On Saturday, Oct. 21, Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta (BGCMA) hosted the 2023 Youth of the Year (YOY) Preliminaries at the John H. Harland Boys & Girls Club. This annual event is a part of our year-round youth development program to name the 2023-2024 Junior Youth of the Year (JTYOY) for our organization. It’s also a first look opportunity for Youth of the Year (YOY) candidates to recite their speeches and hopefully advance as a finalist for our Youth of the Year gala & celebration, which will take place Nov. 10 at the Coca Cola Roxy.
Clubs across Metro Atlanta selected members (ages 15-18) to serve as their YOY representatives and members (ages 12-14) as their JYOY representatives. Club members were chosen based on their academic achievements, community service, and demonstration of leadership abilities in both their Club and community. Candidates from both programs delivered speeches in which they shared their stories of resiliency and self-determination in pursuing their goals, with their Club playing a critical role in their journey.
Over the last two months, 18 YOY candidates and 15 Junior Youth of the Year participants have been attended training workshops led by Teen Engagement Manager Greg Bannister, BGCMA staff, and guest speakers on public speaking, speech writing, and interview skills. They have even received mentorship from professionals in the community. All their hard work has prepared them for YOY Preliminaries.
“It was truly wonderful witnessing all the YOY and JYOY members representing their Clubs on YOY Prelims Day, a day brimming with wonder, excitement, and joy for our deserving members,” said Director of Workforce Readiness Jaleesa Jones.
At the culmination of the event, the judges selected Addison D. from A. Worley Brown Club as the Junior Youth of the Year. Addison will represent the organization at various events throughout the year. Congratulations to Addison and Team AWB!
Congratulations are also in order for the Junior Youth of the Year Runner-Up Tiana L. from Flint River, and Second-Runner-Up Cyanna T. from Whitehead.