WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (CBS12) — Florida Power & Light brought 10 college-bound students from South Florida one step closer to their dreams Saturday after surprising them with $20,000 scholarships.

Florida Power & Light Company awarded the students the NextEra Energy Scholarship for Students in Science, Engineering, Communication, Mathematics and Enrichment, recognizing their academic achievements and dedication to STEM education.

The scholarship recipients from Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties were honored during a celebration at FPL’s Manatee Lagoon, where they were surrounded by their families, mentors and supporters.

See also: The Viking ‘Ro!’ takes Miami as Norway chases World Cup history

For many of the students, the award represents more than just financial assistance — it’s an opportunity to continue pursuing their goals and dreams after high school.

“Congrats to all the other recipients, and I hope that the future students that apply to this get it,” said Anjan Kumar Sangam, a 2026 SECME Scholarship winner. “And try your best out there! And also, thank you to FPL for giving this scholarship. It helps a lot of students who go through things like me, who now can pay for college and things of that sort.”

FPL said the program is part of its ongoing commitment to supporting STEM education, workforce development and preparing the next generation of innovators and leaders.

The company’s scholarship program helps students continue their education in fields that are expected to play a major role in the future workforce.