Nicole Williams Honored as Outstanding Youth Advocate by Florida’s Children First

November 17, 2025

Maya Angelou once said, “I can be changed by what happens to me, but I refuse to be reduced by it.”

This quote comes to mind when we think of Florida Children’s First 2025 Youth Advocate of the Year, Nicole Williams. Ms. Williams is a sophomore at Florida Atlantic University pursuing a degree in psychology with a 3.85 GPA. She is involved in various clubs on campus, works three jobs, is the youth representative for the Treasure Coast Alliance (with Carol Deloach), and is also the current president of the Treasure Coast Dream Catchers Chapter of Florida Youth Shine.

Nicole started off her speech with Jeremiah 29:11–12: “For I know the plans that I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” She said, “The reasons that I came into foster care were devastating, but I have learned through my faith and support from special mentors in my life that my pain can drive my purpose. My love for my siblings keeps me motivated because I want to show them that they can do anything and not let their circumstances define them.”

Resilience, grace, determination, and a joy for life are just a few words to describe her. During her speech, Nicole shared that her faith and love for her siblings keep her motivated. She said that this grounds her and keeps her focused. She even mentioned it during her speech, stating that looking out into the crowd, seeing the faces, and feeling the love from the people who have helped shape her destiny was profound. These were her words, not ours. She said that she has NEVER felt so accomplished and loved as she did last night.

She wanted us to convey her thanks and stated that she hopes she is making us proud—that on the days when she feels overwhelmed, she thinks back on the conversations she has had with Ms. Litty and me, and she remembers her “why.”

Ms. Williams is truly an inspiration not only to Ms. Litty and me, who have been honored to mentor her on this journey, but to all that she encounters.

Written by Margie Dotson