Kelian Almanzar de Jesus

Congratulations to Kelian Almanzar de Jesus, age 17, a longtime PAL Youth Safe Haven member, PAL Gate City Thunder basketball player, and Junior Staff member, on being named Nashua PAL’s 2026 Jr. PAL of the Year!

Kelian first walked through PAL’s doors in 2019 as a 10-year-old navigating enormous changes. He had recently moved from the Dominican Republic to Nashua and was adjusting to a new country, a new culture, and living with his mom after spending several years apart while she worked to build a better future for their family. Seven years later, Kelian’s growth is exactly why he was chosen as Jr. PAL of the Year.

PAL’s Downtown Director and mentor Jaela Solis remembers the “little kid riding his bike around the neighborhood” and now sees “a young man who truly wants the best for his family and his community.” Over the years, Kelian has opened up, built relationships, and learned that he doesn’t have to face challenges alone. “He wants to be someone people respect, and he’s learned that respect is earned through your actions and by giving that same respect to others,” Jaela said. “He knows things aren’t just handed to him, and he’s willing to work for it. That’s why I know he’s going to succeed.”

Basketball has also played an important role in that growth. PAL Gate City Thunder Head Coach Shawn Nieves said, “Kelian has grown into a real leader, both on and off the court. He helps new kids learn the ropes, and while he can be stern with them, he’s always straight up and wants them to do well.” Coach Shawn has watched Kelian work to handle his emotions, accept feedback, and become someone his peers look up to.

Kelian is also one of his peers’ biggest supporters. When friend and PAL teammate Francisco Rodriguez-Malecon was named PAL’s 2025 Basketball Player of the Year, Kelian helped him prepare for his big moment and proudly celebrated his success. As Kelian says, “When you show up for people and keep your word, they show up for you.”

When asked who believed in him when he needed it, Kelian gave a shoutout to his mom! As he’s grown older, he has come to understand the sacrifices she made for their family, and that shapes his own dreams: “My dream is to own a car dealership and succeed in life. To be able to see my siblings grow up. And to help my Momma out.”

And what does PAL mean to Kelian? “PAL means a lot to me. PAL has helped me be the person who I am today. I really appreciate Mrs. Jaela for always being there for me and showing me the right path.” His advice for younger PAL members? “Follow your dreams and don’t do anything bad out there in the streets.” Kelian’s journey is a powerful example of growth, perseverance, potential.

Congratulations, Kelian, on being named Nashua PAL’s 2026 Jr. PAL of the Year!