2026 CYS Scholarship Award Winners
We are proud to offer scholarships for graduating high school seniors who have been CYS program alumni as they go off to college. We are honored to have been part of their journey so far, and wish for their continued success. Congratulations to this year’s winners.
Braxton Kimura
"CYS gave me a strong sense of community and helped shape my cultural identity through shared experiences beyond basketball. It was a place of development, friendship, fun, and growth that has stayed with me and continues to inspire me for years to come."
College: University of California, Berkeley
Major: Engineering
Kaitlyn Kubo
“For me, the program was not just about sports; it was about learning discipline, building character, and staying connected to a community that values growth and cultural continuity.”
College: Santa Clara University
Major: Biology
Adyson Emi Mitchell
“CYS has allowed me to experience the cultural values of the Japanese-American community where everyone is connected. You don’t need to be related to be family. It has taught me a new perspective of sportsmanship among the community, and the value of never giving up. CYS is a unique organization that helps develop important skills of family, sportsmanship, and vigor within a person, while also allowing opportunities or representation of cultural values of the community.”
College: University of California, Santa Barbara
Major: Pre-Chemistry
Kathryn Tzetseng Tanaka
“CYS has taught me the importance of mental strength and enduring friendships, two values intrinsic to Asian culture. I am so grateful for the community that has poured so much into me. On the surface level, CYS is a place that emphasizes the joy brought on by participating in sports, but it also plays a key role in the development of emotional growth and steadfast connections to teammates and heritage.”
College: Smith College
Major: Engineering Sciences
Mason Young
"Being a part of CYS has given me the confidence and support to express myself culturally, pursue my academic goals, serve my community, and lead with my heart."
College: University of California, Berkeley
Major: Bioengineering