A club member since she was 13 years old, Nayomi Spencer was selected by the Variety Boys & Girls Club of Queens as their representative in the Youth of the Year competition for a state title and scholarship.
As a passionate singer, dancer and actor, Spencer was described by Variety’s program director as a “well-rounded triple threat.” Although her goal of a state title was ended recently, Spencer, 18, – now the assistant performing arts director at Variety – remains the apple of the club’s eye.
“We are extremely proud of her,” said Blair Trunzo, program director at Variety. “She’s the best of the best, and we couldn’t have picked a more conscientious candidate.”
A win at the state competition would have meant competing for the title of Northeast Region Youth of the Year and an additional $10,000 scholarship from Tupperware Brands. The National Youth of the Year will receive an additional $50,000 from the Rick and Susan Goings Foundation and will have the opportunity to meet with President Barack Obama at the White House. Even without the win, Spencer has a more than promising future ahead of her.
“Nayomi is a bright and talented young woman, to watch her command a room of young performers while teaching and guiding them through her choreographed moves is inspiring,” said Terence Hughes, executive director of Variety Boys & Girls Club. “To know that she learned these traits here at Variety and is now giving back is a testament to the Boys & Girls Club system that empowers young people to be whatever they want to be…and to be great.”
Spencer will continue to go to Queens Vocational High School and will graduate with a license in cosmetology. From there, she will attend The New School ¬in Manhattan next fall to study education and business.
“It feels amazing just for the opportunity to meet other youths from all over the country and hear their stories,” said Spencer, who dreams of opening her own salon one day. “Just getting nominated is a win for me. Not everybody gets that opportunity.”
For more information about Variety’s afterschool and summer programs, call 718-728-0946 or visit www.vbgcq.org.
