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

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.