Stories of service, music and fellowship filled the Valley of the Flowers United Church of Christ on Sunday as community members gathered for the 11th annual Lompoc Valley Peace Prize ceremony.

The event honored a slate of nominees whose work promotes peace in daily life, from advocacy and service to fostering harmony across the community.

The 2025 peace prize was presented to Dr. Ahmad Nooristani for his work with Savie Health, which provides free healthcare access to local residents.

“Peace cannot happen when people in our community are sick,” Nooristani said, encouraging kindness, care and generosity as the foundation for a peaceful society. Past recipient Yasmin Dawson reflected on the spirit of the prize before announcing Nooristani as the new honoree.

Other nominees included:

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