Two Metro YMCA Leaders Honored with ‘30 Under 30’ Awards
From left, Rick Gorab, President and CEO, Metro YMCA of the Oranges; Maya Gujral, 30 Under 30 Award Winner; Marc Koch, District Executive Director at Fairview Lake YMCA Camps; Mila Momphotes, 30 Under 30 Award Winner; Ed Philipp, Sr. VP/COO of Metro YMCA
LIVINGSTON, NJ - The Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges is excited to announce that two staff members were recently named by the YMCA of the USA’s National Emerging Leaders Resource Network as “30 Under 30” award winners for 2024. The honorees include Maya Gujral, Program Manager and Assistant Summer Camp Director at Fairview Lake YMCA Camps, and Mila Momphotes, Business Development Coordinator for the Metro YMCAs.
This prestigious award is provided to a select group of Y professionals who have shown exemplary work and contributions to their Y and community. Gurjal and Momphotes were selected from nearly 100 nominations representing dozens of Y associations across the U.S.
“The Metro YMCA is deeply honored and proud to have two talented individuals representing our Association in this year's ‘30 Under 30’ class. This recognition is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment to fostering youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility in our communities,” said Richard K. Gorab, President and CEO of the Metro YMCA of the Oranges.
Gujral’s Journey and Impact
From participating in Y family programs at age 4 to her current role at Fairview Lake, Gujral has shown inspiring leadership and fostered a culture of accountability and inclusivity. In 2022, Gurjal became a full-time employee, adeptly handling staffing challenges and maintaining program quality. Her proactive approach and innovative problem-solving highlight her empowering leadership.
She emphasizes safety and inclusion, implementing new procedures for water activities and training over 50 lifeguards to ensure all campers can participate. She addresses inequities and champions accessibility in camping, also raising funds to eliminate socio-economic barriers. Gurjal, a Newton resident, was named Staff Member of the Year for the Metro YMCA for 2023 for her work at the Y.
"I am deeply honored to be named one of Y-USA's 30 Under 30. This recognition is a reflection of the incredible mentors, colleagues, and communities that have supported and inspired me along the way. I’m grateful for the opportunity to grow, lead, and make an impact alongside so many passionate changemakers,” said Gujral.
Momphotes’ Journey and Impact
Momphotes, of Clifton, has shown exceptional leadership, driving growth and expanding the Y’s community impact through strategic partnerships. She has exceeded strategic goals by expanding partnerships with local businesses, securing resources for youth programs, and driving membership growth. Her work has increased local engagement and positively impacted hundreds through initiatives like health fairs and youth workshops.
As a Latina, Momphotes values representation and inclusivity, advocating for a welcoming space for all. She has helped establish bilingual resources, broadening the Y’s reach to the Hispanic community and other underrepresented communities.
"I'm grateful to be recognized for this award. It is a reminder that my work is acknowledged and appreciated. This award inspires me to strive even harder as I continue to advance in my professional career,” said Momphotes.
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ABOUT THE Y
Established in 1885, the Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges invests in its diverse communities to promote wellness, safety and quality of life for children, adults and seniors. Its six branches in East Orange, Livingston, Maplewood, New Milford, Hardyston and Stillwater are committed to nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy living and fostering a sense of social responsibility through an array of programs. Some 35,000 people belong to the Metro Y, which awards more than $2 million annually in direct and indirect financial assistance.
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