This month, 2025 Palm Beach County Youth of the Year, Phildensy Jean, and Corporate Partnerships Director, Chilondra Sheppard, had the extraordinary privilege of attending the 26th Annual National Leadership Academy (NLA) in Bajan, Mexico!

Phildensy was selected to represent Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County as a student participant, and Chilondra was honored to serve as a volunteer staff member alongside Tommy Spaulding and an incredible team of heart-led leaders from across the country. For four transformational days, students stepped outside of their comfort zones. Phildensy represented our organization with excellence, curiosity, and a genuine desire to learn. As leaders, we often talk about creating opportunities for young people to discover their purpose. NLA is one of those rare experiences where purpose is not just discussed it is lived.

The National Leadership Academy reminds us that leadership is not about titles, recognition, or personal achievement, but rather lifting others, serving where needed, and leaving people and places better than we found them! While NLA is designed to develop leadership skills, inspire purpose, and empower young people to make a positive impact in their schools, communities, and the world, the experience offers something even greater. It teaches a philosophy of leadership rooted in compassion, service, and humility.

Thank you to the entire National Leadership Academy team for creating an experienced that challenges young people to ask one of life’s most important questions: “What more can I do to make a positive impact?”

Click the button below to view some amazing shots from this unforgettable experience!