Meet the 2024 Gerber Baby, Arizona's Akil "Sonny" McLeod: 'It's an Honor'

Akil "Sonny" McLeod, who recently celebrated his first birthday, loves reading and playing with toy cars

This year's Gerber baby has officially been revealed!

On Tuesday, June 25, the family brand announced the winner of their 14th annual Photo Search, introducing the world to Arizona's Akil "Sonny" McLeod.

In an adorable photo, Sonny can be seen wearing a yellow-and-white striped onesie, smiling as he poses upright near a squishy My 1st ABC book. According to Gerber, Sonny just celebrated his first birthday and lives at home in Arizona with his parents Dominque and Akil McLeod Sr., as well as his big sister Sage.

"Every day it's an honor to watch Sonny conquer so many tiny achievements, from giggles to trying new foods, to standing up and everything in between," his parents say in a statement. "He's a light in our lives and brings joy to everyone around him."

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"We couldn't have asked for a better way to celebrate his first birthday than to be chosen as the 2024 Gerber Baby. We look forward to all the adventures in the year ahead collaborating with Gerber to share his sweet smile with families across the country."

For the first time ever this year, parents of previous Gerber Babies — including the parents of 2023 Gerber Baby Maddie — were on the selection panel, alongside Gerber employees. Each person added their own unique perspective as they helped select the 2024 Gerber Baby.

"After 14 incredible years of Photo Search, this year we are grateful our former Gerber Baby families could join us in selecting Sonny as our 2024 Gerber Baby," Chandra Kumar, President of Nestlé Nutrition said. "Sonny immediately captured our hearts with his joyful smile and his heartwarming demonstration of what it means to grow with love."

As this year’s Photo Search winner, Sonny will serve as the 2024 Gerber Baby and will be featured on Gerber’s social media channels and marketing campaigns throughout the year.

Additionally, Sonny and her family were awarded a $25,000 cash prize, free Gerber products for up to one year and a new wardrobe provided by Gerber Childrenswear. Throughout the year, the family will also enjoy surprise perks from Gerber partners.

Gerber is also matching Sonny's cash prize with a donation to support March of Dimes' maternal and infant health programs.

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