Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford Youth of the Year Wins Connecticut Competition

Hartford, Conn. (May 2, 2025): Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford is pleased to announce Hartford Youth of the Year, Emani L. has been named Youth of the Year for the state of Connecticut. Youth of the Year is the highest honor presented by Boys & Girls Clubs of America. It recognizes outstanding leaders who exemplify the Boys & Girls Club mission and are proof of the impact Clubs have in transforming kids’ lives. They also serve as ambassadors for their fellow youth.

Emani was named Connecticut Youth of the Year during a competition and ceremony on May 1 in Trumbull. She competed against Youth of the Year candidates from 12 Boys & Girls Clubs across Connecticut.

The South Windsor high school junior has been a member of Hartford’s Southwest Boys & Girls Club for the past six years. Emani credits her Club for giving her countless opportunities, helping her build lasting friendships and developing her strengths and talents. She dreams of owning her own business which gives back to the community.

Emani will now go on to represent Connecticut in the New England Regional Youth of the Year competition to be held on June 17 in New York City. The regional winner will advance to the national contest to be named Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s Youth of the Year and will receive a full-ride scholarship. Emani will also speak and share her story at the Great Futures Celebration on June 7 at Infinity Music Hall. More information and tickets are available here.

About Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford:

Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford fill the gap between school and home, providing a welcoming and positive environment for thousands of youth each year. Our mission is to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens – putting them on a path to a great future. For more information, please visit bgchartford.org.