Meet Anthony, Boys & Girls Club Malibu's Youth Of The Year

MALIBU, CA — 17-year-old Malibu senior Anthony first got involved with the Boys & Girls Club because he needed a place to hang out after school until his parents finished work. But over time, he saw the club as much more than just summer trips and professional programming — he became more confident with public speaking, and was inspired to be a role model for his community.

Boys & Girls Club Malibu recently named Anthony their 2023 Youth of they year on account of his involvement and academic achievement, an honor that comes with a $1,000 scholarship and eligibility to for the Los Angeles County Youth of the Year title.

A panel of judges including city, school board and community representatives picked Anthony for his "academic achievement, leadership skills" and positioning as a local role model. Anthony was considered among four candidates who submitted applications including essays, letters of recommendation and interviews. Other finalists received $500 scholarships.

Anthony was proud of his achievements, he said, and proud that he wasn't limited by English being his second language. Anthony has always struggled with public speaking, so the interview for Youth of the Year was a significant challenge that he worked hard to overcome, he said.

"When I was nominated for Youth of the Year I felt very happy and proud of myself because all my [work and efforts] paid off," Anthony said in Spanish through an interpreter. "I think I was chosen because I showed that I was capable — I showed courage."

The scholarship will help Anthony finance his further studies, he said. The money will go toward buying a computer, books for school and transportation.

Anthony also sees the award as an "opportunity to represent Latinos and other people who have immigrated to this country," especially those in the Malibu community, he said.

In his time at the Boys & Girls Club, Anthony has most appreciated career development opportunities, he said. He participated in Career Launch, which teach students about resume and cover letter writing and work life. These lunches were valuable experiences for Anthony to further his interest in computer science. His dream is to work with Google, he said.

Anthony also worked toward his 50 hours of internship experience at the club's Wellness Center, where he helped parents fill out forms and supported bilingual parents. He also worked in the club's donation center during the pandemic to help families get food and clothing.

The club has provided some fun and relaxation during Anthony's summers, he said. He particularly enjoys beach and camping excursions.

Anthony hopes his recognition inspires other young Malibu locals to chase their dreams despite any seeming limitations, he said. As long as they work hard, stay focused and always reach out for help, they can achieve their goals, he said.

"I would tell these young people... they should [never] believe that [just] because they do not have enough resources or have certain physical limitations, they cannot achieve what they want," Anthony said.

Editors note: Patch interviewed Anthony in Spanish with a translator.