Jariel H.R. – Youth of the Year Candidate
Jariel is a 16-year-old junior from Kissimmee, Florida. Friends describe him as witty, calm, and delightfully unique, with a personality that shines both inside and outside the classroom. His favorite subject is science—especially the hands-on lab work—and he is also an active member of his high school lacrosse team.
Jariel has a deep passion for photography, which he calls his favorite art form, and hopes to one day build a career as a professional photographer. His biggest goal for the future is to achieve financial freedom while pursuing the things he loves most. Inspired by his family and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Lanier, he embraces opportunities for growth and new experiences, which is what motivated him to participate in the Youth of the Year competition.
Outside of school, Jariel enjoys playing video games, skateboarding, hanging out with friends, and working on his love for cars—he dreams of building his own one day. A big fan of J. Cole, whose music inspires him, Jariel lives by the quote, “Love Yourz.” His go-to snack is spicy wings, he loves the movie Spiderman and enjoys the show Demon Slayer. If he could travel anywhere in the world, he would choose Japan, Italy, and Hawaii.
Jariel’s advice to other teens is simple yet powerful: don’t care about what others have to say or think about you.