The City Council and the Human Relations Commission of Winston-Salem have recognized two residents as recipients of the 2026 Martin Luther King Jr. Young Dreamers Award.
The award is given to young adults between 18 and 40 who have made a significant impact on people who may be overlooked or disadvantaged in the community. This year’s honorees are Victor Aparicio and Corey McCann.
Aparicio was selected for his leadership in promoting equity, economic opportunity, and community empowerment within Winston-Salem’s Latino community. Through his work with the Expande Business Program, he has mentored over 350 Latino entrepreneurs by providing education, coaching, and access to funding and networks for those historically underserved or marginalized. His efforts have contributed to launching sustainable businesses, creating jobs, and securing grants, investments, and municipal contracts.
McCann received recognition for his leadership in fostering peace, unity, and youth empowerment in Winston-Salem. As founder of Rally Up Winston-Salem, he works to prevent youth violence by offering mentorship and positive alternatives for young people. His approach is described as compassionate leadership with a commitment to uplifting the next generation by turning hope into action and inspiring lasting community change.
“The Young Dreamers Award recognizes two emerging or proven young adult city residents between the ages of 18 and 40 who have made a tangible difference in the lives of those who otherwise might have been overlooked, ignored or disadvantaged,” according to city officials.
“The Human Relations Commission established the Young Dreamers Award in 2009 to encourage young adults to participate in philanthropic, altruistic community involvement that is in the spirit of how Martin Luther King Jr. lived and encouraged others to live.”
Winston-Salem operates under a City Council system with eight members representing wards alongside a mayor elected citywide. The council holds authority over local laws, budgets, and taxes (official website). The municipal government oversees public services within its boundaries in North Carolina (official website), supporting economic development by aiding businesses—including minority enterprises—and fostering overall community growth (official website).
