Celebrating Tomorrow’s Leaders: Osan Youth & Teen Center and the Military Youth of the Year
- Samantha Rowse
- 5 days ago
- 4 min read
By Samantha Rowse, Teen Coordinator, Osan Youth Programs
At Osan Air Base, the Osan Youth & Teen Center is more than just an after-school program—it’s a vibrant community for youth 9-18 years old to learn, grow, and lead. The center provides a dynamic environment that blends fun with personal development using Boys and Girls Club of America and 4-H programs. From late-night events and themed celebrations to academic support and career preparation, the center tailors its activities based on what youth want and need. The impact of the program fosters personal and academic growth while creating a strong sense of community among military youth.
One of the center’s programs is Keystone, a teen leadership club dedicated to academic success, career preparation, teen outreach, and community service. Keystone members mentor younger peers, collaborate with the Korean Tourism High School, and organize events that make a real difference in their community. It’s no surprise that this year’s Military Youth of the Year winner and two participants are active Keystone members—a testament to the program’s role in shaping future leaders.
What is Military Youth of the Year?
Military Youth of the Year (MYOY) is the Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s recognition program, celebrating military teens who demonstrate leadership, service, and academics. Since its introduction in 2013, MYOY has highlighted the resilience and achievements of youth growing up in military communities.
The competition is more than just a title—it’s an opportunity for teens to develop essential skills, refine their personal narratives, and gain confidence in public speaking and professional settings. To support participants, the Osan Youth & Teen Center launched a MYOY Club, offering workshops with guest speakers, personalized coaching, guidance, and mentorship throughout the competition process.
On January 24th, 2025, Osan held its local MYOY competition, celebrating four outstanding teens who showcased their achievements and shared their stories.
2025 Military Youth of the Year: Isabella C.
Isabella "Izzie" embodies everything MYOY stands for. A dedicated member of the Osan Youth & Teen Center since 2019, she has been a driving force in Keystone, using her passion for service to uplift those around her. Her commitment earned her the 2020 Presidential Volunteer Award and she remains an active volunteer in her community.
Izzie’s talents extend far beyond leadership—she excels in academics and the arts. From playing on the Girls Varsity Soccer team to earning a spot in Honors Jazz Chair and Advanced Drama, she is a well-rounded student with a bright future. Her exceptional ability to communicate and advocate for important issues helped her stand out in the MYOY competition, where she delivered a compelling speech and wrote insightful essays.
Izzie continued her journey at the next level of the competition, placing second against fourteen competitors virtually on March 13th! We are incredibly proud of her achievement in such fierce competition! Her dedication and spirit will undoubtedly lead her to great success in all her future endeavors.
Osan’s MYOY Participants
The Osan Youth & Teen Center is also proud to recognize three other remarkable teens who participated in this year’s competition.
Ayden C.
A member since 2022, Ayden C. is a dedicated leader both in the center and at school. He actively participates in Keystone, student government, and multiple sports teams, showcasing his ability to balance diverse commitments and excel in multiple areas.
Beyond his involvement in the center, Ayden is an active Boy Scout and volunteers with the VFW. He is passionate about music, sports, and astronomy and he has set his sights on attending the U.S. Naval Academy to study mechanical engineering and pursue his goal of becoming a Navy SEAL. He also shares his musical talents with the choir at Our Lady of Peace Osan.
Joseph M.
Since joining the center in 2024, Joseph M. has been an integral part of the teen community. He is passionate about art, film, and cosplay, dreaming of bringing stories to life in the film industry or as a novelist.
Joseph quickly became an active participant in Keystone, as well as events like #WeOwnFriday and Osan-Con. A dedicated Eagle Scout, he continues to give back to his community through volunteer work at his church. His creative spirit and commitment to service stands out among Osan’s youth.
Mack
A member since 2023, Mack has an extraordinary gift for languages, having learned both German and Korean after spending most of his life in Germany and Korea. His linguistic skills have helped him serve as a class president and assist military members facing language barriers in emergencies.
Beyond academics, Mack is a published author for United on the ROK magazine and an active church member. He also practices Taekwondo and has a passion for performing magic tricks. With aspirations of graduating valedictorian, Mack hopes to use his language abilities to make a meaningful impact on others.
Congratulations to all of Osan’s MYOY participants! Your dedication, leadership, and service are an inspiration to military youth everywhere.
Osan Youth & Teen Center’s Commitment to Youth Excellence
The Osan Youth & Teen Center remains committed to empowering its youth by providing mentorship, scholarship opportunities, and career workshops. These initiatives ensure that young leaders like Izzie, Ayden, Joseph, and Mack continue to thrive.
The MYOY competition is more than just an award—it’s a platform for military teens to share their stories, develop their skills, and inspire others. As Izzie moves forward in the competition, she carries with her the unwavering support of the Osan community and the legacy of excellence that the Youth & Teen Center instills in every participant.
The MYOY competition is more than just an award—it’s a platform for military teens to share their stories, develop their skills, and inspire others. As Izzie moves forward in the competition, she carries with her the unwavering support of the Osan community and the legacy of excellence that the Youth & Teen Center instills in every participant.
Resources
Osan CYP Website: https://51fss.com/youth-center/
Facebook: Osan Air Base Child and Youth Programs
Osan CYP Information
Osan Air Base Bldg. 492
DSN: 784-1492
From Cell: 0505-784-1492
School Days: Monday-Friday 1030-1300 & 1400-1730
No-School Days, Early Release, and Summer Hours:
Monday-Friday 1030-1200 & 1300-1730
Closed: US Holidays & Combined 7AF & 51 FW Down Days
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