Youth of the Year

Our flagship leadership development program. It runs year-round in our service centers and includes a recognition of the academic excellence, leadership, character, and community service of our participants.

As part of this component, each year, our Clubs select their own Youth of the Year to represent them in youth forums and become a candidate for the title of Youth of the Year for the entire organization.

To reach that stage — and before undergoing evaluation by a jury — candidates for the Youth of the Year title participate in a series of workshops that prepare them in areas such as storytelling, interview techniques, emotional management, stage presence, and the drafting of a three-minute speech in which they tell part of their story and how our Clubs have transformed their lives. The winner is announced during the “Walk in Their Shoes” event.

“Walk in Their Shoes” is a call for empathy towards our youth and a reminder of the willingness of others to walk in their shoes, better understand their needs, and support them on their path to a promising future.

The participants in the Youth of the Year program reflect our mission to develop the full potential of our children and youth. Their stories represent the experiences and challenges faced daily by more than 16,000 children and young people from underserved communities in our regions.

Becoming the Youth of the Year for our organization is a unique opportunity to serve as an ambassador for Puerto Rican youth in forums both in Puerto Rico and the United States, to be the spokesperson for youth challenges, and to exemplify what young people can achieve when given access to opportunities to develop as the new generation of leaders.