The Talented Teen Club (TTC) held its Awards of Excellence Talent Gala, an inspiring evening that showcased the remarkable accomplishments of its youth and honored community leaders, sponsors and alumni. The event, held Sunday, Dec. 1 at Seasons 52 in Palm Beach Gardens, featured dynamic performances, heartfelt speeches and the unveiling of an exciting vision for a state-of-the-art facility that will expand TTC’s mission of empowering at-risk youth.
Mistresses of ceremony for the event were TTC alums Paola Hector and Renae Williams. The gala opened with stunning musical renditions by Marchella Pimentel and an electrifying dance routine by Yuki Vologodskaya, Jerico Rios and Abigail Shkop from Fred Astaire Dance Studios. Rising star Isabella Velasquez delivered a show-stopping performance.
Keynote speaker Shericka Ward, a former collegiate track and field athlete turned legal advocate, inspired attendees with her journey from sports to law and her ongoing dedication to serving underrepresented communities.
Founder and CEO Shawn Ho-Hing King announced plans for a new TTC facility in Palm Beach County, featuring classrooms, vocational labs, wellness areas, and creative spaces for arts and athletics. This project aims to empower even more youth in the years to come.
The evening honored exceptional individuals with awards, including Philanthropist of the Year to Kellen Coleman, Athlete of the Year to Braden Parris, Entrepreneur of the Year to Akiyah Stewart, Most Improved Student to Ja’Miya Walker, Mothers of the Year to Kerlande Polynice and Kerrilyn Daniel, and a Lifetime Achievement Award to Dr. Monique Barbour.
The gala underscored the vital role of partnerships in TTC’s success, with support from sponsors like the Henry Nias Foundation, the Palm Beach Post, Siebert Williams Shank, Chocolate Bamboo, Truist Bank, Wellington Regional Medical Center, Salon Café and more. The event culminated in a heartfelt message of gratitude from Ho-Hing King, who expressed her commitment to building a legacy of empowerment, opportunity and hope.
Since 2005, the Talented Teen Club has provided at-risk youth with educational, vocational and personal development opportunities to build self-esteem and achieve success. Learn more at www.talentedteenclub.org.
