NEW HAVEN, CT — A South Windsor teen has earned the title of Connecticut Youth of the Year, celebrating her exceptional leadership and service to the community. Emani Lee, a junior at South Windsor High School and six-year member of the Southwest Boys & Girls Club, received the top honor from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford.
Lee, 16, will now represent Connecticut in the Northeast regional Youth of the Year competition set for June in New York City. The prestigious Youth of the Year award, the highest recognition from the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, is given to teens who exemplify academic success, strong character, and a commitment to community.
“A couple of years ago, I would have never expected myself to be in this position, because I was pretty timid,” Lee said. “So, I definitely want people to know that as long as you really push yourself, you can exceed your own expectations and do anything that you want.”
Winning the title of Connecticut Youth of the Year places Lee among an elite group of young leaders. She will compete for a chance to advance to the national competition, where the winner becomes a national spokesperson for Boys & Girls Clubs of America and receives a full college scholarship.
Lee’s honor brings pride to South Windsor and highlights the impact of youth mentorship and leadership development programs across the state.
For more information on the Youth of the Year program, visit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford website.
