2026 Youth of the Year: Hitantiva Ramirez!

A woman with medium length burgundy hair, wearing a cream-colored cardigan with black stripes and gold buttons, a black shirt underneath, and a gold pendant necklace. She is smiling slightly, showing braces with decorative bands. The background has a white backdrop with blue logos and text.

Hitantiva Ramirez, 18, is a survivor, an advocate, and a proud first-generation high school graduate of Rio Mesa High School.

Growing up as the translator and bridge for her family of six, she faced unimaginable challenges—including a car accident that threatened her mobility. Through it all, she learned resilience, courage, and the power of her own voice.

The Boys & Girls Club of Nyeland Acres has been her second home since she was eight, providing a safe space to heal, grow, and lead. Today, she serves as Keystone President, Senior Kindness Ambassador, Choir Captain, Junior Staff, and Smart Girls Chair, using her leadership to uplift others.

Hitanvita is honored to be the 2026 BGCOP Youth of the Year. She hopes to be a bridge for those still trapped in silence, breaking the stigma around mental health, and showing every young person that their story matters.

SEE HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 2026 CALIFORNIA COASTAL YOUTH OF THE YEAR EVENT
SEE HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 2026 CALIFORNIA COASTAL YOUTH OF THE YEAR EVENT
Two young girls in a store holding a USC Trojans football T-shirt. One girl wears a red top and black cardigan, the other a red shirt with a jacket. They are smiling.
Group of six women standing together outdoors at a community event, some wearing matching purple shirts with event badges, smiling at the camera with tents and inflatable structures in the background.
Three young women smiling and posing with peace signs at a bowling alley, holding a green bowling ball with the word 'Bowling' written on it. They are wearing matching black shirts with red and white text that says 'RENT'S CLUB.' The background shows other people and neon-style lighting.
Three girls at a party posing with a colorful photo frame that says 'Take Me Back.' One girl is making a kiss face, and another girl is smiling showing braces. The party background includes rainbow-colored streamers and decorations.