Our 2026 Washington State Youth of the Year (YOY) Emelia P. and our 2026 Washington State Military Youth of the Year Peyton C. attended the Pacific Regional Youth of the Year the beginning of May. The event took place in Phoenix. They competed against other Pacific state youths.
Before the main event, both Peyton and Emelia were able to participate in several activities, helping them build connections with the other youth. They attended an Arizona Diamondbacks game at Chase Field, participated in a golf experience at the Wigwam, and had fun bowling and playing games at Dave & Busters.
Judging day occurred on May 7th. Finalists dressed to impress to compete for the title of Pacific Regional Youth of the Year. Earlier that morning, all finalists received their order of judging then stepped in front of the panel of judges. They each had 20 minutes to give their speech and answer the judges’ questions. The day ended with a celebration at Phoenix Raceway where two of the Pacific state finalists were awarded the title of 2026 Pacific Regional Youth of the Year and 2026 Pacific Regional Military Youth of the Year. Despite not winning, Emelia and Peyton continued to show how supportive they were of their counterparts. They celebrated with the two winners, all having fun performing karaoke and enjoying a pizza party.
We asked both YOYs about their feelings regarding their journey, as well as their advice to other youth seeking to compete in future Youth of the Year events.
How are you feeling after being named the 2026 Washington State Youth of the Year and the 2026 Washington State Military Youth of the Year?
Emelia: I’m feeling great! I’m very grateful for this opportunity, I never thought I’d make it this far in my YOY journey, but I am so happy!
Peyton: …I have felt all the good emotions; I am still on Cloud 9. I feel more empowered and inspired than ever. Getting to connect with other leaders around Washington State has been so beneficial to me and my leadership growth. I have been so excited to travel to Arizona for Regionals…(and) am so ready to meet and connect with the other candidates, have fun, take pictures and, most importantly, share my story.
What advice do you have for other youth pursuing Youth of the Year? What can they expect and what should they be sure to prepare for?
Emelia: My advice would be to just go for it! It’s such a fun experience and you get so many incredible opportunities. Be your true self and highlight your personal experiences – that’s what matters most.
Peyton: Advice I have for other youth pursuing Washington State Youth of the Year is to be present and enjoy every moment during my time in Seattle. I had so much fun doing all the activities, becoming friends with everyone and supporting the other candidates. Youth that are interested in the program should expect to be as energetic and outgoing as possible at first i was a little shy but once I became more comfortable I became friends with everyone and next thing I knew I was in-charge of making the group chat, taking pictures with all other candidates and helping pick where we were eating next. Youth should be prepared to share their story and be who they truly are.
What advice do you have for other youth not participating in YOY? How would you inspire them?
Emelia: Don’t be scared to get out of your comfort zone and try new things! You’ll never know what you can do until you say yes to the opportunity.
Peyton: Advice I have for other youth is to always lead with love. Your heart is the most beautiful thing about you and once others see that it opens so many doors for you. For example, because I lead with love, I’ve had other youth ask, “How can I do what Peyton does” and “How is she such a good leader?” And the answer has always been leading with love. I would encourage other youth to be kind, supportive and give their all to what they do. You never regret being kind.
Congratulations, Emelia and Peyton on your journeys. We know you both will go far!
