[Noozhawk’s note: One in a series on the Santa Ynez Valley Foundation’s 2024 Champions of the Valley who will be honored for their volunteerism and community service Oct. 13 at Rancho Carmina in Los Olivos. Click here for more information, or click here to purchase tickets online.]
Three exceptional young individuals — Lizbeth Ortiz Aguilera, Rafael Beleski and Emma Tesdahl — have been named 2024 Youth Community Champions by the Santa Ynez Valley Foundation.
“These three remarkable teens represent the future of our community,” said Chris Urquidez, the foundation’s board president. “Through their passion, dedication and volunteer work, they have already made a meaningful difference.
“Their contributions remind us that the power to inspire change knows no age, and their commitment to helping others sets an example for us all.”
Lizbeth Ortiz Aguilera
Lizbeth Ortiz Aguilera is making waves with her unwavering commitment to community service and academic excellence.
A Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo freshman and Santa Ynez Valley Union High School graduate, Lizbeth embodies the spirit of volunteerism that makes her community such a special place.
From a young age, Lizbeth’s passion for science and agriculture set her on a path toward becoming an equine veterinarian. But it’s her dedication to giving back that truly sets her apart.
Throughout her high school years, Lizbeth immersed herself in a variety of activities — from Future Farmers of America to the National Honor Society, from the AVID program to the Organization of Latinos and Americans — all while maintaining an impressive GPA.
Her impact in the community is perhaps most evident in her work with Bethania Lutheran Church’s food distribution program.
Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Lizbeth has been a constant presence at the weekly distributions, assisting with everything from packing produce to translating for Spanish-speaking families.
Linda Marzullo, the program coordinator, praises Lizbeth’s reliability and initiative, calling her “an example of a first-generation immigrant who outshines all of those around her.”
But Lizbeth’s service doesn’t stop there. She’s volunteered with Santa Ynez Valley People Helping People, at the annual Old Santa Ynez Days Rodeo and for the Fulfill-A-Wish Christmas program.
Her leadership roles in FFA and other school organizations have allowed her to mentor younger students and develop crucial skills.
For Lizbeth, volunteerism is more than just a way to build a résumé.
“It allows me to give back to the community that has helped shape who I am,” she explained.
“There’s a deeply rewarding feeling that comes from knowing my efforts, no matter how small, can help make a stronger and more compassionate community.”
Rafael Beleski
A new freshman at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, Rafael Beleski embodies the American dream as the first in his family to attend a four-year college.
Born to Brazilian immigrants and blessed with an identical twin brother, Rafael’s journey is a testament to the power of hard work, community service and unwavering ambition.
Growing up, “futebol” was more than just a game for Rafael; it was a way of life. His passion for soccer led him to play at both club and varsity levels throughout his time at Santa Ynez Valley Union High School, instilling in him the values of teamwork and perseverance.
These qualities would serve him well in his various volunteer roles, from coaching youth sports to mentoring fellow students through the AVID program at Santa Ynez High.
Rafael’s commitment to his community shines through in his diverse volunteer work. From distributing food with Santa Ynez Valley People Helping People to caring for animals at the Santa Ynez Valley Humane Society, he has consistently sought ways to make a positive impact.
His involvement extended to supporting local events like the Santa Barbara Wine Country Half-Marathon and bike races, where his enthusiasm and organizational skills ensured their success.
Balancing his academic pursuits, work commitments and volunteer activities, Rafael has demonstrated remarkable time management skills.
Working for his father and in local restaurants not only taught him valuable life lessons but also helped him save for his college journey.
As Rafael sets his sights on aerospace engineering at Cal Poly, he carries with him the hopes and dreams of his family and community.
His goal to make advancements in engineering and aerospace reflects not just personal ambition, but a desire to push boundaries and create a better future for all.
Emma Tesdahl
Emma Tesdahl has been quietly making waves through her exceptional commitment to community service and personal growth.
Born and raised in the Santa Ynez Valley, Emma’s journey is a testament to the power of dedication, diverse interests and a strong sense of civic duty.
Emma’s passion for service began early, inspired by her family’s active involvement in their church and community.
This foundation led her to become a founding member of Scout Troop 007, the first female Scout troop in the valley. Her scouting journey culminated in earning the prestigious Eagle Scout rank, a feat that showcases her leadership and perseverance.
Her Eagle Scout project, creating a reusable light installation for the Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden’s annual Holiday Lights Festival, exemplifies her innovative spirit and desire to leave a lasting impact on her community.
This installation, the first public contribution to the event, is expected to bring joy to visitors for years to come.
Emma’s volunteerism extends far beyond scouting. At Santa Ynez Valley Presbyterian Church, she’s a familiar face at the annual Vacation Bible School, Safety Town program and Sewing Camp.
Her involvement in these programs demonstrates not only her commitment to service but also her diverse skill set — from teaching children about safety to repairing sewing machines.
“As a Christian, I have always felt that serving others is an important duty,” she said.
Despite her busy schedule of community service, Emma nurtures a variety of personal interests. She plays piano and harp, and has recently begun teaching both instruments.
Her creative side shines through her love for writing, drawing and even SFX makeup.
Emma’s practical skills are equally impressive, having raised chickens since she was 7 and currently working as an adventure course guide and grocery store bagger.
Looking to the future, Emma has set her sights on higher education. Currently attending Allan Hancock College, she aspires to transfer to UC Santa Barbara to pursue a degree in Classics with an emphasis in Language and Literature.
Her goal? To become a Latin teacher, combining her love for ancient languages with her passion for education.
Emma’s journey from a young volunteer to an Eagle Scout and aspiring educator is a shining example of how early exposure to community service can shape a person’s life path.
Her story inspires us all to find ways to serve our communities while pursuing our passions and dreams.
Champions of the Valley
Since 1995, the Santa Ynez Valley Foundation has been honoring exceptional local volunteers whose tireless community commitment enriches the Santa Ynez Valley and Los Alamos, their residents and a wide range of local organizations.
This year’s Champions of the Valley honorees are Charlotte Dicke Becerra, Dave Bemis, Donna Hinsbeeck, Ann Foxworthy Lewellen, and Debra and Brad Vidro.
Youth Community Champions are Lizbeth Ortiz Aguilera, Rafael Beleski and Emma Tesdahl.
Sherry Musgrove will be honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award and the late David Crosby will be honored with the Stuart C. Gildred Senior Visionary Award.
The awards will be presented at 4 p.m. Oct. 13 at Rancho Carmina in Los Olivos. Click here for more information, or click here to purchase tickets online.
The Champions of the Valley celebration is sponsored by U.S. Bank Private Wealth Management, the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians, the Ann Jackson Family Foundation, Noozhawk, The Landsby, Allan Hancock College, Visit the Santa Ynez Valley and Montecito Bank & Trust.
The honorees were chosen by a panel of foundation board members and former honorees, based on nominations made by the community.
The honorees each receive a $1,000 grant to support a nonprofit organization of their choice. The Youth Community Champions each receive a $1,000 scholarship to further their education.
Santa Ynez Valley Foundation
The Santa Ynez Valley Foundation is dedicated to a mission centered around grant-making, extending financial support and resources to a diverse array of local organizations and initiatives in the Santa Ynez and Los Alamos valleys.
The grants are strategically channeled into key sectors, including health and human services, support for seniors, arts and culture, youth development, and education.
The foundation also administers a robust College Scholarship Program designed to empower ambitious college-bound local students.
More than 60 students are beneficiaries of this program, receiving scholarships to facilitate their pursuit of higher education and, in turn, contributing to the overall advancement of the community.
