The Swainsboro Exchange Club held its regular meeting on April 14 at 12:30 p.m. at Rustic Grill, where the Youth of the Year recipients were announced.
The National Youth of the Year program begins at the local club level, where Exchange Clubs across the country recognize outstanding high school students for their academic excellence, community involvement, leadership, and character. Each local winner advances to district (or state) judging, with district honorees moving on to compete for the prestigious National Youth of the Year award.
The National Youth of the Year receives a $10,000 scholarship, an invitation to address hundreds of Exchangites at the National Youth Recognition Luncheon, and publication of their winning essay in Exchange Today magazine.
This year’s essay theme was: “In a world that is constantly changing and ever-evolving, our youth play critical roles in shaping the future of their communities. From advocating to leading, young people are taking charge and making significant impact. How have you personally contributed to society and how do you envision your future in community service?”
Applicants are judged in several areas: school-related activities, community service, academic achievement, special awards, and the essay. Scores from each section are totaled to determine the winners. Local scholarships awarded this year were $450 for first place and $350 for second place.
This year’s Swainsboro Exchange Club Youth of the Year winners are: Samadhi Salgado (ECI) – First Place and Kali Screws (SHS) – Second Place.
Other outstanding nominees included Addalyn Terwilliger (DEA), John-Nathan Martin (DEA), Wessyn Willoughby (ECI), and Maddux Robertson (SHS).
Program chairs for this year’s Youth of the Year competition were Mark Williams and Jansen Ware.
