Explorers Awarded for Unique Experiences

The Merze Tate Explorers used their media skills to share how Sonya Hollins has made an impact on their lives. As Hollins introduces the youth to amazing career and college exploration through media and travel, students say they treasure these experiences that jumpstart them to find their passion.

Explorers founder Sonya Bernard-Hollins recently was recognized for her work in the field of innovative programs with the Kalamazoo Metropolitan NAACP Vanguard Award and the Michigan Afterschool Partnership’s Mary Sutton Leadership Award.

Hollins was presented with the Mary Sutton Leadership Award from the Michigan Afterschool Partnership (MASP) during the organization’s virtual conference on January 26, 2022, with hundreds attending online.

“This is truly an honor to have students take the initiative to create a media tribute to the work I have done for nearly 15 years. You never understand the impact your work has on students until they do something like this. I am honored beyond words,” said Hollins.

Watch the video submission by Explorers that was shared during the conference award presentation.

Explorers Alayna and Nya Kuhn helped create a video tribute to Sonya Hollins in honor of her receiving the Mary Sutton Leadership Award from the Michigan Afterschool Partnership organization. The award was presented virtually on January 26.