The Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta (BGCMA) recently hosted its “Youth of the Year” celebration that highlights how young people are not just preparing to be leaders of tomorrow but are already making a difference in their schools, neighborhoods, and communities today.
The event centers around BGCMA’s prestigious Youth of the Year program, the highest honor a Club member can achieve. Through mentorship, safe spaces, and best-in-class programming, the organization continues to change lives and help young people thrive in college, careers, and beyond.
Terri Fishback, Chief Programs and Operations Officer for BGCMA, explained that it’s all about helping young people take agency over their own lives.
“We have year-round programming for the Youth of the Year, where participants learn leadership, have mentorship opportunities, and discover how to advocate for themselves,” Fishback said. “Today’s event is the culmination of that work. We get to name a Junior Youth of the Year and five Youth of the Year candidates who will go on to compete at the next level.”
Fishback noted that the program not only builds confidence but also teaches practical life skills that prepare youth for success beyond the Club. “A lot of the skills they learn resumé writing, interview preparation, and building confidence support young people both now and in the future,” Fishback said. “We’ve seen incredible transformation over an eight to 10 week period. Young people who were once shy and hesitant to speak in front of others emerge ready to deliver speeches and share their stories with pride.”
Greg Bannister, Director of Teen Engagement and Sports for BGCMA, explained that the event is a united effort across the organization’s network of Clubs.
“All of our Clubs come together with one goal to highlight what’s being done in each Club and the impact it’s having,” Bannister said. “We have 25 Clubs in total, and about 20 of them participate in this program. Each Club selects representatives who share their personal stories about how the Boys & Girls Club has changed their lives.”
The program includes a rigorous eight-week preparation process with workshops held twice a week, one virtual and one in person. Each participant is assigned a mentor and receives guidance in public speaking, essay writing, interviewing, and networking. To compete, candidates must submit a detailed packet that includes three essays, three recommendation letters, and a three-minute speech.
Judges evaluate each component to determine the top five finalists. Those finalists will be revealed during the “Youth of the Year Gala” on November 7, where the winner will be announced and will advance to compete at the state level. From there, the state winner moves on to the regional and national competitions.
“Over the past few years, we’ve either won or placed second at the state level,” Bannister shared. “We’re proud of that success and hope this year to send another one of our amazing young leaders to the national stage.”
The Power of Now perfectly encapsulates the mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta to empower youth with opportunities they need to thrive not just in the future.
“It’s about giving young people the tools and the voice to make an impact right now,” Fishback said. “When you see them step into that power,it’s truly incredible.”
