Established in 1947, the Youth of the Year Award at Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston recognizes Club members who have shown superior leadership, academic achievement, and service to their respective club community.
The annual program fosters personal growth and leadership qualities among our young members.
Get to know Niyah, Mattapan Teen Center Youth of the Year:
Niyah toured the Mattapan Teen Center the week it opened and immediately fell in love with the environment, people, and resources. She remembers how welcoming the staff was and how she could easily be her authentic self while there.
She credits the Club with opening doors for her and exposing her to new worlds. Described by staff as a creative spirit, Niyah explains she doesn’t know where she would be without art. MTC has given her a platform to further explore her passion for the arts including dance, painting, writing, and performing. In addition to being a member of her high school’s dance team, she is an integral part of MTC’s dance team and has led dance programs for other members during the summer. Niyah has also performed spoken word at the Club’s annual Hip Hop Showcase.
During her time as a member, Niyah engaged in community service projects such as feeding the homeless, attended a Historically Black Colleges and Universities fair, and participated in entrepreneurial programs. Niyah has worked extremely hard to put herself on a path that will bring her both joy and success as she pursues a career in art therapy.
