Final Explosion Entertainment, home of the Chicago Youth Awards.
The date is approaching fast and we’re making preparations. Don’t miss out!
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The Chicago Youth Awards was established to give Chicago’s youth a true red carpet experience, celebrate young people making a real difference in our community, and empower the next generation to dream bigger, reach higher, and become catalysts for positive change.
Meet 7-year old Emmy Extra: a rising young superstar from the South Side of Chicago and the 2025 Chicago Youth Awards Junior Youth Entertainer of the Year. Now hosting the 2026 awards, Emmy is ready to light up the stage and celebrate the incredible talents of her peers.
Emmy is a straight-A second-grader, a passionate performer, and a girl with dreams as big as the city itself. She’s performed in places like Brooklyn, Milwaukee, Detroit, Chattanooga, Atlanta, and of course, right here in Chicago. But no matter where she goes, Chicago is home, and she’s excited to reconnect with all the amazing youth artists again this year.
Family is everything to Emmy. With a big family full of cousins, uncles, aunts, grandparents, and her mom, she absolutely loves them all. She also has a huge heart for giving back, saving her allowance to help those in need and volunteering whenever she can.
And there’s more—Emmy is a science lover who dreams of becoming an oncology doctor. She’s set her sights on Emory University, one of the top medical schools that shares her name. For her, music is a stepping stone to fund her path to becoming a doctor, and she’s already working on her first album this summer.
So get ready to be inspired by Emmy Extra, the young star with a huge heart, a love for her city, and dreams that reach for the stars.

🎟️ Early Bird Tickets are NOW AVAILABLE for just $12!
Don’t wait—secure your seats today:
👉 https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2026-chicago-youth-awards-tickets-1979175675724
Bring your kids, your family, your organization—EVERYBODY! Group rates are available, and if you can’t attend, you can still support by purchasing tickets for a group or sponsoring youth to attend.
✨ Join us for the 2026 Chicago Youth Awards, a powerful red carpet experience for kids, at:
Kehrein Center for the Arts
5628 W Washington Blvd, Chicago
📅 July 26, 2026
Now we’re calling on our community to show up BIG! Help us make this the largest youth celebration in Chicago!
💳 Ways to Donate & Support:
• Zelle: final.explosion@yahoo.com
• Check: Available for pickup upon request
• Online: www.finalexplosionent.com
Every donation helps us create unforgettable moments and celebrate the amazing youth across the Chicagoland area.
Let’s come together, show love, and give our kids the red carpet experience they deserve! 💫🔥
Youth Impact Award – My Block, My City, My Hood
🏆 2026 Chicago Youth Awards – Impact Award Honoree 🏆
Congratulations to Jahmal Cole, Founder & CEO of My Block, My Hood, My City, on receiving the 2026 Chicago Youth Awards Impact Award.
Your leadership, service, and dedication to uplifting Chicago’s youth and families continue to inspire our city. Thank you for making a lasting impact through community, education, and empowerment.
Well deserved. Chicago salutes you. ❤️🏙️✨

We are excited to announce that the nominees for the 2026 Chicago Youth Awards are now available below! Congratulations on your nomination! If you’ve been nominated, please confirm your acceptance by emailing final.explosion@yahoo.com with (1) a current photo, (2) the name of your school if applicable, and (3) confirmation that you'll attend the event. Each nominee receives free entry and may bring one guest for free. This is a red-carpet event for youth, and there will be a Best Dressed prize—so come ready to impress! Once again, congratulations!
Best Dressed
· K Dior
· LJ A Chicago Kid
· Harper Anthony
Dad of the Year
· Mike Woods
· Anthony Shields -
· Terrance Sirleaf
· Young Chock
· Chris Ward
Mom of the Year
· Ashley Coleman
· Lashawanda Williams
· Angel Wiggins-Heggs
· Jazmyne Shante
· Saavedra Lewis
YOUTH MVP AWARD
· Super Te Major
· Kamari Jones
· The Real Rockstar Jason-
· Emmy Extra
YOUTH HUMANITARIAN AWARD
· Collin Williams- University of Chicago Laboratory school
· Kyran Oliver - Lewis Elementary
YOUTH DANCE TEAM
Junior
· Geek Skquad
· Astronaut Flee
· MSB Dance
· MVP Allstars
Senior
· Creative Mindz dance team
· X2 Dance Crew
· Empiire Dance Team
· Legacy School of Performing Arts
· Ultimate Threat Dance Org.
YOUTH CHEER TEAM
Junior
· Leland Cheer Team
· Brooks Academic Center
· Eternal Cheer
· Black Onyx
· Dewey School of Excellence
Senior
· Proviso West Cheer
· Kenwood Academy
· Chicago Bulls High School
ACADEMIC ATHLETE OF THE YEAR
Junior
· Jason Cross –University of Chicago Laboratory school
· Caydenn Anthony - Mac Irvin Lady Fire
· Aiden Mayes – Depriest Elementary
· General Waters -
· Cali-Rae Hollingworth – Mac Irving Lady Fire
Senior
· Kamari Jones -
· Elijah Sirleaf – Illinois Vikings Football
· Cameron Fox – Dyett High School
· Jayden King – Simeon High School
ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR
Junior
· B Queen
· Kid BJ -
· Khi Got the Clout
· K Dior
· Lia Moski
Senior
· Littygangtwins -North Lawndale College Prep
· Zia Jenaye
· HBK Kash
· 21 Rakks – Austin High School
HOTTEST TWINS OF THE YEAR
· Litty Gang Twins – Lawndale College prep
· Kayce & Kayden Carter
· Malik & Malikai Kianez
YOUTH SCHOLAR OF THE YEAR
Junior
· Nivea Ewing – Depriest Elementary
· Langston Zolicoffer – Kip Elementary
· Levar Elliott – Beasley Academic Center
· Garon Sweeting Jr – Bronzeville Classical
Senior
· Azariah – Chicago Bulls College Prep
· Lael Managuit – Westinghouse HS
· Soloman Murray – Kenwood Academy HS
· De’Zire Davis – Muchin College prep
· Mohanned Toure – Michelle Clark HS
YOUTH ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR –
· Black King Clothing
· Troy Collins (Alabortay)
· Colin Williams - University of Chicago Laboratory School
· Harper Anthony – Lindbloom HS
YOUTH ORGANIZATION OF THE YEAR
· I Am A Gentleman
· Boxing Out Negativity
· Chi Jumping Juniors
· True Star Media
· Box United
YOUTH CONTENT CREATOR OF THE YEAR
· Tylie Jhene
· Alex Hunter - University of Chicago Laboratory School
· Lia Moski
· Jayven Funny
· Skin bone kids

STUDENT ATHLETE OF THE YEAR (JUNIOR)
-CT Marsmillow
STUDENT ATHLETE OF THE YEAR (SENIOR)
· Malachi Henigan – Brother Rice HS
YOUTH ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR (JUNIOR) )
· Emmy Extra
YOUTH ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR (SENIOR)
-Zia Jenaye
YOUTH CHOIR OF THE YEAR
· Leo High School
YOUTH CHEER TEAM OF THE YEAR (JUNIORS)
-Cheer Destiny
YOUTH CHEER TEAM OF THE YEAR (SENIORS)
-Chicago Infinity Cheer
YOUTH SCHOLAR OF THE YEAR (junior)
- Skylar Wallace - Disney Magnet
YOUTH SCHOLAR OF THE YEAR (SENIOR)
· Egypt Murray – Kenwood High School
YOUTH ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR
· Jade & Joy Lee
YOUTH COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS
· Steppenwolf Theater Young Adult Council
YOUTH CONTENT CREATOR
· Jade & Joy Lee
Youth Hip Hop Artist of the year (Junior)
· LJ, A Chicago Kid
Youth Hip hop artist (senior)
-Litty Gang Twinzz
Youth Dance team of the year (junior)
· Empiire
Youth dance team of the year (seniors)
· Astronaut Flee
Hottest Twins of the year
· Litty Gang Twinzz
YOUTH MVP of the Year
· Collin Williams – University of Chicago Laboratory School
Drill Team of The Year
-South Shore Drill Team
YOUTH CROWD ROCKER
-Khi Got the Clout

At just 15 years old, this talented DJ showcases his versatility by mastering seven musical instruments. As a dedicated student-athlete and entrepreneur, he excels academically as an honor student at the prestigious University of Chicago Laboratory School, where he is proudly navigating his freshman year. His impressive skills also extend to event management, as he takes on the important role of overseeing crowd control at the upcoming 2025 Chicago Youth Awards.
Introducing, Music Note Kid.

Khi, known as "Khi Got the Clout," is an unstoppable force at just 8 years old. This talented actor and hip-hop artist from the vibrant South Side of Chicago is already making waves. Currently in the second grade, he stands out as an honor student at ITAV Charter School, which exemplifies the spirit of community and achievement.
Though he may be small, his talent is immense. Last year, he claimed the prestigious title of "Hip Hop Artist of the Year," proving he’s a true trailblazer in his craft. This year, he’s taking the stage as the charismatic host of the Chicago Youth Awards, where he will inspire and captivate his audience. Keep a close eye on this rising star—his journey is just beginning!
The La Shawn K. Ford Humanitarian Award is given to a single child that has performed an extraordinary act of kindheartedness or service to the community. This young person has demonstrated goodwill, compassion for the less fortunate, and has worked diligently to care for others.
2025 La Shawn K Ford Humanitarian Award Recipient
Harper Anthony
Harper Anthony is a 12-year-old entrepreneur, actor, model, and youth advocate. He is the owner of Harper Anthony, LLC where he operates a successful visual media company called Harpix Visions 360. In an effort to bring more attention and acknowledgement to youth on positive paths, especially academically, Harper recently launched a nonprofit called “The Build Different Initiative.” As the founder and CEO, Harper is looking to build anti-violence programs while partnering with businesses and organizations to offer incentives to youth for academic and behavioral achievement. Additionally, Harper serves as the youngest board member of Raw Talent Performing Arts, NFP, as a youth community advocate and enjoys participating in community service efforts.
Harper has been in the fashion industry since he was 3 years old. His love for modeling has landed him bookings with major brands resulting in magazine publications, national ads, and plenty of fashion shows in Chicago, Miami, Atlanta and in New York during New York Fashion Week. His sense of style, especially with suits, has caught the attention of millions, branding him the title, “The Kid with the Suits.” Several of his photos have gone viral, being shared by millions around the world and celebrities including Chris Brown, Ludacris, Tracee Ellis Ross, Common, and more. As an actor, Harper has had the luxury of co-staring in a series, booking regional and national commercials, a stage play at the famous Goodman Theatre, and even is in a Disney series that will debut next year.
Harper continues to excel in the classroom as well. He has earned 20 consecutive quarters of straight As, was accepted into the Monster Education Foundation Program, the National Junior Honor Society, and currently attends the 6-year Academic Center program at Lindblom Math & Science Academy where he holds a 5.0 GPA. Harper is also the 2022 Foley and Lardner MLK Oratory Competition Winner, Excellence in Entrepreneurship Award recipient, The BE Impactful Award recipient, 2024 Chicago Youth Award MVP, and a Student Ambassador for the Collaborative for Academic Social and Emotional Learning. No stranger to sports either, Harper is a soccer player, volleyball player, basketball champion, and a 2x Flag Football champion where was the starting Quarterback.
Harper Anthony intends to continue his academic success and attend either Howard University or Morehouse College. Although he never wants to stop acting, he plans to pursue a career in Law and ultimately run for President of the United States in 2048.

The Chicago Youth Awards is delighted to present the 2025 Youth Impact Award. This distinguished award celebrates a profound commitment to transforming the lives of at-risk youth throughout the Chicagoland area. This year, we are proud to honor The Jesse White Tumblers, a remarkable organization founded in 1959. Their extraordinary dedication has illuminated the path for countless young men, offering hope, support, and invaluable opportunities when they need it most. The legacy of the Jesse White Tumblers in uplifting at-risk youth continues to inspire us all, reminding us of the power of community and compassion. Please join us in warmly welcoming and congratulating the Jesse White Tumblers for their decades of success and their enduring impact on our community.
· CT Marsmillow
· Pharrell Bryan
· Zaire (Zairegotskills)
· Malachi Henigan – Brother Rice HS
· Achilles Anderson
· Kenric Williams – Kenwood High School
· Jahkil Jackson – Crane High School
· Elijah Sirleaf
· Justice Metcalf
· Zaire (Zairegotskills)
· Lia Moski
· Emmy Extra
· Zia Janaye
· Kid Fusion
· Melissa Moreira
· Cory Dean Jr
· Soul Children of Chicago
· Leo High School
· Uniting Voices of Austin
· Chaos Bulldogs
· Cheer Destiny
· Cheer Extreme AllStars
· CBY Cheer
· TES Cheer
· Kenwood High School
· Michelle Clark High School
Hales Franciscan HS
Chicago Infinity Cheer
· Chicago Bulls High School
Abigail Davis – Holy Angels School
Khi
Skylar Wallace
· Tyler Rush (IMSA)
· Colin Williams
· Jamiyah Abraham – Prosser High School
· Egypt Murray – Kenwood High School
· Jade & Joy Lee
· Serenity Sweets Deluxe
· Dylan Hawkins – Distressed Clothing
· Lil Drippy (Cohl Da King)
· Tay – Hardlife LLC
· CircEsteem
· Steppenwolf Theater Young Adult Council
· Guitars Over Guns
· Ladies of Virtue
· The Bloc Chicago
· Emmy Extra
· Jade & Joy Lee
· LJ, A Chicago Kid
· Lia Moski
· Lil Drippy
· LJ, A Chicago Kid
· KY From The Chi
· Kid BJ
· Khi
· CT Marsmillow
· Lil M.U.
· Star Bandz
· Baby Chief Do it
Litty Gang Twinzz
· Sankofa Dance
· RIZE Youth Company
· Empiire
· Royalty Elite
· Black Girls Dance
· Astronaut Flee
· Ultimate Threat Dance Team
· Julian High School
· Trap House Dance Team
· Chicago Tech Academy High School
· Litty Gang Twins
· Kayce & Kayson
· Samirah & Sorayah
· Collin Williams – University of Chicago Laboratory School
· LJ, A Chicago Kid
· Tyler Rush -Illinois Math & Science Academy
Youth Humanitarian Award – Jakhil Jackson -Crane High School
Youth MVP Award – Harper Anthony – Lindbloom High School
Youth Choir of the Year - Austin Neighborhood Choir, UNITING VOICES
Student Athlete of the Year (Elementary) – LAMONT BRUCE – BURNHAM SCHOOL
Student Athlete of the Year (High School ) – DERRICK DAVIS – LEO HIGH SCHOOL
Youth Organization of the Year - BUILD Chicago
Youth Entertainer of the Year (Elementary) – LJ A Chicago Kid
Youth Entertainer of the Year (High School) – Zia Jenaye
Youth Model of the Year – Tia james
Youth Entrepreneur of the Year – Distressed Clothing – Dylan Hawkins
Cheer Team of the Year ( Elementary )– Kaos Bulldogs
Cheer Team of the Year (High School) Lady Warriors
Youth Scholar of the Year – Bri’Nyiah Washington – St Lutheran School
Youth Content Creator of the Year – Skylar Wallace
Youth Drill Team of the Year – Golden Knights Drill Team
Youth Hip Hop Artist of the Year – Khi
Youth Dance Team of the Year (Juniors) Ultimate Threat Dance Team
Youth Dance Team of the Year (Seniors) Empiire Dance Company
Crowd Rocker – Landon Reed
KARTER MALONE - WHISTLER ELEMENTARY
DAKOTA SIRLEAF - CATALYST CIRCLE ROCK
LAMONT BRUCE - BURNHAM ELEMENTARY
CAYDEN HILLIARD - ROBERT BLACK ELEMENTARY
ELIJAH SIRLEAF - DE LASALLE HS
Kiaya Johnson - KIAYA JOHNSON - WHITNEY YOUNG HS
TAYLEN REED - BUTLER COLLEGE PREP
DEVIN CLEVELAND - KENWOOD HS
PRESTON HUJBAR - ST LAURENCE HS
DERRICK DAVIS - LEO HS
J Leel Tha Boss
CT Marsmillow
LJ A Chicago Kid
SKYLAR WALLACE
LITTY GANG TWINS
Zia Jenaye
Blake Shaffer
KID FUSION
TUTTIE
DECLAN CHILDS
LEO HIGH SCHOOL
AUSTIN NEIGHBORHOOD CHOIR, UNITING VOICES
ST SABINA YOUTH CHOIR
BS ROSEBUD CHOIR OF MESSIAH TEMPLE
CHOZEN YOUTH CHOIR, LIGHTHOUSE OF ALL NATIONS CHURCH
TES ATHLETICS ALLSTAR CHEER
CHICAGO STORM ALL STARS
CHEER DESTINY ALL STARS
KAOS BULLDOGS CHEER
TECHNIQUE GEMS
LADY WARRIORS
TECHNIQUE GEMS
PROSSER ACADEMY CHEER
LADY TROJANS CHEER
CRANE MED PREP CHEER
Tia James
Bryson Alexander
LJ A Chicago Kid
Dhenim Kaye
NIVEA SANDAVOL
DISTRESSED CLOTHING - DYLAN HAWKINS
RILEY’S WAY FOUNDATION
BELA NOELLE -
A CHICAGO KID APPAREL - LJ, A CHICAGO KID
Osheanna Tyler Hudson
Bri'Nyiah Washington
Lyn'Nayzah Washington
DARION MITCHELL
BUILD CHICAGO
THIS IS LIFE
KIDS KORNER
AFTER SCHOOL MATTERS
FATHERS WHO CARE YOUTH INTERNSHIP
SKYLAR WALLACE
ZIA JENAYE
JACOB HILL
K5FIVEE
NEW GENERATION DRILL TEAM
SOUTH SHORE DRILL TEAM
GOLDEN KNIGHTS DRILL TEAM
GEEK SKQUAD
ULTIMATE THREAT DANCE CORP
GOLDEN ELITE DANCE TEAM
NEXT LEVEL
SECOND II NONE PERFORMANCE ACADEMY
DANCE FORCE ELITE
EMPIRE DANCE COMPANY
ASTRONAUT FLEE
BOT DANCE TEAM
TRAP HOUSE DANCE
J Leel Tha Boss
LJ A Chicago Kid
King Youngin
STAR BANDZ
KHI
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