Straz's Broadway Stars of the Future Reflect on a National Stage Experience That Goes Beyond Awards

Though they didn’t walk away with the top prize at this year’s Jimmy Awards, Tampa’s local winners—Jayden Vega from Howard W. Blake High School and Zayda Martin, a recent graduate of Harrison School for the Arts—returned from New York City with something more lasting: a transformative week of growth, inspiration, and artistic connection.

Both performers earned their spot at the national competition after being named winners at the Straz Center’s Broadway Star of the Future, a distinction that positioned them among the most promising high school musical theatre talent in the country. For Vega, the moment his name was announced was electric: “It was so insane, my initial reaction was shocked, but as I stepped up to receive my award and heard the roar of applause, a wave of emotion hit me.”

Martin echoed that sense of disbelief and gratitude. “I was in complete and total shock—I literally almost dropped my trophy twice,” she said. “I am so honored to be able to represent the Straz Center at the Jimmys.”

While the national spotlight is bright, both students were clear-eyed about what they hoped to gain from the experience. “My hopes and goals are to take it all in, take every chance I can to learn and grow no matter what the outcome is,” said Vega. “So grateful to be here, and being able to win is just a bonus.”

Martin shared a similar mindset: “My main goal for myself is to be present in the moment... I hope to allow myself the space to enjoy being able to live a part of my dreams and have fun doing what I truly love.”

Throughout the week, they joined dozens of other high school performers from across the U.S. in masterclasses, rehearsals, and industry mentorship. Both spoke about how inspiring it was to be part of a community so committed to the craft. “It’s always so inspiring and uplifting to be in a room with people who share the same passion as me,” said Vega. “I’m thrilled to see where that takes me throughout Jimmy week.”

Martin added, “We all interpret and perform musical theater in different ways that are impactful and beautiful. Being able to learn from people who are also actively developing and exploring their art like I am is vulnerable, yet exciting.”

Their experience affirmed their commitment to the art form—and the communities that helped shape them. “Winning would be a moment I could give [my community] in return for the years they have poured into me and my love of this art form,” Vega reflected. Martin, too, left New York with gratitude: “It’s made me realize how grateful I am for the support I have here at home.”

Their New York journeys may not have ended with a trophy, but they represent the best of what the Jimmy Awards offer: connection, personal growth, and a deepening dedication to musical theater. And for Tampa, that’s something worth celebrating.