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EIGHTEEN UNDER EIGHTEEN

Some young people don’t wait for permission to lead — they lead because it’s who they are.

Next Up: Top 18 Under 18 is an annual, tri-county youth recognition initiative created to honor young people ages 13–18 who are already making a positive impact in their schools, families, and communities.

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This initiative celebrates leadership in all its forms — from service and creativity to innovation, advocacy, wellness, and academic excellence. Next Up recognizes students not for popularity or titles, but for character, commitment, and real-world impact.

Eligibility & Nominations

Youth may be nominated if they are 13–18 years old, live in or attend school in Palm Beach County, Broward County, or Miami-Dade County, and demonstrate leadership, service, or positive influence in their community.

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Leadership may take place in many settings, including schools, neighborhoods, faith spaces, sports, creative work, entrepreneurship, advocacy, or service.

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Nominations may be submitted by educators and school staff, coaches and mentors, community and faith leaders, youth-serving organizations, parents or guardians, or by students themselves with an adult reference.

Recognition Categories

Each honoree is recognized under one primary category, reflecting the unique way their leadership and impact are demonstrated:

  • Entrepreneurship & Innovation

  • Community Service & Civic Engagement

  • Student Leadership

  • Arts, Culture & Creative Expression

  • STEM & Academic Excellence

  • Mental Health Advocacy & Wellness Leadership

  • Athletics & Sports Leadership

  • Social Impact & Youth Voice

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How Honorees Are Selected

All nominations are reviewed through a structured, multi-step evaluation process guided by an Advisory & Selection Board composed of respected leaders from the education, community, and civic sectors.

Students are thoughtfully considered based on:

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  • Leadership and initiative

  • Impact and consistency

  • Character and integrity

  • Growth and potential

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Each year, 18 students are selected to represent excellence across the tri-county region, reflecting the depth, diversity, and promise of youth leadership in Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade Counties.

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