Holmdel Teen Honored With Youth Changemaker Award

HOLMDEL, NJ — A Holmdel teen has been officially named as the recipient of the Jersey Shore YMCA Youth Changemaker Award for her work in youth leadership programs and the difference she’s made in her community.

Annika Raj, a senior at Biotechnology High School, was selected for the award for her strong involvement in youth leadership programs and her continued efforts to uplift those around her, officials said.

The YMCA Youth Changemaker Award recognizes a student who demonstrates leadership, service, and dedication to helping others.

“Being a Changemaker means doing whatever you can in your power to uplift others and problem-solve in your community,” Raj said. “I am honored to accept this award, and in the name of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., I encourage everyone to be a changemaker in the spaces they are a part of.”

Throughout high school, Raj has been actively involved in the YMCA’s Youth & Government program, officials said.

During her first year, she helped pass a student-led bill to lower the school board voting age to 16 and was elected as a Youth & Government state officer, a leadership role that supports student delegates across New Jersey.

As a junior, she served as a state officer again and helped lead more than 400 student delegates through bill writing, committee leadership, and collaboration at the statewide level.

Raj also ran for governor within the Youth & Government program, leading a campaign that included outreach events, a statewide tour, and a live question-and-answer session in front of more than 400 students.

In Washington, D.C., she was one of two students selected to represent the New Jersey YMCAs when she spoke with lawmakers and helped advocate for funding to support YMCA programs.

She also attended the Conference on National Affairs, where she earned the National Outstanding Statesman Award.

This year, Raj continues to serve as a state officer while helping lead the Jersey Shore Model United Nations and supporting Youth & Government delegations across New Jersey.

Outside of the YMCA, she is involved in Civic Leaders of America and student government at Biotechnology High School.

She is also an actress and dancer and has been recognized by the Count Basie Center for the Arts and Montclair State University for her work in theater and dance.

Going forward, Raj plans to study public policy in college on a pre-law track and hopes to work as an attorney, combining her interests in the arts and the law.

On Jan. 16, Raj was honored during the YMCA of the Jersey Shore’s 37th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Breakfast.

The annual event honors individuals who reflect Dr. King’s values of service, leadership, and community involvement.

To learn more about youth leadership with the YMCA, you can click here.