Special Thanks to the Arizona State Youth of the Year Sponsors!
About the Program
The Arizona State Youth of the Year celebration honors the remarkable Club teens from across Arizona who have been selected as their organizations’ Youth of the Year (YOY) representatives. Each YOY candidate previously competed within their organization and was selected to advance to the State Youth of the Year competition based on their tenure as a Club member, strong academic standing, strength of character, community involvement, and perseverance.
This year, we will once again honor a group of young people from across Arizona who exemplify these strong character attributes. One representative will be named the 2025 Arizona State Youth of the Year at the breakfast celebration on April 8, 2025, and will advance to represent Arizona in the Pacific Region competition with the ultimate goal to advance to the National Youth of the Year contest.
Sophia B. | Davis-Monthan AFB Youth Program
Sophia is a dedicated sophomore at Mica Mountain High School and an active member of the Davis-Monthan Air Force Base Youth Program, where she has been involved for the past two years. With aspirations of becoming a general surgeon, she plans to attend Johns Hopkins University to further her education and make a lasting impact in the medical field.
Passionate about advocacy and leadership, Sophia is committed to representing and uplifting others. She strives to be a voice for those who may not have one, using her problem-solving skills and creativity to drive meaningful change. She believes that true greatness comes from putting others first and actively contributing to her community.
Lily L. | Boys & Girls Clubs of Colorado River
Lily was born in Fort Mohave, Arizona and has lived in the surrounding community her entire life. Lily has been with the Club for 10 years, demonstrating exceptional kindness, teamwork, and a positive attitude, as well as making a significant impact at Boys & Girls Clubs of the Colorado River.
Lily is always ready to lend a hand, while still juggling the life of being a senior at River Valley High School. Lily also volunteers her time taking pictures for various sporting events for her school’s yearbook. She plans on attending college to continue taking psychology, and her prospective college choice is Grand Canyon University.
Makia W. | Boys and Girls Clubs of Flagstaff
Makia comes from Lok’aa’inteel, known in English as Ganado, a rural community in the Navajo Nation. Carrying values similar to her community’s founder, Ganado Mucho, Makia has naturally evolved into a go-getter and motivator. Her ability to seek opportunities led her to relocate to Winslow for her education and to take advantage of programs such as Boys & Girls Club, NAU’s Upward Bound Program, Winslow High School’s Honor Society, and more! Makia’s commitment has driven her to the goal of obtaining her Bachelor of Science degree and further working towards Medical School. Makia wholeheartedly values her community as well as the people of the Navajo Nation and would like to someday return home to help heal those in need.
Vanessa C. | Boys and Girls Clubs of the Gila River Indian Community
Vanessa is a 10-year member of Boys & Girls Clubs of the Gila River Indian Community’s Komatke Branch. She is a junior at Betty H. Fairfax High School and is planning to attend Arizona State University to pursue a career in Marine Biology once she graduates. She participates in robotics at school and is also on the girls volleyball team. She is currently Keystone Treasurer at the Club and is enthusiastic about giving service to others.
God, family, and friends are the most important things to Vanessa, as her faith has carried her through tough times as she has had to deal with the passing of family members. The Club has been her safe space throughout, offering encouragement, support, and opportunities for growth!
Emma F. | Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale
Emma, 17, is a senior at Desert Mountain High School and has been a member of the Virginia G. Piper Branch for 12 years. After graduation, she plans to move to Ireland to attend college, with the goal of one day working for the United Nations to help people in crisis. Emma credits the Club with shaping her into the leader she aspired to be, building both her confidence and leadership skills. Her advice to younger Club members: Never let anyone tell you what you can or cannot achieve—your potential is limitless.
Isaac M. | Boys and Girls Clubs of Sierra Vista
Isaac is a determined and passionate 17-year-old high school senior who loves football and music production. A dedicated member of Boys & Girls Clubs of Sierra Vista for the past eight years, Isaac has honed his leadership skills and made a lasting impact through his involvement in Torch Club.
In 2024, Isaac led his football team to a championship victory despite facing injury, a testament to his resilience, commitment, and unshakable drive. The guidance and encouragement from his Club staff have empowered him to embrace challenges and push beyond his limits. He aims to attend the University of Arizona on a football scholarship, where he will continue to develop his skills. His ultimate goal is to make his mark in the NFL and inspire others to chase their dreams.
Mya S. | Boys and Girls Clubs of Tucson
Mya is a dedicated 7-year member of the Steve Daru Clubhouse, where she has consistently demonstrated leadership, initiative, and a passion for service. As the current president of Keystone, she plays a pivotal role in organizing and planning monthly events that engage and inspire her peers. Mya is also an integral part of the dance program at Tucson High Magnet School.
At the Clubhouse, Mya thrives in various roles, from managing the snack bar to leading and coordinating the co-ed volleyball program she founded. She also serves as a coach and manager for the cheer program. Looking ahead, Mya is eager to pursue her dream of becoming a veterinarian and plans to attend the University of Arizona to study animal science and veterinary medicine.
Amaya G. | Boys and Girls Clubs of the Valley
Amaya is a junior at Deer Valley High School and has been attending the Louis & Elizabeth Sands Branch for two years. Amaya quickly felt right at home and treasures the time she spends in the Sands teen center. Activities like teen field trips to Northern Arizona University and volunteering to pack food for the homeless stand out among her Club experiences, because they’ve allowed her to explore her options for the future and give back to her community.
Amaya has seven siblings, with another on the way! She aspires to attend NAU and enter the medical field, with a particular interest in ultrasound technology. The Club has been instrumental in encouraging Amaya to reach for the stars, helping her build confidence, express herself, and work towards her dreams.
