PHOENIX (AZFamily) — Gerber announced the winner of its 14th annual photo search on Tuesday and Akil McLeod, known as Sonny, of Arizona is the 2024 Gerber Baby.

Sonny recently celebrated his first birthday and won the hearts of the photo search committee. He lives in Arizona with his parents Dominque and Akil McLeod Sr. and his big sister Sage.

Sonny's family said his cheerful personality made them feel complete and that his sunny disposition brought light to his parents even on the cloudiest days.

“It is an honor every day to watch Sonny achieve so many little successes, from giggling to trying new foods to standing up and everything in between. He is a light in our lives and brings joy to everyone around him,” Sonny's mother said in a statement. “We couldn't have asked for a better way to celebrate his first birthday than being chosen as the Gerber Baby of 2024. We look forward to all the adventures in the coming year as we work with Gerber to share his sweet smile with families across the country.”

During his tenure as Gerber Baby 2024, Sonny will work with Gerber to “support the mission of helping babies everywhere continue to grow up with love,” a press release said.

Gerber said tens of thousands of babies are entered into the contest each year. This year, for the first time, parents of previous Gerber babies were part of the selection committee, in addition to Gerber employees.

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

In addition, Sonny's family received $25,000 in prize money, a year of free Gerber products, and other merchandise from other children's and family-focused businesses.

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