BGCMLA's 2025 Youth of the Year

Kaydence - Our 2025 BGCMLA Youth of the Year!

Kaydence is a creative and resilient individual who has navigated personal challenges and found growth through her experiences. Her passions include art, drawing since the age of two, and video games, which have been a significant part of her life since childhood.  She values expressing creativity in any form and comes from a family of artists, with her mother focusing on drawing and painting, and her father composing music and working as a tattoo artist.  Kaydence uses drawing as a way to cope with hardships and express her emotions and desires. 

Her journey has also been marked by personal growth and overcoming challenges. Kaydence was diagnosed with ADHD in kindergarten and later with Oppositional Defiant Disorder in fourth grade, which led to difficulties in school and social interactions.  She experienced alienation and struggled with her behavior, which affected her relationships with teachers and friends.  However, a turning point came when she was confronted by her friends about her behavior, prompting her to reflect and make changes.  Kaydence has also faced mental health challenges, including depressive episodes and suicidal thoughts, but has worked towards healing and self-acceptance.  

In middle school, Kaydence joined the Boys and Girls Club, where she found a welcoming environment and engaged in various activities.  She also had the opportunity to participate in a sailing program through the club, which led to significant personal growth and new experiences.  Through her journey, Kaydence has learned to manage her ADHD and ODD, forgive herself, and embrace all aspects of her identity. 

Osbaldo - Runner Up & 2024 BGCMLA Youth of the Year

Osbaldo's life has been deeply influenced by his passion for music and his involvement with the  Watts/Willowbrook Club. His love for music began in childhood and intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading him to learn guitar. The Club provided him with access to the Fender Play Program, where his passion for music grew under the mentorship of Ms. Anita. Beyond music, the Club offered opportunities for leadership and personal growth. Osbaldo's experiences include working over the summer, starting a podcast advocating for social justice, and participating in the Summit for America's Youth in Washington, D.C., which broadened his perspective and solidified his commitment to the Club.

Osbaldo has transformed from someone who preferred to observe from the sidelines into a proactive individual who pursues his dreams. Growing up in an environment marked by challenges like high crime and homelessness, the Club has empowered him to dream beyond his circumstances. He actively engages in various programs, such as music production, recording, and the Street Law Program, exploring his interests and developing his skills. Osbaldo is dedicated to giving back to his community, mentoring younger children at the Club and supporting their development. His commitment to music and social justice is driven by a desire to uplift his community and address the disparities he sees. Osbaldo aims to be a voice for the unheard, advocating for change and inspiring hope in his community. He values personal growth and embraces change as a means of self-improvement and making a difference in the world.

Tyler - Runner Up

Tyler's life has been significantly shaped by his involvement with BGCMLA, where he transitioned from a shy, unfocused student to a confident, goal-oriented young person. Initially drawn to the club, he discovered his potential through various activities, including playing guitar in a band, which fostered self-expression and public speaking confidence. He actively participated in Club events, honing his listening and leadership skills, and built strong, supportive relationships. His commitment extended to community engagement through sports coaching and participation in agricultural service projects. A pivotal moment in 7th grade, a candid conversation with a teacher about failing grades, triggered a profound shift. This realization highlighted the importance of education and personal responsibility, prompting him to adopt a focused, hardworking approach. He learned that dedication and a "win-win" mindset are crucial for achieving goals.

Driven by a desire to be a role model, Tyler harbors ambitions in content creation, professional basketball, and barbering. He aims to leverage his experiences to uplift his community, emphasizing the importance of personal and communal development. His plan involves creating engaging online content, including sports commentary and instructional videos, to share his skills and inspire others. He recognizes the value of understanding others, believing that genuine connections and shared perspectives are essential for personal growth and creating positive change. Tyler's journey reflects a transformation from a disengaged student to a determined individual committed to self-improvement and community contribution.

Raymundo - Runner Up

Raymundo is a resilient and ambitious individual who has transformed his high school experience through academic dedication, leadership, and community involvement. Initially reserved, Raymundo's life took a positive turn when he joined the Boys & Girls Club, which motivated him to excel and seek opportunities for growth.  He actively participates in programs and embodies qualities like ambition, curiosity, maturity, excellence, and joy.  His ambition drives him to maximize learning opportunities and prepare for success as a first-generation scholar, and his curiosity fuels his pursuit of knowledge in public health and medicine, aiming to make a meaningful impact on people's lives. 

Raymundo has demonstrated maturity by supporting his family, particularly his mother with congestive heart failure, and balancing various responsibilities.  He strives for excellence in academics and leadership, inspiring others through his involvement in varsity volleyball and community service.  His joyful attitude and ability to find positivity, even in challenging situations, define his character.  His experiences, including completing a youth law program and becoming a Posse semi-finalist, have prepared him for his journey as a first-generation college student.  Raymundo is motivated by his love for family, passion for healthcare, and goal of improving healthcare outcomes in his community.  He has gained hands-on experience in healthcare through USC's allied health programs and founded a medical club at his high school to educate and inspire his peers.

Abram - Runner Up

Abram experienced a profound loss with the passing of his younger brother on October 12, 2022, an event that deeply impacted his life. In the immediate aftermath, he struggled with intense sadness, missed school, and engaged in aimless wandering, grappling with his emotions and the overwhelming grief. A few weeks later, he found a supportive environment at the Boys and Girls Club, where he formed strong connections and participated in activities.  

At the Club, Abram's involvement as a Youth Intern transformed him, enhancing his communication skills and providing him with valuable work experience. He is a young Latino man who values safety, education, and community. Seeing children at the club reminds him of his brother and motivates him to create safe spaces for kids. He is passionate about working with children and deeply misses his deceased brother. Abram is focused on making his community safer and ensuring that everyone is treated with care and respect. He is developing strong problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills, and has aspirations for higher education and a career in law enforcement, with a dream of becoming an FBI agent. 

During Youth of the Year, judges representing the community and diverse backgrounds will select one teen to represent BGCMLA at the city, state, regional, and national levels. These judges are committed to fostering leadership and nurturing the next generation of community leaders, and we're so grateful to have their support!

Sian Seligman, CMO/Founder, Tiger Pig Entertainment

Brent Stokes,  President, Venture Lynk

Rolando Gomez, Director Community Relations & Strategic Initiatives, Govt. & Community Affairs

Natalie Clayton,  Founder/CEO TILT, Synergy, Inc

Jose Soto,  Field Marketing Coordinator, Vallarta Supermarkets