Overcoming the Odds

Imani will serve as an ambassador for BGCGTC’s youth as well as a voice for all of our young people. Over the years, she has exemplified the Boys and Girls Club mission and is proof of the impact Clubs make in transforming and saving kids’ lives. Imani epitomizes everything the Youth of the Year program strives to promote. Throughout the year, we have highlighted Imani’s incredible accomplishments and aspirations as she continues to inspire members of our community and beyond.
Imani first walked into one of our Clubs at the age of seven. The Club helped Imani break away from her shy shell and form new life lasting friendships and build relationships with mentors she views as family. At the North Branch, Imani has excelled as a SMART Leader, Keystone President, Torch Club President and mentor to younger members. Imani is not only active in the Club but also within her school. She is a standout performer in her school's show choir and excels academically. Imani plans to pursue a degree in advertising and media communications. After being selected as Youth of Year she quickly went to work advocating for her peers and bringing awareness to the struggles students face during the pandemic.
Imani has been busy in her new role as Youth of the Year. As one of our teen ambassadors for this year’s Spring cohort of Courageous Conversations for Kids summit, she did an exceptional job of speaking on behalf of students about the social - emotional and mental challenges that many youth have suffered during the pandemic.

Imani has also made headlines with her story of perseverance and resilience in her personal life. Her story was featured in the Star Telegram and highlighted the very real issue of child homelessness, with which so many youth struggle. Her story was used to raise awareness and draw attention to an issue that is easily overlooked.