Adequoyah Mathews, a 17-year-old student at The MET High School East Bay Campus, has been named the 2025 Youth of the Year by the Boys & Girls Club of Newport County — the organization’s top honor recognizing leadership, academics, and service.
The award ceremony took place at the Community College of Rhode Island’s Newport campus, where Mathews rose above finalists David, Sasha, and Jayla.
Though new to the club, Mathews has quickly made her mark. She leads the club’s ABAR (Anti-Bias, Anti-Racist) initiative and captains the Ethics Team, balancing activism with academic ambition. She hopes to enroll in the Brown University/RISD dual degree program to study political science and pursue a career in social justice.
“Leadership is about inspiring others to rise, advocate for themselves, and challenge the status quo. A true leader empowers individuals to use their voices for transformation and growth. Let’s create spaces where everyone feels confident to make a lasting impact. Step up, speak out, and be the change.”
Judges T.R. McGrath, Angela Lima, and Margaret Sullivan-Carr selected the winner based on leadership, service, academic performance, and public speaking.
Mathews’ recognition as Youth of the Year places her in the running for state and national honors through the Boys & Girls Clubs of America.
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