Established in 2023 by international singer, actor, and voice teacher Martin Bakari, the $1000 award will be granted annually to one YS High School student showing great promise in the performing arts. There will also be a $200 encouragement award granted annually in the name of his endlessly supportive mother Maria Bakari. Mr. Bakari is an alumnus of Mills Lawn School, McKinney Middle School, YS High School, Friends Music Camp, YS  Kids Playhouse, Boston University, and the Juilliard School.