The statewide competition was held virtually earlier this week. Boys & Girls Clubs organizations throughout the state sent their youth representatives to compete for the state Youth of the Year title. Last night, Aliayah Simmons from Macon, Georgia was selected to represent the state of Georgia at the upcoming regional competition in June. Aliayah has been a member of the Murphy Felton Tindall Club for over a decade and is proud of the way the Club Experience has impacted her life for the better. Hear her local Youth of the Year speech here. 

“It has been amazing to be a part of Aliayah’s journey since she was a girl,” says Program Manager Katrina Williams. “Even just this year, she has really grown into herself. We are proud that she continues to represent the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Georgia at the state level. Wish her luck at regionals this summer!”

Aliayah is the first winner from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Georgia since 2013. Georgia has a legacy of young men and women who have made it to the Oval Office as the National Youth of the Year or were named Regional Youth of the Year. State winners receive more than $5,000 in scholarships and participate in regional competitions. Each regional Youth of the Year, including regional military finalists, receive a $10,000 college scholarship (renewable for up to four years). The National Youth of the Year receives a $25,000 scholarship (renewable for up to four years) and is installed by the President of the United States.