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Malachi

A Place to Belong: Malachi’s Journey at Boys & Girls Clubs  

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To the kids we serve, the Club can be many things — a fun place, a safe space, a place to get a hot meal. 

Behind our blue doors, youth and teens find mentors who champion their potential, programs that spark their dreams for the future, and — above all — hope. 

That is exactly what Malachi, 12, has found at the West Orange Branch of Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida when he joined four years ago — and what he looks forward to continuing at his new Club in Winter Garden, the June Family Branch. 

Once shy and unsure, Malachi is now a confident young man who holds his own on the basketball court — even in friendly pick-up games against high school students.  

More importantly, he has found his voice. With the support of caring mentors, like Service Director Shamel Akins, he has learned how to navigate challenges, ask for help, and believe in himself. 

We sat down with Malachi to learn more about his journey at the Club — and what it means to him. 

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Can you share a memorable story from playing basketball at the Club?  
There was a time when Coach Shamel took us to the gym to play against high school students. We won three games in a row!  

So you must be very good at basketball! Did you know your new Club will have a basketball court?  
Yes, I’m excited about that.  

What is your favorite thing to do at the Club?  
Play basketball, meet new people, and play with my friends.  

What is something the Club has helped you with?  
It’s helped me with my math and STEM activities. It’s helped me a lot with my education and also helped me open up more. When I’m stuck on math homework, they help me write down the basics and figure it out. One time we worked through it together because I was too scared to ask at first.  

What are you MOST excited about when your new Club opens?  
Meeting new people, meeting the staff, and having a fun time doing activities with them.  

When you think about being at the Club, what emotions come to mind?  
Happiness. They cheer you up and make you feel good. It also makes you curious — like when big boxes come in and you get to open them. Last summer, they surprised us with a PS5 and let us play it as a reward for good behavior.  

Is there anything else you want to share about your Club?  
They’re really good at teaching you and helping you through situations. They help you move on, cheer you up, and make you happy.  

What are some ways the mentors at the Club show up for you?  
Coach Shamel lets you be yourself. If he sees you not being yourself, he’ll come over and help you figure out what’s going on and give you advice on how to handle it. Sometimes it’s just about having fun — that can help when you’re not feeling like yourself. They really put the “fun” in fun again, especially over the summer.  

If you come in early, they’ll put movies on the TV and give you cereal and milk in case you didn’t eat. They even give you different cereal options.  

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Malachi’s story is one of many that reflect the life-changing impact of Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida. 

It is also a powerful reminder of why expanding access matters. 

The new June Family Branch will ensure that more kids like Malachi have a place to go, mentors who show up, and opportunities to discover their full potential. 

If you are inspired by Malachi’s journey and want to help create more stories like his, we invite you to be part of what comes next. Visit our Winter Garden landing page to learn more about supporting this transformational project through our capital campaign, including naming opportunities that will leave a lasting legacy for generations to come. 

Support Great Futures in Winter Garden
JFB Sponsors
Princesska

Princesska Named 2026 Kiwanis Club of Orlando Foundation Youth of the Year 

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At Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida, leadership isn’t defined by the volume of someone’s voice, but by the impact that voice makes. 

Princesska, a senior at Cypress Creek High School and member of our Taft Branch, has been named the 2026 Kiwanis Club of Orlando Foundation Youth of the Year. 

The highest honor a Club member can receive, this title recognizes teens who demonstrate academic excellence, strong character, service, and exceptional leadership. Princesska represents exactly what happens when young people are given the space, support, and opportunity to grow. 

For Princesska, leadership begins with listening. 

From Club Member to Keystone President 

Princesska’s leadership journey began at her Club, where she developed confidence, adaptability, and responsibility through hands-on experience. As Keystone Club President and junior staff member at the Taft Branch, she doesn’t just hold titles. She creates environments where other teens feel safe to speak, lead, and inevitably grow as she once did. 

“Leadership isn’t about speaking first. It’s about listening with intent,” she shared in her Youth of the Year speech. 

Through service projects, peer mentorship, and leading by example, Princesska has built inclusive spaces where others feel seen, heard, and valued. Her leadership transforms understanding into action. 

Leadership Beyond the Club 

The confidence Princesska developed at the Club expanded into every area of her life. As a high school senior, her résumé reflects both dedication and drive. 

She is: 

  • A four year student athletic trainer 
  • Captain of her Flag Football team 
  • Captain of her Weightlifting team 
  • Public Relations representative for the Black Student Union 
  • A member of the Keeping It Classy Sisterhood Leadership program 

She credits the Club for helping her discover her voice and step fully into leadership roles she once might have hesitated to pursue. 

Her Club gave her more than programs. It gave her belief in herself and her capabilities. 

A Future in Athletic Training and Community Impact 

Princesska plans to attend Valencia College before transferring to University of Central Florida to study kinesiology and pursue her master’s degree in athletic training. 

Her long-term vision goes beyond career success. 

She is committed to creating safe spaces where young people feel empowered to advocate for themselves and others, even before they find their voice. 

As the 2026 Kiwanis Club of Orlando Foundation Youth of the Year, Princesska understands she represents more than herself. She represents the next generation of leaders who lead with action, accountability, and heart. 

What Youth of the Year Represents 

Youth of the Year is the premier leadership recognition program of Boys & Girls Clubs of America. It honors teens who demonstrate academic achievement, service, character, and a commitment to community. 

For Princesska, the title is not about recognition. It is about responsibility. 

It is about ensuring that every young person has access to the same opportunities that shaped her journey. 

That is exactly what Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida strives to do every day for the more than 15,000 youth and teens we serve. 

Support the Next Generation of Leaders 

When you invest in Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida, you invest in teens like Princesska, young leaders who turn opportunity into impact. 

Together, we can continue creating safe spaces where leadership is nurtured, voices are strengthened, and GREAT futures take flight. 

Donate to Invest in GREAT Futures
YOY26

Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida Announces 2026 Kiwanis Club of Orlando Foundation Youth of the Year Finalists

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Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida is proud to announce the six outstanding teens advancing to the Central Florida Title Competition for the 2026 Kiwanis Club of Orlando Foundation Youth of the Year program. 

Youth of the Year is the premier leadership recognition initiative of Boys & Girls Clubs of America, honoring teen Club members who exemplify academic excellence, strong character, leadership, and a deep commitment to service. This year’s finalists reflect the very best of our mission and the life-changing impact behind our blue doors. Each teen demonstrates resilience, purpose, and a powerful vision for their future. 

Throughout this journey, candidates have worked closely with their Club-based Youth of the Year Advisors to prepare for the Central Florida competition. As part of this rigorous and reflective process, each teen completed a comprehensive application package that included three personal essays focused on their Club experience, personal growth, and what matters most to them. Candidates also submitted a cover letter, resume, and two letters of recommendation. Together, these materials challenged finalists to reflect deeply on their leadership experiences, personal stories, and aspirations. 

After a highly competitive and inspiring semifinal round, we are proud to recognize the following finalists advancing to the title competition: 

Alannah (South Lake Branch)
Generously Sponsored by VyStar Credit Union 
Alannah is a determined and visionary leader who finds joy in creativity through art and music while advocating passionately for others. Grounded in integrity and compassion, she believes true leadership is rooted in service and using her voice to uplift those who feel unheard. 

Alannah

Ericka (Walt Disney World Clubhouse) 
Generously Sponsored by Simpkins Family Foundation 
Ericka is a resilient, vision-driven leader with a love for art and dance who has transformed storytelling into a powerful tool for healing and advocacy. Inspired by her Club experience, she is committed to promoting literacy and mental health so others can turn their own challenges into purpose. 

Ericka

Jayla (Joe R. Lee Branch) 
Generously Sponsored by The Gustin Family 
Jayla is a charismatic and ambitious teen who channels her outgoing personality through art, dance, and leadership roles both in and beyond the Club. Whether coaching cheer or serving her community, she leads with authenticity and a deep commitment to ensuring every young person feels seen and valued. 

Jayla

Jaynise (Tupperware Brands Branch) 
Generously Sponsored by Guys with Ties 
Jaynise is a driven community builder who considers the Club her second home and leadership training ground. Through Keystone leadership and service projects, she has found her voice and passion for supporting teens as they navigate stress, growth, and self-confidence. 

Jaynise

Michael (Levy-Hughes Clubhouse) 
Generously Sponsored by Workscapes 
Michael is a purpose-driven mentor who uses sports, music, and service to build confidence and connection among his peers. Shaped by his Club experience, he is committed to creating spaces where young people feel supported, included, and inspired to lead. 

michael

Princesska (Taft Branch) 
Generously Sponsored by BidBuddy 
Princesska is a bold and responsible leader whose passion for sports and community fuels her commitment to inclusivity. A two-time Keystone President, she believes leadership is about creating an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to take action. 

prinsseska

As they move forward, finalists have participated in professional development sessions with trusted community partners, including Dale Carnegie, and sponsors to strengthen their public speaking, interview skills, and leadership presence.  

The teen selected as this year’s Kiwanis Club of Orlando Foundation Youth of the Year will serve as a key ambassador for Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida, including through participation in signature events such as Celebrate the Children, and will represent Central Florida at the State Youth of the Year Competition this spring.  

We extend our sincere gratitude to our Club staff, Youth of the Year Advisors, community partners, families, and judges who continue to uplift and support our teens throughout this transformative experience. 

This Year’s Prestigious Judges Include: 

  • Jim Adamczyk, SEVP / Chief Strategy Officer, Fairwinds 
  • Rick Ahl, CFA, Managing Director, Wealth Advisor, Carnegie Investment Counsel (Kiwanis)    
  • Maurice Allen, World Long Drive Champion, Alumni & Boys and Girls Clubs of America’s Ambassador of Golf 
  • Alecia Collins, Director of Communications and Strategic Partnerships, Florida Lottery      
  • Elisha González, Senior Vice President of Community Affairs, Truist
2026 YOY Sponsor Footer

“Our Patches, Our Stories:” A Creative Journey Led by Bank of America Student Leader Fay Zhao

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This summer, our Levy-Hughes Clubhouse was home to more than just fun and friendship — it became a space for powerful storytelling, thanks to the leadership of Fay Zhao, one of our Bank of America Student Leaders interns. 

Fay spent six weeks working closely with a group of 11 Club members, ages 12–16, on a special two-part creative project: Our Patches, Our Stories. The project invited youth to explore and express their personal stories through digital design and written reflection. 

In the first phase, each Club member designed a custom patch using computer software. These patches represented something deeply meaningful to them. Once designed, the patches were printed and transferred onto real fabric — turning digital dreams into tangible keepsakes. 

During the second phase, Club members wrote personal reflections about their patch designs. These stories were unfiltered, inspiring, and full of heart. 

Fay brought it all together in a beautifully curated digital book, combining each member’s patch and writing with custom-designed pages that reflect their unique voices and personalities. 

👉 Click here to explore Our Patches, Our Stories and experience the creativity and courage of our teens firsthand. 

Thank you to Fay and Bank of America for helping our Club members feel seen, heard, and celebrated. 

OurPatchesOurStoriesDownload
lexi web blog

Finding Her Voice: How One Teen is Creating, Leading, and Inspiring in West Lakes

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For 15-year-old Alexia “Lexi” Sealy, summer break isn’t just about downtime — it’s about possibility. It’s about connection, creativity, and finding new ways to make a difference. 

A rising sophomore at Jones High School, Lexi is a familiar face at our Bradley-Otis Family Branch. But for her, the Club is more than a place to hang out — it’s where she’s found her rhythm, her purpose, and a sense of direction for her future. 

Summer Energy and Foam-Filled Fun 

From splash days to late-night teen parties, Lexi dives headfirst into summer programming — especially when there’s a foam pit involved. 

“I especially love it when there’s a foam pit,” she laughs, the kind of joy that instantly spreads. 

But what keeps her coming back goes far beyond the summer fun. For Lexi, the Club is where fun meets fulfillment. 

A Creative Mind at Work: Think, Learn, Create 

This summer, Lexi is helping lead a teen-led documentary project as part of the Club’s Think, Learn, Create (TLC) initiative. The focus? Celebrating the diversity of the West Lakes community by gathering stories from neighbors, veterans, and Club staff — and weaving them into a powerful narrative. 

Last year, she helped produce a promotional video for the Club and discovered a new passion in the process. 

“That’s when I realized I really enjoy storytelling,” she says. 

Whether behind the camera or in front of it, Lexi is learning how to use her voice to inspire others — and how listening can be just as powerful as speaking. 

Dancing Through It: Expression Without Words 

One of Lexi’s favorite ways to express herself is through dance. 

“Dance is a way to say what you want without actually saying it,” she explains. 

Whether she’s practicing ballet or contemporary choreography, movement gives her a sense of freedom and self-discovery. She’s also a regular in the Club’s art studio, where she channels her thoughts into mixed-media creations. 

“Art is a display of how you feel,” she says. It’s a creative outlet that helps her process emotions and connect with others in deeper ways. 

Academic Challenges, Real Growth 

Last year brought some unexpected struggles in Spanish and math — subjects that temporarily knocked Lexi off her usual A/B honor roll track. But she wasn’t alone in facing them. 

Thanks to Power Hour, the Club’s daily academic support and tutoring time, she got the structure and help she needed to turn things around. Her hard work paid off — and so did her leadership. Lexi was named Youth of the Year for the Bradley-Otis Family Branch, an honor recognizing her resilience and positive influence. 

Quiet Leadership, Big Impact 

As the oldest of her siblings and cousins who also attend the Club, Lexi understands that leadership doesn’t always mean being the loudest voice in the room. It means showing up, setting an example, and lifting others up with you. 

“I come to the Club because it’s where I can be myself,” she says. “I like to be part of the community and help where I can.” 

Whether she’s mentoring younger Club members, volunteering in her neighborhood, or collaborating with her peers, Lexi is already shaping the future she wants to see — and bringing others along with her. 

Why Lexi’s Story Matters 

In communities across Central Florida, young people like Lexi are building futures rooted in creativity, service, and self-expression. Their stories reflect the power of after-school and summer programs to spark transformation — not just academically, but emotionally, artistically, and socially. 

From leadership development to the arts to academic support, Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida provides the tools — but it’s young people like Lexi who turn those tools into something extraordinary. 

You can help make more stories like Lexi’s possible. A gift to Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida helps ensure that every young person has access to the safe spaces, caring mentors, and opportunities they need to thrive. 

Make a donation today and invest in the next generation of leaders. 

raymond web blog

From Club Kid to Duke University: Meet our 2025 Youth of the Year, Raymond

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Meet Raymond, the 2025 Kiwanis Club of Orlando Foundation Youth of the Year for Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida. A recent graduate of Jones High School and now a freshman at Duke University on a full scholarship, Raymond’s path has been anything but ordinary. His story is one of resilience, brilliance, and the life-changing power of community support. 

Overcoming Adversity: A Journey Fueled by Hope 

Raymond’s early life was marked by instability. At just six years old, he and his mother found themselves living at the Coalition for the Homeless. It was there that Raymond first walked through the blue doors of the Levy-Hughes Boys & Girls Club — an experience that would ultimately change the course of his life. 

“I had no idea this building would become a place of limitless possibilities and would ultimately change the trajectory of my entire life,” Raymond shared in his keynote address at our 2025 Celebrate the Children Gala. “It became the home I didn’t have.” 

That Club became a safe haven — not only offering hot meals and winter clothes but also a sense of belonging, mentorship, and purpose. From learning how to tie a tie to his first science project, Raymond discovered a world where curiosity and ambition were not only welcomed but nurtured. 

A Passion for Science and Service 

Inspired by the movie Interstellar and Kip Thorne’s The Science of Interstellar, Raymond developed a fascination with the cosmos. That spark of curiosity led him to independent studies in quantum mechanics, evolution, and theoretical physics. He would go on to become an International Baccalaureate Diploma Candidate, graduate with a 3.9 GPA, and rank third in his class at Jones High School. 

“I became a dedicated student and found solace in the idea that, in a life full of chaos, the universe followed order, and that fascinated me,” Raymond said. 

Now at Duke University, Raymond is pursuing his dream of researching dark matter and theoretical physics. But he’s not stopping there. His ultimate goal? To use his education to give back to the communities that believed in him. 

A Voice for Youth: Leadership and Advocacy 

As the 2025 Kiwanis Club of Orlando Foundation Youth of the Year, Raymond represented Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida at the Florida Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs’ Annual Days of Advocacy. In Tallahassee, he met with Florida legislators, sharing how Club experiences shaped his path and future goals. He also earned a spot as one of the top four finalists in the statewide Youth of the Year competition, making his community proud. 

Raymond’s poise, purpose, and passion for service made a lasting impression on leaders across the state. Whether advocating for youth development or speaking about his love of science and education, he exemplified the qualities of a true ambassador for Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida. 

Excellence at Every Level: Central Florida Judges Weigh In 

Earlier this year, Raymond was named the 2025 Kiwanis Club of Orlando Foundation Youth of the Year for Central Florida. Judges from respected organizations across Central Florida were moved by his compelling story, confidence, and drive: 

“Raymond’s overall submission was strong, and he had confidence in himself that truly gave him the edge over the others. He was able to share his story of adversity, curiosity, and perseverance—and how the Club helped him along his journey.” 
— Nisha Brice, Florida Blue 

“Raymond stood out because of his charisma and eloquence. His speech told a story about the encouragement he had received at Boys & Girls Club — and his ‘why.’” 
— Victoria Butler, AdventHealth 

“Raymond’s interview was exceptional. He is a born storyteller. He captivated us with his harrowing experience of homelessness after a fire destroyed his home. His strong sense of self is inspiring.” 
— Christina Ferraro, Disney 

“What I enjoyed most about Raymond was his authentic and magnetic personality. His ability to mix humor with gratitude, along with his clear commitment to his community, made him a standout.” 
— Tadar Muhammad, CareerSource Central Florida 

These affirmations reflect what so many at Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida already knew — Raymond is a rare leader with the intellect, compassion, and authenticity to inspire real change. 

A Defining Moment: Celebrate the Children Gala 

Raymond’s keynote speech at the 2025 Celebrate the Children Gala left few dry eyes in the room. As he shared his story of overcoming homelessness and loss — most heartbreakingly, the destruction of his home in a fire just seven months after finally gaining stability — his gratitude for the Club shined through. 

In a surprise moment that brought the crowd to their feet, Shannon Smith-Conrad, a Walt Disney World Ambassador, presented Raymond with an additional $10,000 scholarship, courtesy of the Boys & Girls Club family. 

“Turns out, the little things turned out to be not so little after all,” Raymond told the crowd. “Because of the strength of my mother, the unwavering support of my Club, and the love I found for science, I not only survived — I thrived.” 

Why Raymond’s Story Matters 

At Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida, we believe every child deserves a safe place to grow, explore, and lead. Raymond’s story is a powerful example of what’s possible when young people are surrounded by mentorship, resources, and unwavering belief in their potential. 

The mission of our organization is to inspire and enable all young people — especially those who need us most — to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible adults. Raymond embodies this mission. He is not just a scholar or a speaker; he is a changemaker and a beacon of what the next generation can accomplish when given the chance. 

Looking Ahead 

Raymond is now writing the next chapter of his story at Duke University, pursuing physics and possibly mathematics. He plans to pay it forward — investing in youth, uplifting his community, and continuing to inspire with his curiosity and purpose-driven mindset. 

“Our time on this earth is limited,” Raymond says. “And I intend to leave it better than I found it.” 

We couldn’t be more proud of Raymond, and we can’t wait to see the difference he’ll make in the world. 

Nikol web blog

Creating Change Through Compassion: Meet 2025 Youth of the Year Finalist, Nikol 

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At Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida, we believe every young person deserves the opportunity to lead, grow, and be heard. One shining example of that belief in action is Nikol, a dedicated Club member at our Tupperware Brands Branch, who has been named a 2025 Youth of the Year Finalist. 

For over a decade, Nikol has called the Club her second home. Through her unwavering commitment to service, leadership, and advocacy, she has become a trusted role model for her peers and a powerful voice for teens across Central Florida. 

A Champion for Teen Mental Health and Belonging 

Nikol’s passion lies in creating safe spaces for youth to express themselves and feel heard — especially those who are struggling silently. As a finalist for Youth of the Year, she’s using her platform to bring attention to teen mental health, identity, and the importance of accessible support systems. Whether she’s checking in on a quiet Club member, starting peer support conversations at school, or organizing open discussions about emotional well-being, Nikol leads with empathy and purpose. 

She believes that no one should have to face challenges alone. “Sometimes, all it takes is one person who truly listens,” she says. Her vision includes building stronger support networks through mentoring, workshops, and teen-led initiatives that promote mental health awareness and emotional expression. 

Leading with Creativity, Confidence, and Heart 

As Vice President of her Keystone Club, Nikol has brought her peers together through service projects, recruitment drives, and impactful fundraising events. She’s not just an organizer, she’s a motivator. Her creativity, adaptability, and outgoing spirit allow her to lead in ways that are both innovative and inclusive. 

From helping younger Club members with homework to earning her CPR certification and excelling in professional development programs like Workforce Wednesdays, Nikol has embraced every opportunity to grow. She credits the Club with helping her discover new skills, explore future careers, and become more confident in her abilities. “The Club has shaped who I am,” she says. “It’s where I learned to lead with compassion and courage.” 

Why Nikol’s Story Matters 

Nikol’s journey reflects the very heart of Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida’s mission: to inspire and enable all young people — especially those who need us most — to realize their full potential as productive, responsible, and caring adults. 

Through her leadership, service, and commitment to lifting others up, Nikol embodies the core values we strive to instill in every Club member: integrity, compassion, inclusion, and perseverance. Her story is not just one of personal growth, but a powerful example of how Clubs help young people find their voice, their confidence, and their purpose. 

When we invest in youth like Nikol, we’re investing in the future of our communities. Her success is a reminder that when given the right tools, support, and encouragement, our young people can rise to become the changemakers of tomorrow. 

Empowering the Next Generation 

Nikol’s success story is a testament to the transformative power of Boys & Girls Clubs. Through her tireless efforts, she’s helping to build a future where all teens feel supported, valued, and inspired to lead. 

As a 2025 Youth of the Year finalist, she continues to raise the bar — not only for what it means to be a great student and Club member, but for what it means to be a change-maker in her community. 

Congratulations, Nikol. Your voice matters, and the world is listening. 

Leondrae web blog

A Creative Leader Forged by the Club: Meet Youth of the Year Finalist, Leondrae

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At Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida, we believe every young person deserves a safe space to grow, dream, and lead. For Leondrae, a recent high school graduate from Eatonville, that space has always been our Joe R. Lee Branch. Now, after more than a decade of mentorship, creativity, and personal growth, Leondrae has been named a 2025 Youth of the Year finalist — a recognition of his remarkable journey from Club kid to community changemaker. 

A Lifelong Club Member with a Heart for Service 

Leondrae first walked through the blue doors of the Club as a kindergartener. From the very beginning, his potential was unmistakable. By fifth grade, he was already tutoring younger members in reading and writing. He didn’t just participate — he led, mentored, and became a role model for his peers. 

“Leondrae always showed the promise and skillset of a leader,” says Reginald Drummond, College and Career Coordinator at the Club. “He is a pillar in the Eatonville community.” 

A Creative Leader with a Powerful Voice 

Now an alumnus of Orangewood Christian School, Leondrae graduated with a 3.6 GPA, a full roster of AP courses, and multiple leadership roles. As President of the Keystone Club from 2021 to 2023, he organized fundraisers, led Club tours for donors, and served as a three-time keynote speaker at our “Faces of the Future” breakfast event. 

His talents extend well beyond academics. A gifted designer and photographer, Leondrae’s work has been featured by Best Buy — including a pop socket design honoring Black women — and he contributed to a cookbook project for Rachael Ray’s culinary foundation. This fall, he’ll take his talents to Florida International University to pursue a degree in graphic design. 

“I want to be the safe space for others that the Club was for me,” Leondrae says. 

Advocating for Mental Health and Equality 

Leondrae’s story is one of resilience and emotional growth. Raised in a turbulent home, he often struggled with his mental health — especially during the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead of withdrawing, he turned to the Club’s community and found strength through support and mentorship. 

Inspired by guest speakers like Coach Dr. Godfrey, Leondrae became an outspoken advocate for mental health awareness, encouraging others to seek help and speak openly about their experiences. 

“The Club taught me it’s okay to not be okay — and that strength comes from asking for help,” he says. 

Today, Leondrae is committed to creating inclusive environments where all voices are heard and valued. Whether he’s mentoring younger Club members or advocating for representation in media and the arts, he’s focused on helping others feel seen. 

Why Leondrae’s Story Matters 

Leondrae’s journey is a shining example of how youth development programs in Central Florida change lives. Through academic support, creative opportunities, and leadership development, Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida empowers youth like Leondrae to overcome obstacles and reach their full potential. 

As a 2025 Youth of the Year finalist, Leondrae represents more than personal achievement — he embodies the mission of our Clubs: to inspire and prepare every youth and teen to thrive, lead, and make a difference. 

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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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