5 minute read
Spring 2025 Newsletter
As a Bakersfield High School junior, Joseph Frank is already making a name for himself in the world of performing arts. But his remarkable dedication, passion, and talent, has also earned him the prestigious 2025 Youth of the Year award from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County—an honor awarded to a Club member who has demonstrated outstanding leadership, service, academic excellence and a dedication to living a healthy lifestyle.
Joseph’s journey to becoming Youth of the Year wasn’t done overnight. It is the culmination of years of hard work, countless hours of practice, and an unshakable belief in his ability to succeed. As a child, Joseph was always drawn to the stage. “I was always inspired by performers who graced the stage with confidence and talent. Their passion moved me deeply, and over time, it influenced my decision to pursue a career in the arts.”
Joseph’s dedication to the arts began early. In 4th grade, he decided to join his school’s drama program, where he met Frank Sierra, a staple of youth theater in the area and a key figure in Joseph’s formative years. Through Frank’s guidance, Joseph participated in school plays, where he became fascinated by every aspect of the arts— the choreography, singing, costumes, sets—everything was a new experience for Joseph. “At first,
I was intimidated by the complexity of it all, but Frank encouraged me not to be afraid and motivated me to become the best performer I could be.”
As Joseph’s talent and skills continued to grow, Frank recognized his potential and eventually encouraged him to audition for BGCKC’s performing arts group, Music Fusion. “Music Fusion was unlike anything I had ever done before. The music was challenging at first, and although I excelled at dance, balancing both disciplines was difficult. However, Music Fusion offered a supportive community where mistakes were welcomed as opportunities to learn. My peers motivated me to push further and work harder to achieve my goals. With each performance came new experiences that taught me more about myself and the people around me.”
It was Joseph’s passion for using the arts to impact his community that caught the attention of BGCKC staff, who encouraged him to compete for this year’s Youth of the Year award. Joseph was selected for his leadership in the organization’s performing arts program, where he not only performs but helps to lead the group as well. “My time with the group has also come with new responsibilities. We take turns leading warm-ups or helping shape songs, which has taught me leadership skills and patience. I’ve even become a team choreographer, challenging myself to create and teach choreography in various genres. These experiences have not only helped me grow as an artist but have also instilled in me valuable life lessons and character traits I will continue to carry with me throughout my career.”
The Youth of the Year award comes with a
scholarship and an opportunity to represent BGCKC at various community events throughout the year, as well as at regional, state and national Youth of the Year competitions for Boys & Girls Clubs of America. For Joseph, however, the true honor lies in the chance to continue using his platform to inspire others. “ I believe that by using the skills and experiences provided by my local club, I could be a role model for not only my community’s youth but youth across the nation. I’m excited to bring my local efforts to a larger scale. Through mentorship and support, I hope to inspire the next generation to take the first step toward their own success, just as others did for me.”
Aside from his work with BGCKC, Joseph is involved in various school and community projects. He is currently serving as Junior Class President at BHS and Student Advisory Board Representative for Kern High School District. In addition, he is involved with the dance club, drama club, economics club, ecology club, and the Spanish honor society at Bakersfield High School. He also teaches dance to youth at various organizations in the area. “I’m heavily involved, often looking for ways to better my campus and help the student body. These positions have taught me abilities such as leadership, conflict resolution, and how to connect with and understand my peers.”
Looking to the future, Joseph plans to attend college and then pursue a career in the arts. He envisions a world where the arts are accessible to all, and where
young people from all walks of life have the opportunity to develop their talents and use them for the greater good. Joseph acknowledges that he would not be where he is today if it weren’t for his mother, Christy. “One of my most influential role models, my mother, is also my biggest supporter. She has sacrificed so much for me. Much of the energy and passion behind my performances comes from seeing my mom’s face in the crowd.”
With his boundless energy, unwavering dedication, and a clear vision for his future, Joseph Frank is a shining example of what it means to use one’s talents not just for personal success, but for the benefit of others. As a rising star in the performing arts and a dedicated advocate for his community, Joseph’s story is a reminder of the power of creativity, compassion, and hard work. And with the Youth of the Year award under his belt, it’s only the beginning of what promises to be an extraordinary journey.
