Odessa Student Competed in Youth of the Year

Maya Barraza represented the local Wilkerson Club at the West Texas Junior Youth of the Year competition in Lubbock.

Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Youth

Odessa Student Competed in Youth of the Year

Maya Barraza, an 11-year-old student from Odessa, participated in the recent West Texas Junior Youth of the Year competition. She represented the local Wilkerson Club during the regional event held in Lubbock.

Why it matters

The program highlights young leaders who demonstrate character, commitment to their community, and leadership skills. Participants like Barraza use this platform to share personal stories about the impact of the Boys and Girls Clubs in their lives.

Maya Barraza is an 11-year-old fifth-grade student who has attended the Wilkerson Club for 4 years. The regional Junior Youth of the Year title was awarded to a contestant from the Lubbock Boys and Girls Club.

The players

Maya Barraza

She is an 11-year-old student and member of the Wilkerson Club in Odessa.

Boys and Girls Clubs of the Permian Basin

This organization provides youth development services and supports community programming across West Texas.

The details

Barraza shared her experiences and the personal impact the Boys and Girls Club has had on her development during the competition. Outside of the club, she maintains interests in teaching dance and pursuing future work in nail artistry.

The West Texas Junior Youth of the Year competition took place on October 10-11, 2026.

Culture Shift

This participation reflects a broader trend of youth leadership programs fostering community engagement among elementary students. These initiatives bridge the gap between extracurricular involvement and personal skill development through structured recognition programs.

Students and families in Odessa can engage with the Wilkerson Club to explore similar leadership opportunities and youth development activities. Participation in such events often requires a commitment to community service and personal goal setting for young members.

The takeaway

Programs like these encourage youth to find and refine their passions while building character through community service. Developing leadership skills at a young age provides a strong foundation for future personal and professional aspirations.