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