Page 20 - South Mississippi Living - December, 2025

Youth of the Year
story by Cherie Ward
Ireland Neal
COAST NOTE
20 | December 2025
www.smliving.net | SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living
photo courtesy of Boys & Girls Clubs of the Gulf Coast
Meet Ireland Neal, a name you’re going to be hearing a lot more of in the future. This standout teen from the IP Center in D’Iberville has been named the 2025-2026 Boys & Girls Clubs of the Gulf Coast Youth of the Year, earning top honors at the recent 58th Annual Meeting & Youth of the Year Competition.
The Youth of the Year program is the Boys & Girls Clubs’ signature character and leadership initiative. Each Club nominates incredible members ages 14-18 who shine in academics, leadership, and community service. These teenagers aren’t just planning their futures. They’re putting in the work right now to build them.
Neal is one of those natural go-getters. As part of the junior staff team, she’s the first to roll up her sleeves and help wherever she’s needed—from tutoring younger students to hyping up the drama club for their next big event. Her positivity and passion make her a favorite among both staff and fellow members.
As this year’s Gulf Coast winner, Neal takes home a $1,500 educational scholarship and will represent the Gulf Coast at the state competition in March. State winners advance to regional and national contests, where one teen earns the ultimate title of National Youth of the Year and serves as the voice for millions of Club kids nationwide.