Young Heroes®

Thank you to all who submitted a nomination!

A Young Hero is defined as an exceptional young person who has excelled in academics, given significantly of themselves through public service, overcome personal adversity, exhibited extraordinary heroism, or inspired others through their deeds and strength of character to become better students, persons, and citizens.

LPB’s 2025 Louisiana Young Heroes are:

Jessica Anderson of Youngsville (Junior at Southside High School)
Gabrielle “Gabby” Essex of Natchitoches (Senior at Natchitoches Central High School)
Mateo Guerrero of Bossier City (Senior at Bossier High School)
Jared Lane of St. Francisville (Junior at West Feliciana High School)
William Matthews of Baton Rouge (Senior at Belaire Magnet High School)
Ja’Nika Stanley of Baton Rouge (Senior at Liberty Magnet High School)

Click here to Learn More About the 2025 Young Heroes

Recognition

The Louisiana Young Heroes will receive special awards and recognition for their achievements on Louisiana Young Heroes Day, Monday, April 28, 2025. The Young Heroes will have their stories told on LPB’s weekly news and public affairs program Louisiana: The State We’re In, airing Fridays at 7pm. Look for additional information on this page and follow the Louisiana Young Heroes Facebook page for updates, as well!

GALLERY OF PAST RECIPIENTS

Young Heroes program sponsor list containing the logos for the Gale and Tom Benson Charitable Foundation, the East Baton Rouge Parish Library, Fishman Haygood, Community Coffee, Demco, the U.S. Army, and McDonalds.