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Let’s talk about something that changed my life—and might just change yours too.
I was one of the recipients of the Ten Outstanding Young Americans (TOYA) award back in 2023. And if I’m being honest, when I first got the email saying I’d been nominated, my brain immediately went into full-on imposter mode. “Why me?” “There are way more impressive people out there.” “They must’ve sent this to the wrong Ky.”
But they didn’t. And that night in Minnesota, standing beside people who had cured diseases, led social justice movements, and—you know—casually managed NBA teams, I realized something important: our impact doesn’t need to be loud to be meaningful.
What is the Ten Outstanding Young Americans Award?
The TOYA award is run by JCI USA, a national organization that recognizes ten people each year between the ages of 18 and 40 who are making real, positive change. It’s not about being the most famous or having the most followers. It’s about people doing the work—quietly, consistently, from the heart.
There are ten categories for the award: business, politics, academia, cultural achievement, moral leadership, human rights, humanitarian work, science, personal growth, and medical innovation. But at the end of the day, every TOYA honoree is united by one thing: they care deeply about making the world better.
My Chat with Chris Thompson, National Vice President of JCI USA
I recently had the chance to sit down with Chris Thompson, one of the national leaders of JCI USA, on my podcast. He’s been part of the organization since 2018 and is now helping lead the TOYA program.
We talked about his journey, how he went from car sales and Navy service to national leadership, and what drives him to keep showing up.
One thing that really stuck with me? He said this:
“You might feel like no one sees you, but someone always is.”
That hit me. Because a lot of us—especially those of us with ADHD, anxiety, or who identify as introverts—do feel invisible sometimes. We pour ourselves into our work, our communities, our healing… and wonder if it matters.
TOYA reminded me: it does.
“I’m Not Doing Enough” — Sound Familiar?
If you’ve ever thought:
- “My impact is too small”
- “I’m just one person”
- “Nobody notices the work I do”
You’re not alone. I’ve been there. Honestly, I still go there more often than I’d like.
But here’s the thing: every big movement starts with small moments. Every big award-winning project started as someone taking a first step. You don’t need to go viral to be valuable. You just need to show up. Consistently. With heart.
And organizations like JCI USA are paying attention to those small, consistent steps.
Why This Award Matters (Especially Now)
We live in a time where negativity spreads fast. Social media loves to boost the drama, the outrage, the scandal. But there’s something powerful about an organization that says, “Hey, let’s spotlight the people doing good.” And not just the flashy good—but the real, hard, behind-the-scenes kind.
That’s why TOYA exists. It’s not just an award. It’s a mirror. It reflects back the best of what we’re capable of—especially when the world feels heavy.
Think You Don’t Belong? You Do.
When I was selected for TOYA, I genuinely felt out of place. I’m just a guy who makes videos in his living room about ADHD and mental health. But what I’ve come to learn is this:
There’s power in telling your story. There’s value in being real.
Your impact matters. Whether you’re teaching kids, building a business, caring for your community, or just trying to be a little kinder today than you were yesterday… that matters.
Chris said during our chat that every project starts small—and JCI USA is there to help people like us grow those projects into something that lasts.
Want to Get Involved?
If you’re between 18 and 40 and want to grow your leadership, give back to your community, or even nominate someone (or yourself) for the next TOYA class, check out JCI USA. They’ve got chapters all over the country.
And if you’re not sure where to start, just show up to a local meeting. Meet people. Ask questions. It’s low pressure, high support. My kind of vibe.
Want More Support Like This?
If you’ve ever felt like your brain is running five tabs too many and you’re trying to do good in the world while also trying not to forget your keys or overthink every text you send… I got you.
My guidebook, Navigating ADHD as an Introvert, breaks down how I manage leadership, visibility, and impact without burning out or masking who I am. It’s written for people like us—quiet disruptors, deeply-feeling doers, and anyone just trying to survive adulthood with ADHD and anxiety.
Recap
In this post, I shared how the Ten Outstanding Young Americans award helped me see that my work matters—and that yours does too. I also introduced you to Chris Thompson and JCI USA, and how they’re building the next generation of diverse, thoughtful leaders.
5 Key Takeaways:
- The TOYA award recognizes real people doing real work—not just celebrities or influencers.
- You don’t have to be loud to make a difference.
- Organizations like JCI USA help everyday people grow into impactful leaders.
- Your story, no matter how small it feels, has value.
- Feeling like you’re not doing enough doesn’t mean you aren’t already making an impact.
FAQ
Q. What is the Ten Outstanding Young Americans award?
A. It’s a national award run by JCI USA that honors ten young people each year (ages 18–40) who are making a positive difference in their communities.
Q. Can I nominate myself for TOYA?
A. Yes! And you should. If you’re doing good work, don’t wait for someone else to validate it. You’re allowed to recognize your own impact.
Q. I don’t think I’m doing anything “big enough.” Should I still apply?
A. 100%. Every big movement starts small. If you’re making a difference—no matter the size—you’re already doing the work.
Q. Is JCI USA only for people who want to win awards?
A. Not at all. JCI is a leadership development and service organization. TOYA is just one piece of what they do.
Q. Does Ky offer clinical advice?
A. Nope! I’m just sharing what’s helped me. Always talk to a licensed professional if you need medical or mental health support.
Much love. Good vibes. – Ky
