For over 75 years, the Youth of the Year program has celebrated extraordinary teens who inspire us with their leadership, service, and commitment to excellence. These amazing young people remind us that with determination, hard work, and the support of caring mentors, anything is possible.
Here at Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tennessee Valley, Youth of the Year is one of our favorite ways to shine a spotlight on the talent, dedication, and potential of our outstanding Club members. Each year, Clubs from Anderson, Blount, Claiborne, Knox, and Loudon Counties nominate exceptional teens to represent their Club in this prestigious program.
The journey for these candidates culminates at our inspiring A Night with Our Stars event, proudly presented by FirstBank. At this celebration, each nominee takes the stage to deliver a powerful speech about their personal story and vision for the future. A panel of judges selects one extraordinary teen to represent all 25 Clubs at the state level. It’s a night filled with pride, inspiration, and unforgettable moments!
But this program is about more than just recognition—it’s about growth. Through Youth of the Year, teens have the chance to earn college scholarships, sharpen their leadership and communication skills, and step boldly into their futures as confident leaders.
We couldn’t be prouder of this year’s Youth of the Year candidates. Each of these remarkable teens represents the heart of our mission to change lives—and they are living proof of its success.
Learn more about each of these inspiring young leaders below. Let’s celebrate their achievements together and cheer them on as they continue to reach for their dreams!
Cole Green
Age 15
“The DeBusk Family Club has helped me to learn that the more I put into something the more I’ll get out of it. I apply that to everything I do.”
Aspirations: Hopes to attend college, preferably the University of Tennessee, and pursue a career in photography.
Attends: Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tennessee Valley – DeBusk Family Club
Has been attending the Club for the past 8 years
More about Cole: Cole’s favorite program is our Culinary Club. Once a week members have the opportunity to learn a new recipe and cook something different. Cole says that this has helped him obtain cooking and life skills.
Elohim Favor Mucyo
Age 14
“Youth of the year is not just a title, it is understanding what it takes to be a leader in your community and people around you. With that being said let’s ignite greatness.”
Aspirations: Plans to study Finance to become an accountant or a financial advisor.
Attends: Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tennessee Valley – Walter P. Taylor Club
Has been attending the Club since Kindergarten
More about Elohim: Elohim (Zozo) is a proud member of the Emerging Leaders program at KICKO and has volunteered his time helping package goods for Second Harvest Food Bank. At the Club, he’s always ready to step up and help wherever he’s needed, no questions asked!
Harlyn Burda
Age 15
“My Club helped me learn how much I like to help other people. It’s helped me with my socialization skills and gave me a better sense of how interact. Things like Thank-a-Thons have helped me a lot with talking to adults.”
Aspirations: Aims to attend a local TCAT program and pursue a career in welding.
Attends: Boys & Girls Club of Blount County
Has been attending the Club for the past 3 years
More about Harlyn: At the Club, Harlyn loves playing basketball with friends, cooking, building LEGO structures, and lending a hand to staff and younger members whenever he can!
JoRissah Wright
Age 16
“I appreciate the programs and opportunities that BGCTNV offers. For example, I just finished a program where the Knoxville Health Department came and talked to us about different aspects of life. I learned a lot of things about myself and how to have healthy relationships.”
Aspirations: Would like to attend the University of Tennessee to study Music and Education.
Attends: Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tennessee Valley – Regal Teen Center
Has been attending the Club for the past 5 years
More about JoRissah: JoRissah was our Youth of the Year representative last year and placed second at the state competition in Nashville! She wowed the judges with her passion for the Club and the Youth Arts Initiative (YAI) program, where she now helps coach younger members for their performances.
She also shared heartfelt gratitude for her favorite staff member, Mr. Joe, saying, “Mr. Joe is someone I trust. He encourages me, gives great advice, and is always there when I need help. Every kid needs a mentor to help guide them to greatness.”
Wyatt Seals
Age 15
“I’ve been given many leadership opportunities at my Club. This has given me the ability to be a positive role model and offer a pillar of support for younger kids.”
Aspirations: Plans to attend the University of Tennessee Knoxville to study either Law or Economics.
Attends: Boys & Girls Club of Loudon County
Has been attending the Club for the past 7 years
More about Wyatt: Wyatt looks up to Mr. Ethan, his favorite staff member, who has guided him throughout his time at the Club. With Mr. Ethan’s help, Wyatt has explored a variety of sports, including baseball and football, which help him stay active and embrace healthy lifestyles.
This past summer, Wyatt also took part in a YouthForce internship, where he gained valuable workforce readiness skills that will help him succeed in his future career!
