LYNN-The Lynn Community Health Center?s Khmer American Youth in Action (KAYA) program held its second annual Youth Recognition Ceremony last week.The project provides opportunities for Lynn?s Cambodian youth to develop a strong and positive cultural identity, develop healthy habits and study skills, build positive peer relationships and become involved in community service.Over 50 youth and adults were in attendance. KAYA youth spearheaded the organizing, setup and content of the event. All participating youth were recognized for their involvement in after school and community service activities. Youth received awards for demonstrating especially strong senses of Community, Pride, Commitment and Leadership throughout the year. Several youth presented “teach-backs” on topics such as community; causes, effects and solutions of gang violence; and Khmer Classical Dance.Among the honorees were Pickering Middle School eighth-grader Ronika Tran, 13, who was recognized for her excellent attendance, helpful and caring nature and frequent involvement in community events beyond normal KAYA meeting times. She received this year?s Community Award, which is given to a youth who helps with community events, is a positive contributor to the culture of the group, and is quick to volunteer with group tasks.Breed Middle School eighth-grader Sochenda Eav, 16, was recognized for her active involvement in Khmer cultural activities and leadership in performing Khmer classical dance with the Apsara Dance Troupe for multiple community audiences. She received this year?s Pride Award, which is given to a youth who shows an interest in learning and helping others learn about Khmer culture and history, demonstrates a positive relationship to Khmer culture and to other cultures, and demonstrates an interest in issues important to the Khmer community.Pickering Middle School sixth-grader Bryan Sang, 11, was recognized for his visible growth as a team player over the course of the year, his excellent attendance and participation is group activities, and his willingness to do his part to improve group activities, such as bringing his own basketball when the group lost theirs. He received this year?s Commitment Award, which is given to a youth who has excellent attendance and participation, shows an ability to follow through with responsibilities taken and shows a long term interest in the success of the program.Lynn Vocational Technical Institute freshman Seyla Nou, 15, was recognized for being an excellent role model to younger youth, taking initiative on projects, providing valuable feedback to staff as the program grows, and his consistently exceptional integrity and willingness to take responsibility. He received this year?s Leadership Award, which is given to a youth who takes initiative and leadership in group activities and projects, works to include others in activities, is a good role model to other youth, and handles responsibility well.Gardy Jean-Francois of Mayor Kennedy?s office and Rose Mary Sargent of Congressman John Tierney?s office were in attendance and Sargent gave award recipients congressional certificates to recognize their achievements.The program is jointly offered by LCHC, Harvard Program in Refugee Trauma, the Lynn YMCA and Catholic Charities North with support from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, the United Fund of Lynn, and the U.S. Office of Refugee Resettlement. It has been in operation since January 2009 in its current form but builds on years of work with Cambodian teens by HPRT and LCHC.