Josiah Ferguson {Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County}
Seventeen-year-old Josiah Ferguson, a senior at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, has been named High School Big Brother of the Year by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County, earning top recognition for his commitment to mentoring younger students and helping them build confidence and independence.
Ferguson joined Big Brothers Big Sisters during his sophomore year. The idea of mentoring younger students resonated with him, and he envisioned the profound impact he could have on someone’s life simply by being present for them.
Over three years as a High School Big, he has focused on consistency and encouragement, watching his Little gain the confidence to complete homework independently, a milestone Ferguson said affirmed the impact of simply showing up and guiding with patience.
Big Brothers Big Sisters announced its 2026 Bigs of the Year in celebration of National Mentoring Month, honoring volunteers, educators, and partners whose dedication has positively shaped the lives of Broward County youth.
All honorees will be recognized at the Big Thank You Breakfast, presented by Bank of America, on Wednesday, Jan. 21, from 8:30 to 10 a.m. at the Miramar Cultural Center.
In addition to Ferguson, the 2026 honorees include Alexander Salow, named Big Brother of the Year, and Selina Hightower, named Big Sister of the Year, both recognized for years of consistent mentorship and deep relationships with their Littles. Juliana Pineda, a senior at American Heritage School in Plantation, was named High School Big Sister of the Year for her leadership as a student mentor and BBBS club president.
Also recognized were the Broward County State Attorney’s Office, honored as Igniters of Big Futures for its mentoring partnership; Michelle McNab-Hemans, named Defender of Potential for expanding life-changing opportunities for graduating seniors; and Monica Venegas, named Employee of the Year for her dedication to supporting dozens of active mentor matches.
“We are proud to have more than 1,000 active Big and Little matches, so it is quite an accomplishment for these individuals and organizations to rise to the top,” said Malena Mendez, president and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County. “Their level of dedication to the Littles in our program is exemplary and a testament to the mission of our organization.”
Tickets to the Big Thank You Breakfast are complimentary for active Bigs and $65 for guests. Registration is available at bbbsbroward.org.
For more than 50 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County has connected youth with caring mentors to build confidence, support academic success, and help young people reach their full potential.
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