Melanie Rosario
Youth of the Year, Boys & Girls Club of Aguas Buenas
Melanie is passionate about visual arts, music, astronomy, and literature. However, writing has been her greatest inspiration, allowing her to motivate others and share meaningful values. Despite life’s challenges, her love for storytelling pushes her forward, aiming to inspire others through her words. Since joining the Aguas Buenas Club, her life has transformed. “I’ve learned valuable lessons at the Club, especially that no one is alone in life,” reflects the aspiring writer.
At the Club, Melanie has formed strong friendships, developed leadership and empathy, and learned the power of teamwork and artistic expression. Through programs like Keystone, Plan for the Future, and Juntos Sanamos, she has discovered the importance of connection and support.
One of her biggest goals is to write a book that will inspire children to never give up.
Jelix M. Serrano
Youth of the Year, Boys & Girls Club of Arecibo
Jelix, a tenth-grade student at a trade school, is passionate about fashion, travel, and improving public health. She aspires to study medicine at the University of Puerto Rico to enhance healthcare accessibility and promote well-being. Despite being in high school, she is already taking college courses, excelling in integrity, empathy, vision, responsibility, and resilience. She has participated in various workshops and competitions, such as the science fair and the family emergency plan competition, both at her Club and in school.
Jelix has been a leader in her community, actively engaging in the Arecibo Club since she was six years old. Over the years, she has grown, learned, and developed essential skills like leadership, communication, and teamwork.
Kenneth Arroyo
Youth of the Year, Boys & Girls Club of Isabela
Kenneth has found in the Isabela Club a safe space to grow, learn, and lead. Recognized for his empathy, communication skills, and determination, he has led various community projects through Keystone Club, including beach cleanups and supporting senior homes. Throughout his time at the Club, Kenneth has learned the importance of teamwork, discipline, and service, making him a role model for younger members. He has also cultivated his passion for basketball and helped other Club members develop their athletic skills.
Looking ahead, Kenneth is set to begin his studies in aviation mechanics at the University of Puerto Rico in Aguadilla next year.
Britani Castillo
Youth of the Year, Boys & Girls Club of Las Margaritas
Britani’s story is one of resilience and leadership. Having moved from the Dominican Republic to Puerto Rico, she faced the challenges of immigration and family separation. At the Las Margaritas Club, she found a space that helped her grow, overcome obstacles, and discover her passion for leadership and service. Today, she is a committed leader in her community, determined to pursue a career in medicine to help those in need.
As part of her journey, Britani is currently studying nursing in her vocational high school. One of her most significant accomplishments at the Club was leading a social project for immigrants in her community alongside her peers in the Keystone leadership group.
Her story is an inspiration—turning challenges into opportunities for impact.
José M. Del Valle
Youth of the Year, Boys & Girls Club of Loíza
José is a passionate young artist whose journey has been marked by personal growth and a deepening interest in education. Since his early days at the Loíza Club, art and the Club’s support provided him with a safe space to heal and develop his skills. His artistic experience led him to view art as a tool for emotional expression, inspiring him to become an art teacher and help others through education.
Taking the first step toward his dream, José will begin his studies at Bard College in New York, supported by the prestigious Posse Scholarship, awarded to only 10 students from a pool of 17,500 nominees across the U.S. and its territories. This scholarship recognizes not only his artistic talent but also his teamwork skills, academic perseverance, and commitment to making a difference in his community.
Keyshliann Otero
Youth of the Year, Boys & Girls Club of Llorens Torres
Keyshliann joined the Llorens Torres Club as a shy child but quickly grew into a confident leader. She became a spokesperson for the Keystone leadership group, demonstrating her ability to inspire and connect with others. She fully engages in the Club’s educational programs, recognizing it as a space that nurtures her goals. Her dream is to graduate from university, and her natural confidence draws others to her, making her a leader in every sense.
Keliell Martínez
Youth of the Year, Boys & Girls Club of Mayagüez
Keliell’s story resonates with many young people. After struggling with social connections and feeling lost, he decided to return to the Mayagüez Club—a place that helped him grow personally and academically. There, he discovered his love for service, inspired by the dedication of his mentors. His goal is to become a nurse, driven by his passion for helping others. Keliell’s journey is a powerful example of how determination and the right support system can break barriers and turn dreams into reality.
Sallymar Delgado
Youth of the Year, Boys & Girls Club of San Lorenzo
Organized, responsible, and self-confident, Sallymar has found in the Club a platform to raise her voice as a young leader. She is the president of SKILL USA Puerto Rico at her school and excels in softball, ping pong, and cheerleading. With a passion for veterinary medicine, she actively contributed to the “Abrazando Patitas Perdidas” project, aimed at helping stray animals. Her story is a reminder of how simple virtues can have a profound impact on others.