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