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Youth of the Year

BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS' SIGNATURE EFFORT TO FOSTER A NEW GENERATION OF LEADERS

What began as a grassroots effort in 1947 to recognize youth leadership has grown into Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s premier leadership development program. Today, Youth of the Year empowers young people across the country—and here in South Central Tennessee—to find their voice, strengthen their character, and build a plan for their future.

At Boys & Girls Clubs of South Central Tennessee, the program runs annually at each Club site, engaging hundreds of members across Maury and Giles Counties.

  • Youth of the Month – A monthly recognition program celebrating outstanding leadership

  • Junior Youth of the Year – A readiness track preparing younger members for future leadership

  • Youth of the Year – A competitive, high-impact development program for teens

Each year, Club-level winners advance to compete at the state level, and potentially nationally, for the coveted Youth of the Year title. These events are judged by respected local and state leaders and come with scholarship opportunities and other impactful rewards—both financial and personal.

At its core, Youth of the Year is more than a competition—it’s a transformation. It provides a platform for teens to be seen, heard, and supported as they grow into the leaders of tomorrow.

MEET OUR YOUTH OF THE YEAR 2026 WINNER - MARIELA D.

Selected for her leadership, resilience, and determination to use her voice to uplift others, Mariela D. was chosen as Boys & Girls Clubs of South Central Tennessee’s 2026 Youth of the Year from a group of seven outstanding finalists representing Maury and Giles Counties.

When Mariela first joined the Boys & Girls Club, she wasn’t sure she would fit in. What she found instead was a safe, welcoming place where she felt accepted, encouraged, and supported by caring adults who believed in her potential. Through her time at the Columbia Teen Center, Mariela grew in confidence and discovered the power of sharing her story. She credits the Club—and the mentorship of Teen Center staff—with helping her step outside her comfort zone, strengthen her leadership skills, and realize that her voice matters.

Mariela is enrolled in the Collegiate Academy, participates in Beta Club, and is a dedicated member of her school’s marching band. Inspired by her experiences, she hopes to continue advocating for young people who feel unheard and to lead with empathy, courage, and compassion.

We are proud to congratulate Mariela on being named our 2026 Youth of the Year and look forward to cheering her on as she represents Boys & Girls Clubs of South Central Tennessee at the Summit for Tennessee’s Youth this spring.

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Youth of the Year

CULTIVATING TOMORROW’S LEADERS: YOUTH OF THE YEAR AT BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF AMERICA

For more than 75 years, the Youth of the Year program has been Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s signature effort to foster a new generation of leaders, fully prepared to live and lead in a diverse, global and integrated world economy. In the 21st-century world and workplace, leadership skills such as communication, goal setting, and teamwork are essential for everyone – especially young people preparing to meet the challenges of adolescence and adulthood. These amazing young people represent the voice and spirit and hope of America!

Youth of the Year

BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF AMERICA RESOURCES

What is Youth of the Year?

Youth of the Year is Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s premier leadership development program. At BGCSCTN, it recognizes and develops youth who demonstrate leadership, character, academic achievement, and commitment to service.

Who can participate in the Youth of the Year program?

Any active teen Club member demonstrating leadership, dedication, and character can be nominated. Each Club site across Maury and Giles Counties runs its own selection process annually.

Is there additional fees to participate in Youth of the Year?

No, Youth of the Year is a program open to all active Club members and is free of charge

What do participants do in the program?

Participants receive mentorship, leadership training, academic support, and public speaking opportunities. They also complete activities like community service, resume-building, and speech writing to prepare for competitions.

What is the competition process like?

Yes. Club, state, and national winners are eligible for scholarships and other financial and leadership-related opportunities.

Are there scholarships or awards?

Yes, Youth of the Year winners receive financial stipends, college support, and access to valuable internship opportunities.

What kinds of skills do youth gain from this program?

Participants build confidence, public speaking skills, self-efficacy, goal setting, emotional resilience, and real-world leadership experience.

How can I support or sponsor Youth of the Year?

Community members and organizations can support by donating, volunteering as mentors or judges, or sponsoring events and scholarships. Contact us at info@bgcsctn.org or visit bgcsctn.org to learn more.

Youth of the Year

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