Pictured: Suriya Khong (left) with Wes Roberts, Executive Publisher of SRQ Magazine. Photo by Dan Wagner, Wagner Visuals.

Each year, SRQ Media invites the community to nominate individuals with hearts of giving who have made a significant impact with local nonprofit organizations—from volunteers and board members to individual staff members and donors. This year, attendees were thrilled to be together as we recognized these individuals at our annual Giving Coast and Good Hero Awards luncheon and panel discussion on December 10 at Michael’s on East in Sarasota. In the coming weeks, we are happy to feature each of the ten honorees in our Wednesday Philanthropic edition of SRQ Daily.

Today, we are recognizing Suriya Khong, who has created innovative programs in college and career preparation, leadership, entrepreneurship and advocacy to help students not only discover their passions but also prepare for their futures. At Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties, Suriya mentors teens, building their confidence and showing them they are capable of greatness. Her nominator said that from the moment Suriya joined the organization in 2017, she has been a driving force for change. “What began as a department with one dedicated staff member has grown under her direction into a robust team of diverse professionals now serving hundreds of local youth each year with innovative, life-changing programs, some of which aren’t found anywhere else. Suriya Khong is more than a leader. From the mountain of strategic work she regularly accomplishes to the profound impact on our teens through direct mentorship.” Congratulations Suriya!

Pictured: Suriya Khong (left) with Wes Roberts, Executive Publisher of SRQ Magazine. Photo by Dan Wagner, Wagner Visuals.