Excitement filled the room as over 100 guests gathered at Albertus Magnus College on March 13, 2025, to celebrate three outstanding teens competing for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater New Haven’s 2025 Youth of the Year title: Quadir Blue, Nicolina Couto, and David Ospina. This event honored their leadership, community commitment, and inspiring personal journeys.
Over the past six months, these young leaders dedicated themselves to the competition, honing their public speaking skills, crafting powerful personal statements, and preparing to share their stories. Each nominee was recognized for their perseverance, hard work, and ability to inspire others.
A panel of distinguished community leaders served as judges, deeply moved by the heartfelt speeches. One judge remarked, “Choosing a winner was one of the hardest things we’ve ever had to do.” After much deliberation, David Ospina was named the 2025 Youth of the Year.
As the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater New Haven’s Youth of the Year, David will receive a $1,000 scholarship and advance to the Connecticut state competition for a chance to earn the statewide title. We wish him the best of luck on this incredible journey!
The event was graced by three esteemed elected officials: Wallingford Mayor Vincent Cervoni, North Haven First Selectman Michael J. Freda, and New Haven Alderwoman Carmen Rodriguez. Their presence underscored the program’s impact and the importance of investing in young leaders.
Mayor Cervoni commended the teens for their dedication to leadership and community service, emphasizing the need for positive programs that guide youth toward success. First Selectman Freda echoed this sentiment, highlighting how BGCGNH programs help teens develop into confident, productive citizens. Alderwoman Rodriguez expressed her admiration for the nominees and her commitment to expanding these programs in New Haven.
Special thanks to our esteemed judges:
- Aly Fox, VP, Community & Belonging, United Way of Greater New Haven
- Maribel La Luz, Director of Marketing & External Affairs, CT Dept of Housing
- Libby Protzman, President, Junior League of Greater New Haven
- James Schafrick, Asst. VP for Finance and Operations, Albertus Magnus College
Judge Aly Fox shared, “It was an honor to hear the inspiring stories of these finalists. David, Nicolina, and Quadir have incredible strengths and bright futures ahead. While our decision was tough, we are proud to celebrate David as the 2025 Youth of the Year and are confident in his ability to be an impactful ambassador for the BGCGNH. Congratulations to all three for their hard work and leadership.”
This event would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors: CT State Gateway Community College, the Junior League of Greater New Haven, the Jamie & Michelle McAdam Foundation, IMA Financial Group, and Halloran Sage. Their commitment to empowering youth makes a lasting impact.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater New Haven congratulates all three nominees and extends heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to this event. The dedication and achievements of the Youth of the Year nominees continue to inspire us all.
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