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Shaped by the Club, Driven by Purpose: Meet Youth of the Year Finalist, Ericka 

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At Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida, we are in the business of shaping GREAT futures — and Ericka’s story captures that mission beautifully. 

A proud 11th-grade student at Evans High School, Ericka has been a member of our Walt Disney World Clubhouse for 12 years. Over that time, she has grown from a curious young girl into a confident leader, compassionate mentor, and fierce advocate for literacy and youth mental health. Her journey is a testament to the life-changing power of the community, opportunity, and support found through our blue doors, and we couldn’t be prouder to call her one of our 2025 Youth of the Year finalists. 

From her earliest days at the Club, Ericka found more than just after-school activities. She found a second home — a place where her voice mattered, her ideas were nurtured, and her potential was unlimited. Through programs like Smart Girls, Mental Health MythBusters, and the 21st Century Learning Initiative, Ericka discovered her love for advocacy and leadership. Whether welcoming new members, mentoring younger peers, or traveling to Washington, D.C. to speak to lawmakers about youth mental health, she has used every opportunity to serve and uplift others. 

Ericka’s personal story is one of resilience. As the daughter of Caribbean immigrants, she has often had to navigate language and cultural barriers — acting as the bridge between her family and the world around her. Her experiences shaped a deep commitment to literacy, especially for children like her who grow up in homes where English isn’t the primary spoken language. Today, she volunteers in literacy programs at her Club, helping other kids find their confidence and voice — just as she once did. 

Ericka joined her fellow Youth of the Year finalists on stage to emcee our Celebrate the Children Gala, where she demonstrated presence, passion, and leadership far beyond her years. Watching her command the stage and represent her Club with such grace reminded us all of why we do what we do. She is a shining example of the values at the heart of our organization: resilience, empathy, determination, and service. 

Ericka dreams of becoming a marketing manager — a career path that blends her creativity, strategic thinking, and desire to influence positive change. With a strong GPA and an even stronger sense of purpose, she is already well on her way. 

We are proud. We are inspired. And most of all, we are grateful to have been part of Ericka’s journey, to witness her growth, and to support the GREAT future that lies ahead. 

Ericka, thank you for showing us what’s possible when young people are given the tools, encouragement, and community they need to thrive. We can’t wait to see the amazing impact you’ll continue to make on the world.

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A Shining Example: Ci’Miya’s Journey Through the Blue Doors of BGCCF

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From the moment Ci’Miya walked through the blue doors of the Cocoa Branch of Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida, she began a journey marked by resilience, growth, and purpose. Now a high school senior with aspirations to pursue a career in radiology, Ci’Miya is not only one of our 2025 Youth of the Year finalists, she is a shining example of the values that define our Clubs: leadership, compassion, accountability, and service. 

Ci’Miya’s journey with us began during one of the most difficult times in her life, following the tragic loss of her older brother. In the midst of her grief, it was her younger brother who noticed a new Club opening in their community and encouraged their mom to sign them up. That decision would become a turning point in Ci’Miya’s life. From the very first visit—where she was welcomed by bright colors, creative spaces, and caring staff, Ci’Miya knew the Club was something special. It was a safe haven where she could begin to heal, explore, grow, and thrive. 

Early on, Ci’Miya struggled with confidence in school and social settings. After being held back in fourth grade, she faced bullying and self-doubt. But it was through the support and guidance of Club mentors like Ms. RaQuel and Mr. Anwar that Ci’Miya began to rediscover her voice. They reminded her that her success was within her control — and their belief in her led her to believe in herself. Slowly but surely, she reclaimed her self-worth and began building the foundation of the confident, articulate young leader we know today.  

As she entered her teen years, Ci’Miya found a new outlet for growth through our Keystone program. There, she flourished as a student leader — serving as Vice President, Treasurer, and now President of her Club’s Keystone chapter. Through community service projects like “Kids Night Out” and book donations to young parents, she demonstrated what it means to lead with empathy and purpose. Her advocacy work and creativity have empowered her to speak up for others, mentor her peers, and effect meaningful change. 

This year, Ci’Miya’s journey came full circle when she joined her fellow Youth of the Year finalists to emcee our annual Celebrate the Children gala. Standing on stage, poised and passionate, she represented not only her Club but the spirit of perseverance and excellence that defines each of the over 12,000 youth and teens we serve across Central Florida. 

In her own words, “Without the Club, where would I be?” For Ci’Miya, the Club is more than an afterschool program — it’s home. A place where she learned to navigate grief, build lifelong friendships, find her voice, and unlock her potential. It’s where she learned that helping others is not just a value, but a way of life. 

Ci’Miya’s story is just one example of the many young lives transformed by walking through our blue doors. Her journey stands as a powerful testament to the impact of academic support, enriching opportunities, and the guidance of positive adult role models found at our Clubs. We are incredibly proud of her accomplishments and honored to be part of her journey. Her future is filled with promise, and we have no doubt that she will continue to impact the world around her — just as she has impacted all of us. 

Congratulations, Ci’Miya. We are cheering you on every step of the way.

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A Voice for the Future: Celebrating Ale’jah, 2025 Youth of the Year Finalist 

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At Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida, we believe in the potential of every child who walks through our blue doors. Ale’jah, a high school senior from our Leesburg Branch and one of our 2025 Youth of the Year finalists, is living proof of what’s possible when young people are empowered through academic support, extracurricular opportunities, and the life-changing guidance of a nurturing community. Read her story to see how the Club has helped shape her into the remarkable leader she is today. 

Since joining the Club at age six, Ale’jah has been on a remarkable journey of self-discovery and growth. What began as an effort to find belonging after experiencing severe bullying at school quickly became a transformational experience. Through programs like Smart Girls and Money Matters, Ale’jah found not only her voice but also her confidence, leadership skills, and her vision for a GREAT future. 

Ale’jah’s passion for advocacy and healthcare runs deep. An aspiring OB/GYN, she is deeply committed to improving maternal health outcomes for African American women and fighting for medical equity. From job-shadowing physicians at the FSU College of Medicine Summer Institute to conducting an AP Research project on African American maternal care, her academic and extracurricular efforts speak volumes about her drive to create lasting, positive change in our community and in the world. 

But what makes Ale’jah truly special is her ability to turn adversity into empowerment. Her early struggles with bullying didn’t break her — they built her. With guidance from caring mentors like Club Director Mrs. Tonya Porter-Connelly and staff members Ms. Rosalyn Castile and Mrs. Christine Brooks, Ale’jah developed the confidence to speak at major events like the Black & White Ball, the Blue Door Ball, and our Celebrate the Children gala, where she joined fellow Youth of the Year finalists as a poised and inspiring emcee. 

Ale’jah is not just a future medical professional — she is a leader, a visionary, and a driving force behind meaningful conversations and progress. Her leadership roles in organizations like HOSA and FBLA have allowed her to serve others while developing her own unique voice and vision. Ale’jah believes in adapting programs to meet the diverse needs of young people across the country, an approach that reflects the very heart of our mission. 

We are endlessly proud of Ale’jah’s accomplishments and inspired by her commitment to service, advocacy, and excellence. She embodies the core values of our organization: leadership, character, and a relentless pursuit of a GREAT future — for herself and for others. 

Ale’jah, thank you for allowing us to be part of your journey. We are honored to support you, cheer for you, and watch as you rise to incredible heights. Your story is just beginning, and we cannot wait to see the lives you will touch and the change you will create. 

Keep shining.

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Celebrating a Young Leader with a Great Future: Annabel Honored as Heart of Florida United Way Change Maker Junior 

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We are incredibly proud to share the exciting news that Annabel, a dedicated member of our Walt Disney World Clubhouse in Pine Hills, has been recognized as this year’s Heart of Florida United Way Change Maker Junior! Annabel’s achievement is a testament to her passion, hard work, and unwavering commitment to bettering our community. 

A Beacon of Hope and Inspiration 

Annabel’s journey as a young leader is nothing short of inspiring. Wise beyond her years, she dedicates her time and energy to causes that truly matter. Her advocacy for mental health awareness and her tireless efforts to combat food insecurity are making a tangible impact in the lives of those around her. 

Her passion for creating positive change radiates through every project she takes on. Whether she’s organizing events, volunteering her time, or educating her peers, Annabel’s influence is felt far and wide. She embodies our core values at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida and sets an example that all can admire and emulate. 

A proud Jamie Merrill, President & CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida with our Change Maker, Annabell
A proud Jamie Merrill, President & CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida with our Change Maker, Annabell

About the Change Maker Impact Awards 

The Change Maker Junior award is part of the Annual Change Maker Impact Awards presented by Heart of Florida United Way. These awards honor individuals and organizations that make a significant and lasting impact in Central Florida. The Change Maker Junior category celebrates the youngest leaders — those under 21 — who are using their creativity, determination, and passion to drive meaningful change in their communities. 

Heart of Florida United Way works to build a brighter future for every person in Central Florida through collaboration with nonprofits, public agencies, and private businesses. This event is a beautiful reminder of the power of community and the incredible impact of those who ‘Live United.’ 

Looking to the Future 

We are beyond grateful to have Annabel as part of our Club community, and we know this is just the beginning of her journey with a Great Future ahead! Her light is one that will continue to shine brightly, and we can’t wait to see all the incredible things she will accomplish in the future. 

Congratulations once again to Annabel and all of this year’s winners. It was truly inspiring to be surrounded by so many Change Makers, each contributing to a stronger, more vibrant Central Florida.