Four youths presented their stories before a panel of Silicon Valley executives.

Azaria James, Makasini Broussard, Johanna Castillo, and Anderson Ortiz were chosen to speak about the impact of the Boys & Girls Club of the Peninsula (BGCP) on their lives.

The event took place on Feb. 15 at the Boys & Girls Club’s East Palo Alto Clubhouse.

Azaria James, a student at East Palo Academy, shared her experiences with racism, dyslexia, and bullying and how BGCP helped her navigate these challenges. She discussed her aspirations to become a filmmaker and how BGCP has supported her journey.

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Peninsula CEO Jenny Obiaya high-fives her way through lines of BGCP youth before taking the stage to deliver her speech. Courtesy Patrick Ang Photography. Makasini Broussard from Woodside High School talked about overcoming personal obstacles such as his mother’s deportation, racial trauma, and juvenile detention. He credited BGCP for playing a significant role in his recovery and personal growth.

Esther Vono — a Boys & Girls Clubs of the Peninsula member, who frequently sings at the organization’s events — performed a stirring rendition of Ben E. King’s “Stand By Me” backed by all of the Youth of the Year candidates, including those from previous rounds of selection. Courtesy Patrick Ang Photography. Johanna Castillo, a student at Middle College, where she is both a high school senior and a college sophomore, spoke about her struggles with imposter syndrome and how being around other ambitious students at BGCP helped her stay motivated in pursuing a medical career.

Anderson Ortiz hugs his father, whom he had addressed from the stage in Spanish, thanking him for the example that helped Anderson earn the honor of representing BGCP in pursuit of the National Youth of the Year honor presented by Boys & Girls Clubs of America. Courtesy Patrick Ang Photography. Anderson Ortiz, attending Oxford Day Academy, recounted his adjustment to a new life in the U.S. after immigrating from El Salvador in 2019. He highlighted how BGCP provided a supportive community that helped him excel academically and as a soccer coach for younger players.

The panel included Bianca Gates (Birdies CEO), Mamoon Hamid (Kleiner Perkins Partner), Aaron Levie (Box CEO), Marissa Mayer (Sunshine CEO), and Ryan Roslansky (LinkedIn CEO), who evaluated the speeches. This event highlighted the crucial support BGCP offers to young individuals facing various challenges.