The 2026 Youth of the Year Celebration for the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tar River Region was an evening filled with pride, powerful stories, and unforgettable moments. Surrounded by supporters, families, mentors, and community leaders, we celebrated the outstanding achievements of three exceptional young leaders who represent the very best of our Clubs.
An Inspiring Message We were honored to have 2019 Youth of the Year winner Nia Euwell introduce our guest speaker for the evening. As a former Youth of the Year and proud Club alumna, Nia represents the lasting impact of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tar River Region.
Nia introducedThe Honorable Judge Pell Cooper, who delivered an inspiring message about overcoming challenges and embracing the powerful impact of the Club. His words reminded our youth that their circumstances do not define them. Their character, perseverance, and commitment to growth do.
Alumni ImpactBGCTRR alumna Saya Parker shared her personal journey and reflected on how the Club continues to open doors and create new opportunities in her life. Her testimony was a powerful reminder that the impact of the Boys & Girls Club extends far beyond childhood.
Honoring Champions for Youth We were proud to present the HERO Award to Damon Circosta, Executive Director and Vice President of the A.J. Fletcher Foundation,for his outstanding dedication to youth development and continued investment in young leaders. His commitment to supporting the next generation exemplifies what it means to champion great futures.
A special thank you A special thank you to Senator Lisa S. Barnes and Representative Allen Chesser for requesting that North Carolina State Flags be flown over the General Assembly in honor of our Youth of the Year finalists. Each finalist received an official flag flown on February 19, 2026, a truly special and memorable gift.
Gratitude to Our Judges and Mentors
This celebration would not be possible without the dedicated individuals who pour their time, wisdom, and care into our youth.
Our judges Jonathan Boone, Cali Green, Jackie Lassiter, and Jamerus Payton provided thoughtful leadership and guidance throughout the competition as they carefully evaluated each finalist. We also recognize Judge Jasmin Span, who was unable to attend but played an important role in the process.
Our coaches Patricia Roberson, Sydney Meeks, and Atrulove Echols stood beside our youth every step of the way. Your encouragement, preparation, and belief in our young leaders truly matter.
Pictured from left to right: Jonathan Boone, Jackie Lassiter, Cali Green and Jamerus Payton
Pictured from left to right: Sydney Meeks, Patricia Roberson and Atrulove Echols.
Honoring a Lasting Legacy
We were especially honored to have Michael Shaw and Terrance Shaw, Theresa’s husband and son, join us as we paid tribute to her legacy through the Theresa Annette Shaw Memorial Youth of the Year Scholarship.
In honor of the late Theresa Annette Shaw, former CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tar River Region, the scholarship stands as a lasting tribute to a leader whose life’s work transformed generations of young people in our community. Her legacy will continue to uplift and inspire future leaders for years to come.
One of the most powerful moments of the evening came as each finalist took the stage to deliver their speeches. With courage and confidence, they shared their personal stories and reflected on how the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tar River Region has impacted their lives. From academic growth and leadership development to finding a safe place and a supportive community, their words were heartfelt, honest, and inspiring. Each speech was a testament to the life changing power of the Club experience.
Although our 2026 Youth of the Year, Carisma was unable to attend in person, we are incredibly grateful to our friends at Aaron’s for providing the technology that allowed her to join us via Zoom and still be part of this special evening.
Celebrating Our Finalists
And now, the moment everyone was waiting for:Third Place: Jahniya Whitehead Second Place: Nyree Minto 2026 Youth of the Year: Carisma Deans
Carisma will proudly represent the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tar River Region at the state competition.
A special thank-you to Jordan Little for capturing the energy and joy of the night through his incredible photography.CLICK HEREto view all of the wonderful photos of the evening. Thank you to everyone who attended and supported our youth. Your presence, encouragement, and belief in our mission help make moments like this possible.
You Can Continue to Support Our Youth
We invite you to stay connected and see the impact firsthand.
• Schedule a tour of one of our Clubhouses and experience the life-changing work happening every day. Contact Desiree at DDolberry@bgcnec.org to set up a tour today.
• Make a gift at any level to help us continue opening doors for the next generation of leaders. Click here to donate.
When you support the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tar River Region, you are not just making a donation. You are opening a door. And when that door opens for a child, it changes everything.
