The National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP) is proud to announce that Dr. BJ Paige has been named the 2025 Youth Workforce Professional of the Year. Paige, a nationally recognized Workforce Development Motivational Speaker and founder of The Paige Group, will be honored at the 26th Annual NAWDP Youth Symposium in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Dr. Paige is widely known for his dedication to empowering postsecondary youth and the professionals who support them. With expertise as a Motivational Influencer, Master Workshop Facilitator, Author, and Career Coach, he has earned national recognition for his efforts to serve at-risk and underserved young people.
Based in the Washington, DC Metropolitan area, Dr. Paige’s contributions have been recognized with numerous awards, including the Inaugural Social Justice Trailblazer Award from the Washington Commanders and G-Unity Foundation, the DMV 48 Men of Power Award, and the Greater Washington Community Foundation Emerging Leadership Award. His leadership and service have also been acknowledged through honors such as Top Forty Under 40, the Maryland General Assembly Official Citation for Community Commitment, and Citizen of the Year from Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.
“The Youth Workforce Professional of the Year award honors an individual whose passion and commitment have opened new doors for youth,” said Melissa Robbins, NAWDP Chief Executive Officer. “We are proud to recognize Dr. Paige for his dedication and innovative work. His leadership has helped countless young people explore meaningful career pathways and thrive in their communities.”
Beyond his professional accolades, Dr. Paige continues to make an impact through mentorship programs with high school students in some of the most underserved communities in Washington, DC. His story—one that resonates with the lived experiences of many youth—fuels his ongoing commitment to mentorship, career exploration, and community transformation.
“This is such an honor,” said Dr. Paige. “NAWDP is more than just an organization—it’s a community of good people working to build brighter futures for the next generation. I’m blessed to receive this award and excited to continue collaborating with others who share this mission.”
