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From Club Member to Community Leader: BGCCA Celebrates Youth Development Professional Nyhgi Berry
- Christopher Alexander
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
Boys & Girls Clubs of the Capital Area (BGCCA) is proud to recognize Nyhgi Berry, a Youth Development Professional at the Albany Clubhouse, whose journey reflects the life-changing power of mentorship, opportunity, and community support.
Nyhgi Berry first walked through the doors of the Albany Clubhouse in 2021 at just 17 years old, newly relocated from Queens, NY, and enrolled as a junior at Albany High School after transferring from the High School for Law Enforcement and Public Safety. Like many young people navigating a major transition, Nyhgi was looking for stability, belonging, and direction. He found all three at the Boys & Girls Club.
Quickly embracing the Club as a “home away from home,” Nyhgi became an active member of the Teen Program under the leadership of David Gordon, then Program Manager of the Albany Clubhouse. Nyhgi distinguished himself by volunteering his time and energy—mentoring younger members, assisting with events and field trips, and participating in the Club’s Violence Prevention Program.
Recognizing his leadership potential, BGCCA selected Nyhgi as a Junior Staff member through a paid workforce development program sponsored by the Touhey Foundation. In this role, he supported Summer Camp programming and Teen Night initiatives, gaining hands-on experience in youth development while strengthening his professional skills.
After graduating from Albany High School, Nyhgi took on the challenge of living independently while enrolling at Hudson Valley Community College, where he pursued studies in Business. When he needed employment to support himself, he returned to the place that had already invested so much in him—the Club.
Now serving as Regional Director, David Gordon hired Nyhgi as a part-time Youth Development Professional, completing a full-circle moment from Club teen to staff mentor.
While continuing his college education, Nyhgi pursued barbering, becoming an apprentice at Creative Barber Lounge, and launched his own barber imprint, Nu Wave Cuts. Each Friday during Teen Night, Nyhgi provides free haircuts to Club participants—using his craft to build confidence, strengthen relationships, and create a safe, affirming space for teens. What began as a skill quickly became another meaningful form of mentorship.
Nyhgi also demonstrated his entrepreneurial drive by founding Alter Vision Vending LLC, a New York State–registered vending machine business. In late 2025, with guidance and encouragement from mentors, family, and community members, Nyhgi made the decision to serve his country by enlisting in the New York State National Guard. He was officially sworn in on December 12, 2025, and will depart for basic training on February 9, 2026.
“Nyhgi’s story is exactly why the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Capital Area exists” said David Gordon. “He is proof that when young people are supported, believed in, and given real opportunities, they don’t just succeed—they come back to lift others. They are enabled to reach their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens.”
BGCCA wishes Nyhgi all of the best as he embarks on his great future!