The North American Division (NAD) Caring Heart Award for Christian Service recognizes senior academy students selected by their school who exemplify Christ-centered service through their commitment to helping others, sharing their faith, and making a positive impact in their communities. Recipients receive a $500 scholarship sponsored by their union conference, along with an engraved Bible and commemorative plaque provided by the NAD Office of Education.
The Atlantic Union Conference is pleased to recognize the following recipients of the 2025–2026 Caring Heart Award. The comments below are submitted by their schools and reflect the qualities that have distinguished these students as examples of Christlike service.
PEDRO DONAVIN DURRANT | BERMUDA INSTITUTE
Born in Bermuda, Pedro is now completing his senior year and has attended the Bermuda Institute since kindergarten, where he has been recognized for his academic excellence through induction into both the Junior Honor Society and the Honors Society.
In school, Pedro has taken on several leadership roles, serving as Deputy Head Boy, class president, and parliamentarian for the Student Association. He was also crowned Courtesy King at his high school banquet, reflecting his character, respectfulness, and positive influence among his peers.
Pedro is actively involved in athletics, participating in track and field with the Pacers Running Club, where he competes in hurdles, and playing volleyball. Beyond sports, he plays an important role in his church community as a junior deacon and a member of the audiovisual team. He is also a dedicated member of the Pathfinders club at Hamilton church and is currently working toward earning his Master Guide honor.
In his free time, Pedro enjoys singing, worshipping, and spending time with his friends.
SHANNON MADRAMOOTOO | GREATER NEW YORK ACADEMY
Distinguished herself as an exceptional leader, both within and beyond the classroom. As a senior, she exemplifies maturity, poise, and a deeply rooted love for God that informs her actions and interactions each day.
Throughout her time at Greater New York Academy, Shannon has faithfully served in multiple leadership capacities, including president of the Student Council and treasurer of her class. In each role, she has demonstrated the ability to unite her peers, lead decisively, and prioritize others’ well-being. Her commitment to excellence is evident not only in her academic achievements but also in her character and integrity.
Shannon’s dedication to service extends far beyond her formal responsibilities. Her passion for ministry is clearly reflected in her leadership of the Young Preachers club, where she inspires her peers to step beyond their comfort zones, use their voices to uplift Christ, and deepen their spiritual journeys.
Shannon consistently lives out the principles she shares. In every environment, she reflects Christ’s love through genuine compassion, steadfast dedication, and an unwavering commitment to serving others. She is not only a leader by title, but one whose daily life embodies faith, character, and purpose.
EZRA BENJAMIN | NORTHEASTERN ADVENTIST ACADEMY – BROOKLYN CAMPUS
A dedicated and compassionate student leader at Northeastern Adventist Academy who exemplifies the spirit of Christian service, humility, and spiritual leadership. Serving faithfully as a student chaplain, Ezra has made it his mission to ensure that every student feels seen, valued, and supported. He consistently reaches out to his peers during school hours, after school, and at events, offering encouragement, prayer, and genuine care that reflects the love of Christ.
Ezra’s commitment to ministry extends far beyond the classroom. He actively participates as a lead singer on the praise and worship team, as a media team member, and as a leader in the Canarsie Chiefs Pathfinder club. Through these roles, he contributes meaningfully to worship experiences, youth mentorship, and community outreach. He has also preached at various church programs and for worship services on Education Sabbath, inspiring both youth and adults.
Known among his peers as a unifier, Ezra creates an atmosphere of belonging wherever he goes. He intentionally welcomes new students, builds connections across grade levels, and offers support to those who may feel overlooked. His quiet acts of kindness—such as helping classmates in need, even at personal cost—demonstrate a selfless and Christ-centered heart.
Ezra’s life is a testament to integrity, humility, and unwavering commitment to service. He leads not for recognition, but out of a sincere desire to reflect Christ’s character. His consistent involvement in outreach efforts, including community service initiatives and church programs, highlights his passion for ministry and witnessing.
With a heart devoted to God and a genuine love for people, Ezra embodies the very essence of the Caring Heart Award. His example inspires others to serve, to lead with compassion, and to live a life rooted in faith.
LILIANA LOPEZ | SOUTH LANCASTER ACADEMY
A dedicated student-athlete who consistently strives to do her best in all that she does. She has a strong work ethic, leadership skills, and a caring nature. Lili is a positive role model among her peers and an advocate for doing the right thing. She leads by example, both in and out of the classroom. Through her kindness, determination, and active involvement in school and church activities, she truly makes a positive impact on those around her.
MAEL GAHKINAHE | UNION SPRINGS ACADEMY
In a world where kindness can sometimes feel rare, Mael stands out as a young person whose compassion, humility, and genuine love for others shine brightly every single day. He does not simply perform kind actions when others are watching—caring for people is part of who he is at his core.
What makes Mael truly special is his ability to notice the needs that others often overlook. He pays attention to the student sitting quietly in the corner, the friend carrying a heavy burden, or the person who simply needs someone to believe in them. Mael has an incredible way of making people feel seen, heard, and valued. His kindness is not loud or attention-seeking; it is sincere, intentional, and deeply impactful.
There are students who lead with talent, others who lead with confidence, but Mael leads with the heart. He consistently chooses compassion, even when it is inconvenient. He encourages others when they are discouraged, offers help without being asked, and brings peace into difficult situations. The care he shows flows naturally from a heart that genuinely desires to make life better for those around him.
What is perhaps most remarkable about Mael is the atmosphere he creates wherever he goes. People feel safer around him. They feel respected. They feel important. His presence carries warmth, patience, and understanding in a way that cannot be easily taught. In moments where others may walk away, Mael steps closer. In moments where others may judge, Mael chooses empathy. That kind of character is rare and deserves recognition and celebration.
Mael’s impact reaches far beyond simple acts of kindness. He reminds others that compassion still matters. He demonstrates that strength lies not only in achievement but also in the ability to care deeply for people. His example challenges those around him to be better, kinder, and more thoughtful human beings.
His heart for others is genuine, powerful, and unforgettable. He is not only an excellent candidate for this award; he is the very definition of it.
