It has been 10 years since the creation of the Center for Improving Youth Justice’s (CIYJ) Kids Got Talent Contest – a platform that celebrates resilience, storytelling, and self-expression for young people living in confinement. Since 2015, this contest has provided a transformative platform for youth living in incarceration to express their talents, reclaim their narratives, and remind us all of their humanity. KGT is not simply a talent show—it’s a celebration of resilience, creativity, and potential.
This year’s 51 entries were sent in from 13 different states and 15 different partner facilities, and feature talents such as original songs, rap, comedy, dance, and more. Each performance offered a glimpse into the lives, challenges, and hopes of our youth—delivered through authentic storytelling and raw artistry. Once again, these youth have shown us that it is not the sum of our past mistakes but the strength of our character to dream of a better future that defines us. With that, we are proud to announce the 2025 winners and finalists:
Winners:
- Group Winner: “Fighting Through the Pain” by Rayshawn M., Donnell M., Quadir B. and Daniel A. from Delaware Youth Rehabilitative Services – Ferris School – A collective rap performance created through open discussion and shared experience. Youth reflected on the pain they have endured and the struggles they face daily. Each performer channeled those experiences into lyrics that are vulnerable, powerful, and deeply moving.
- Individual Winner: “Letting Go” by Thomas O. from Maricopa County Juvenile Probation Department – Durango Juvenile Detention – An original song performed with vocals and guitar, this heartfelt piece explores the emotional journey of release and healing. The performer showcased exceptional musical and songwriting talent in a piece that connected powerfully with listeners.
Group Finalists:
- Hope” by Jamyrion H., Dwayne P., Keondre S., Ledarius G., Malachi S., Derek R. from Oklahoma Office of Juvenile Affairs – Central Oklahoma Juvenile Center – An original song written and performed by a group of youth about the lives they led before incarceration and the futures they envision beyond it. Their collaboration was marked by mutual encouragement and teamwork, creating a powerful message of healing and change.
- “If I Would’ve Known (Tribute)” by Dasean C., Johan A., Keisan G. and Rayshawn M. from Delaware Youth Rehabilitative Services – Ferris School – An emotional tribute song honoring a former student who was tragically killed by gun violence. Performed by his best friend and fellow students, this powerful performance gave voice to grief and remembrance, moving audiences to tears.
Individual Finalists:
- “Somewhere Just for Us” by Christopher H. from Wisconsin Division of Juvenile Corrections – Lincoln Hills School – This original song explores the challenges of sustaining a relationship while incarcerated. The youth’s musical journey—guided by facility’s music program—has taken him from novice to guitarist, vocalist, and aspiring music producer.
- “Comedy Skit “That Was a Crazy Day”” by Xavier D. from Pennsylvania Bureau of Juvenile Justice Services – North East Secure Treatment Unit – An original comedy routine that brought laughter and levity to the contest. The performer demonstrated sharp timing, humor, and storytelling skill.
- “Die to Live” by Maylia S. from Wisconsin Division of Juvenile Corrections – Lincoln Hills School – An emotionally raw rap debut centered on trauma, survival, and transformation. Inspired by peers’ use of music as an outlet, the performer turned deeply personal experiences into a powerful artistic statement.
- “Look at Me Now” by Tremonte K. from Wisconsin Division of Juvenile Corrections – Lincoln Hills School – A confident and uplifting rap performance celebrating personal growth, pride, and the ability to defy expectations.
- “Trying to Know” by Jose V. from Alaska Division of Juvenile Justice – McLaughlin Youth Center – A reflective song about navigating relationships and learning to build trust. The lyrics reveal a personal journey of discovery and emotional honesty.
- “Native Girl” by Xzaylah B. from Montana Juvenile Division, Department of Corrections – Pine Hills Correctional Facility – A powerful and proud performance honoring Indigenous identity and heritage. This song stands as an inspirational anthem of cultural pride and self-expression.
- “Drums on a Bucket” by D’Juan B. from Louisiana Youth Services, Office of Juvenile Justice – Swanson Center for Youth at Columbia – A rhythmic and creative performance using only a bucket as a drum. The artist showed that talent and innovation can shine without traditional instruments.
- “Leave a Light On” by RJ M. from Alaska Division of Juvenile Justice – McLaughlin Youth Center – A song dedicated to family, offering reassurance and hope from confinement. It reflects on being remembered, returning home, and choosing to seek light and build a new path forward.
We would like to thank all of the participants for sending their videos, as well as the staff who helped upload content and coordinate with our team!
Celebrating Talent and Resilience
The CIYJ Kids Got Talent Contest is more than just a talent show – it is a celebration of resilience, creativity and the boundless potential of young people. These finalists have honed their skills and found a way to express themselves and share their stories. Every year, the winner of KGT is invited to perform live at our Annual Gala in August—an incredible opportunity to shine on a national stage and to inspire others through their voice. We look forward to announcing this year’s winners and honoring them during our gala and national award ceremony. We eagerly await the gala in August and look forward to the inspiration this year’s winners will undoubtedly bring to our annual national award ceremony night.
If you’re interested in supporting our Kids Got Talent competition you can do so here. For more information on sponsorship opportunities for our annual gala reach out to our Senior Coordinator, Sarah Singla, at smarsh@improvingyouthjustice.org.