Boys & Girls Clubs of the Austin Area (BGCAA) proudly hosted the 2025 Texas Youth of the Year (YOY) program, a prestigious event recognizing the state’s most inspiring young leaders from 25 Texas Boys & Girls Clubs from March 16-18. Throughout the Youth of the Year journey, Boys & Girls Clubs honor these outstanding young people at local, state, and regional levels before offering six teens the opportunity to strive for the title of National Youth of the Year.

The event in Austin featured exciting activities, including field trips, interviews, speeches, and a celebration of our youth leaders’ achievements. These experiences allowed participants to network, learn, and celebrate their growth, showcasing the power of the next generation of changemakers.

The journey to becoming National Youth of the Year begins at the local level, where Boys & Girls Clubs select an outstanding member to represent them. State winners then compete in regional events, refining their speeches and advocacy skills before reaching the National Youth of the Year Celebration, where finalists from five regions, along with the National Military Youth of the Year, vie for the top honor.

Texas Youth of the Year Leaders Go Behind the Scenes at H-E-B

As the proud host of the Texas Youth of the Year program, we organized enriching field trips for our young leaders, including a fun networking event at Austin’s Parks and Pizza and a visit to the H-E-B Mueller location as part of our Workforce Development initiative. During the tour, they got a behind-the-scenes look at how this community-focused company operates.

Club YOY members had the chance to meet passionate H-E-B Partners, who shared valuable insights into the company’s ‘people business’ culture, career opportunities, and impactful programs that support students and local communities. They also learned about H-E-B’s inspiring founder, Florence Thornton Butt, who opened the first store in 1905—a true trailblazer for women in business. Her story resonated with all in attendance, making this visit even more special during Women’s History Month.

Empowering Youth Voices

The BGCA Youth Town Hall provided an invaluable opportunity for young people to engage directly with local leaders and decision-makers. Rudy Metayer, City Council Member for the City of Pflugerville, Chair Kelly, Judge of the Third District Court of Appeals for the State of Texas, and Kathryn Whitley Chu, School Board Member for Austin Independent School District, joined the event to listen to the concerns and ideas of our youth. This open forum allowed participants to discuss important community issues, ask questions, and learn more about how these leaders influence local governance, education, and justice. The event highlighted the power of youth voices in shaping a better future and inspired participants to continue advocating for their communities.

Texas Youth of the Year Celebration Luncheon

We proudly celebrate our 2025 Youth of the Year, Na’Siah! Her dedication, leadership, and passion have made a lasting impact on our Club community. While she did not advance to the next level of the Youth of the Year competition, her journey is far from over. As BGCAA’s Youth of the Year, Na’Siah continues to inspire her peers and shine as a role model for the next generation of leaders.

Na’Siah has been a shining example of resilience and determination, motivating others and paving the way for those who look up to her. Her future is bright, and we’re excited to see all she accomplishes!

Congratulations to the 2025 Texas Youth of the Year Ximena V. from Boys & Girls Clubs of McAllen, TX, and to Tristyn M. from the JB San Antonio – Lackland Boys & Girls Club!

A Special Thank You

A heartfelt thank you also goes to the state legislators and officials who met with our Youth of the Year finalists, providing them with invaluable opportunities to advocate for youth programs and share their personal stories of impact. Your support helps amplify the voices of young leaders and ensures a brighter future for youth across Texas. 

2025 State Summit & Youth of the Year Sponsors

We also extend our deepest gratitude to the 2025 Youth of the Year, generous sponsors:

Your commitment to education, leadership, and community empowerment plays a vital role in shaping the next generation of changemakers. Thank you for investing in Great Futures!

2025 Youth of the Year Judges

A huge thank you to all 20 judges who dedicated their time and support to youth development. We sincerely appreciate you and are truly grateful for the partnership.

• Lisa Ivie Miller – CAPTRUST

• Captain Scott Jackson – Texas A&M University

• Dr. Carolyn Landel – LONESTARP3, College of Education, University of Texas

• Moira O’Connell – Asto Consumer Partners

• Colonel Kimberly Rizo – Texas Military Department

• Diane Shelton – DPR Construction

• Alta Simmons – National University

• Michael Sorresso – LinkedIn

• Tabatha Sweeney – Sylvan Learning

• John Termotto – Firefly Aerospace