Genesis Parfait of Newark has just been awarded the 2023 New Jersey Youth of the Year by the Boys & Girls Clubs of America! This prestigious honor recognizes students’ leadership, service and academic excellence. Genesis, a graduating senior at KIPP’s Newark Collegiate Academy. will now fill another highly respected role as an ambassador for all teens in the state. She’ll also be the recipient of a $12,500 college scholarship.

More than 12 years ago, when Genesis was in early elementary school, she joined her local Boys & Girls club. Looking up to older members, Genesis got involved in numerous activities and clubs over the years dedicated to leadership, community service, fitness and academics, including the Keystone Club, BGCN’s Step Team, SMART Girls, STEM and more. Outside of her involvement at The Club, she maintains a 4.3 GPA, is the student-member of the KIPP School Board of Directors, serves as President and Secretary Interior for her high school’s student government and founded the Step Team at Newark Collegiate Academy. Additionally, she volunteers mentoring younger members during Power Hour, an hour dedicated after school to assist members with homework. 

Now, as a graduating senior planning to attend the University of New Haven and majoring in Forensic Science, her hard work has paid off. As the 2023 New Jersey Youth of the Year, she will go on to compete for regional Youth of the Year on June 21 with a chance to win an additional $20,000 college scholarship. 

“We are incredibly proud of Genesis and all the Youth of the Year nominees,” said Susan Haspel, State Director of Boys & Girls Clubs in New Jersey. “Being named NJ Youth of the Year is a lifelong honor. As the New Jersey Youth of the Year, Genesis will serve as a spokesperson for Boys & Girls Club kids and teens across the state as a role model that they can admire and emulate.”