Youth of the Year | BGCMaryland.org

Since 1947, the Youth of the Year program has honored and celebrated the nation’s most inspiring teens and their incredible journeys. Stories of outstanding leadership, service, academic excellence, and dedication to living a healthy lifestyle have made Youth of the Year America’s premier leadership and recognition program for teens.

Becoming National Youth of the Year is an exciting and inspiring journey. Each year, thousands of Club teens participate in local, state, and regional Youth of the Year events. Six teens, including five regional finalists and the National Military Youth of the Year, advance for the National Youth of the Year, where one outstanding young person is named Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s national teen spokesperson. The National Youth of the Year is a role model, leader, and advocate for the nearly four million youth served by Boys & Girls Clubs each year, and all of America’s young people.

2026 Maryland Youth of the Year Winners

Veimar M.

Boys & Girls Clubs of
Carroll County

Oliviah B.

Naval Air Station
Patuxent River

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Veimar has grown into a strong leader at Boys & Girls Clubs of Carroll County. As a Junior Leader, he mentors younger members and helps create a welcoming environment where everyone feels accepted. Veimar is known for the way he connects with others and makes people feel comfortable and included. He understands how important it is for young people to have a safe space where they can be themselves, and he takes that responsibility seriously. He is especially committed to supporting mental health programs that help youth build positive coping strategies and strengthen their confidence. Veimar shares, “Belonging starts when someone believes in you, and that can change everything.” Veimar will attend St. Charles Borromeo Seminary to pursue his vocation in the Catholic Church.

Oliviah has been a dedicated member of the Boys & Girls Club for 10 years, including the past four years at the Patuxent River Teen Center. A passionate leader and advocate for her peers, Oliviah currently serves as Keystone President, where she works to ensure Teen voices are heard and represented within the Club. Oliviah has also demonstrated leadership through NJROTC, serving as Community Service Officer during the 2024–2025 school year and as Mistress of Ceremonies for the 2025–2026 school year. Following graduation, she plans to attend Towson University to major in Communications and pursue a career as a Communications and Media Specialist. Through her dedication to service, leadership and advocacy, Oliviah continues to inspire those around her while preparing for a future focused on connection, creativity and impact.