When asked why she thought she was picked for Boys & Girls Club Youth of the Year, Tavahny had a simple answer: “Because I’m just like that.”

On a recent day, one of the kids she tutors had a similar sentiment: “’Cause I felt like she was supposed to win.”

Prompted, Tavahny expanded.

“Because I love the kids. I love tutoring the kids and mentoring them to help them know they have potential in life to do whatever they want,” Tavahny said.

One of her mentees agreed. 

“Thumbs up! She really deserves it … She stayed because she really likes the club and she really likes the people and playing and having fun,” Connor said.

Tavahny has been part of the group since she was 7 — at age 16, she began tutoring and mentoring younger kids in the group. Now about to turn 19, Tavahny is looking to the future.

“I am determined to go to college, and fulfill my potential,” she told The Beacon. 

To that end, Tavahny is on the lookout for full scholarships. 

As a senior at DeLand High School, with an honor roll GPA of 3.9, Tavahny participates in the United Poetry Club, DeLand Poets Society, and is a member of the Principal Advisory Council.