Maui Teen Selected as 2012 Youth of the Year

Maui Senators congratulate members of the Maui Boys and Girls Club. (L to R) Raquel Zane, Leah Kinores, Lopaka Mattos, Sen. English, Sen. Baker, Sen. Tsutsui, Courtney Galarita and Tiera Conley. Courtesy photo, Senate Communications.

By Wendy Osher

A Maui student was selected today as the 2012 Boys and Girls Club of Hawaii “Youth of the Year”.

The award was issued to Baldwin High School junior, Lopaka Mattos, who will serve as the club’s regional representative.

Mattos and other finalists were also issued a certificate of recognition today for their excellence during a Senate floor presentation at the State Capitol.

Other Maui club honorees recognized during the floor presentation included: Leah Kinores, Raquel Zane, Tiera Conley and Courtney Galarita.

Mattos and other finalists were selected by their respective clubhouses for their leadership, resilience, and demonstrated commitment to serve their families, communities, and the Boys and Girls Club organization.

Senator J. Kalani English of Maui was among those on hand to congratulate Mattos for the accomplishment saying, “He has impressed many throughout the Boys and Girls Club organization with his strong faith, sense of community and volunteerism.”

Colleague and Senate President, Shan Tsutsui also offered congratulations saying the recognition is a well-deserved honor.  “He is an extraordinary young man who has been able to rise above many personal challenges.”

Senator Roz Baker said Mattos will make Maui proud as a regional representative.  “At 17-years old, he has already demonstrated his perseverance against adversity, which makes this achievement even more gratifying,” said Sen. Baker.

***Supporting information courtesy Senate Communications.