Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County announced its 2026 Bigs of the Year in celebration of National Mentoring Month, recognizing exceptional volunteers, partners and staff whose dedication has made a lasting impact on local youth.
This year’s honorees include Big Brother of the Year Alexander Salow, Big Sister of the Year Selina Hightower, High School Big Brother of the Year Josiah Ferguson, High School Big Sister of the Year Juliana Pineda, Igniters of Big Futures Broward County State Attorney’s Office, Defender of Potential Michelle McNab-Hemans, and Employee of the Year Monica Venegas.
BBBS of Broward County supports more than 1,000 active Big and Little matches, making these recognitions especially meaningful. “Their level of dedication to the Littles in our program is exemplary and a testament to the mission of our organization,” said Malena Mendez, President and CEO. “They are true mentors, guiding young people toward confidence, resilience and a stronger future.”
Big Brother of the Year Alexander Salow has spent five years mentoring his Little, Tyren, building a relationship rooted in trust, curiosity and shared experiences that range from hands-on science activities to outdoor adventures. Beyond his match, Salow serves on the Big Impact Squad, helping spread awareness of BBBS and inspire others to mentor.
Big Sister of the Year Selina Hightower, a retired Hollywood Police Lieutenant, has devoted her life to service. Through the Bigs in Blue program and beyond, she has mentored two Littles with compassion and consistency, while also volunteering and leading within BBBS fundraising and scholarship initiatives.
High school honorees Josiah Ferguson and Juliana Pineda exemplify the power of peer mentorship. Ferguson, a senior at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, has spent three years helping his Little grow in confidence and independence. Pineda, a senior at American Heritage School, has mentored multiple Littles while serving as club president, recruiting new Bigs and fostering a culture of service among her peers.
The Broward County State Attorney’s Office was named Igniters of Big Futures for its partnership with BBBS, providing monthly mentorship through its BIG Futures program. Defender of Potential honoree Michelle McNab-Hemans was recognized for connecting students to life-changing mentors, scholarships and career opportunities. Employee of the Year Monica Venegas was honored for her outstanding commitment to supporting dozens of Big and Little matches with compassion and excellence.
All honorees will be celebrated at the Big Thank You Breakfast presented by Bank of America on Wednesday, January 21, from 8:30 to 10 a.m. at the Miramar Cultural Center, recognizing the collective power of mentorship to ignite the promise of Broward County’s youth.
