WBGC 2023 Youth of the Year

by Chris Wangler

April 10, 2023

Waltham High School junior Arthur Nsubuga was named the Waltham Boys & Club’s 2023 Youth of the Year during a ceremony last week in the club auditorium.

“The club has become my home away from home,” he said.

“It is a place where I feel free to express myself without any judgment and a haven for me and my little brothers. Knowing that we are all in a safe place and loved has given my dad peace of mind.”

Fellow finalists included WHS seniors Saleh Bassaj, Leasly Diaz Beltre and Kassandra Enriquez and WHS juniors Haybi Del Rosario and Garcia Barrios.

Arthur was one of six finalists for the award.

With Executive Director Erica Young, Assistant Executive Director Jason Smith and Waltham Mayor Jeannette McCarthy

Club executive director Erica Young described him as “an outstanding young leader who embodies the values of Waltham Boys & Girls Club.”

The ceremony was held in the WBGC auditorium

Arthur has accomplished a lot at the club since moving to Waltham from South Africa in summer 2021.

As part of the Keystone Club, he has cleaned up the Charles River, prepared Christmas gifts for children and attended a leadership academy.

Arthur with some key mentors: WBGC High School Coordinator Rebecca Kravetz and Director of Program Operations Kendall Gillians

Along the way, he has forged important relationships with mentors, fellow teens and younger kids at the club.

“It’s a place to grow and learn and be the best person you can be,” Arthur said in a club video in 2022.

Peter Lobo photos