Dear PPAGLA Scholarship Fund:

I have had a hard time articulating the impact PPAGLA has had on my young photo career. I didn't grow up around photographers and never really had any formal mentors. For the last seven years, I've been riding on a dream to become a photographer and was resolute to do anything to make it happen. 

This was until last year's PPAGLA awards, where for the first time industry professionals that I have looked up to for years recognized my work. And then again this year, being recognized by the very photographers that I try to emulate when I'm in the field has been one of the greatest privileges of my life. 

I cannot thank the PPAGLA board and members enough for their role in making my dreams come true. Thank you for your donations, Nikon for the camera sponsorships, and for creating a space for photography in Los Angeles. You have seen something in my work when others haven't and, for that, I am forever thankful. 

I look forward to continuing to be a part of the PPAGLA now as a professional member, and if there is ever anything I can do to help the PPAGLA, please let me know. 

All the best,

Yannick Peterhans

Student Photojournalist of the Year

Dear PPAGLA Scholarship Fund:

Thanks to the Press Photographers Association of Greater Los Angeles and its members, for recognition as the runner up for the Student Still Photojournalist of the Year, and for the donations that support the Scholarship Fund. The summer of 2022 was when I discovered photojournalism was the direction I wanted my photography to go. When I received the news that I was, a finalist I was shocked. 

I am still learning, but I am passionate and eager to learn about the world. During the past few weeks, since receiving this award, I have been thinking about doing more spot news and what ‘bigger’ more challenging stories I could cover. That’s the great thing about this award, it is encouragement to keep going, and it will help fund my next project.

Thanks again,

Caylo Seals

Runner-up Student Photojournalist of the Year

Dear PPAGLA Scholarship Fund,
When I was a little girl, my parents always told me “Echale ganas mija” or “try hard mija!” My parents didn’t go to college and knew little about how much it would cost to attend. Fortunately, opportunities like this have funded part of my tuition and helped me continue my college career without the added stress of financial debt. 

Attending the PPAGLA Awards alongside working professionals who share a common passion was an honor. As a Latina journalist from a low-income background, it feels gratifying to see myself thrive in a distinguished profession that wants to diversify its workforce. Thank you for recognizing the stories that I love to capture. 

Best,

Rebeca Loyola

Student Video Photojournalist of the Year

Dear PPAGLA Scholarship Fund,

I am writing to express my appreciation for the scholarship award given. I am immensely grateful for this opportunity to attend the reception at the Zimmerman Automobile museum and be among some of the most talented individuals in the photography and videography industry. This award holds a great significance in my life and will undoubtedly contribute to my growth as a journalist.

Winning the Student Videographer of the Year award last year was an incredible honor, and being invited back this year as the runner-up is a true testament to my hard work and dedication. I am proud to be recognized among the best in the industry and am grateful for the platform that PPAGLA and Nikon have provided for me to showcase my skills. This scholarship award is an investment in my future, and I promise to use it to continue pursuing my passion for visual storytelling and make a positive impact in the journalism industry.

Thank you once again for this incredible opportunity.

Sincerely,

Brenda Elizondo

Runner-up Student Video Photojournalist of the Year