2020 Student Excellence Awards

​Elementary Students 
​
​​​Drew Bonney
Centennial Public School
Grade 8

Drew achieves high academic grades, participates in a plethora of extracurricular activities, and is one of the kindest and most supportive students within the school. He is constantly the first to take initiative and offer to help staff and students. Drew is an excellent student and leader within the school and the greater Georgetown community.
 

---

Maggie Irvine
Ethel Gardiner Public School
Grade 8

Maggie is kind, respectful and humble. She was elected by her peers to represent them as Student Parliament Prime Minister. She started the Jug of Hope campaign to collect pop tabs so the aluminum can be used to make wheelchairs for kids in the community. Maggie is a well-rounded young lady who leads by example and quietly demonstrates to others that they should get involved, take risks and enrich their school experience.

---

Esther Mathew
George Kennedy Public School
Grade 5

Esther is a natural leader who inspires confidence in others. She is a keen and curious student who is actively engaged in her learning and is also a skilled athlete. She is involved in WE Club, Learning Buddies, Cross-Country, Lunch Monitoring, Intramurals and the Radio Club. Esther models positive behaviour and is quick to help her peers and adults in the building.

---

Claire Smith
Glen Williams Public School
Grade 5

Claire is a role model who demonstrates care and compassion. She is a leader in Flights Crew, Green Team, special lunches and Kinderguardian and is an enthusiastic participant in cross country, volleyball, track and field and choir. Claire has garnered the respect and admiration of her peers and teachers for her innate desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

---

Ewan Haasbroek
Harrison Public School
Grade 5

Ewan consistently demonstrates strong leadership skills and is supportive, kind and always ready and willing to help out younger students and make them laugh. Actively involved in extracurriculars, Ewan demonstrates fair play, sportsmanship, and positive encouragement toward others. He is always happy, upbeat and has helped to foster a successful, positive school community​ at Harrison.

---

Lauren Perry
Joseph Gibbons Public School
Grade 5

Lauren is a quiet, caring and determined leader at Joseph Gibbons. Lauren ensures her work is completed to the best of her ability and is involved in the arts, athletics, and leadership opportunities throughout the school. She always has a smile on her face, goes out of her way to spread kindness, and creates an inclusive world around her. 

---

Sophie MacKay
Limehouse Public School
Grade 5

Sophie is a respectful, kind, inquisitive, engaging and quiet leader. She demonstrates a positive attitude and helpful nature as she diligently strives to create a better school community. She is genuine and honest and emulates empathy. Sophie is actively involved in school activities including milk helpers, announcement team, Grow-It-Green-Team, cross country, choir, soccer, Kindergarten Helpers and volleyball. 

---

Hadley Stowe
McKenzie-Smith Bennett Public School
Grade 8

Hadley is deeply respected and beloved by her peers. She strives for excellence, thinks outside the box, listens attentively and is a collaborative problem solver. She is polite, personable, kind, caring and helpful. Not only is her achievement in all academic areas outstanding, she also finds time to be involved in Student Leaders and Badminton at the school. 

---

Chloe Cambouris
Park Public School
Grade 5

Chloe has been a leader at the school since JK. Each year she challenges herself to be better. Chloe is helpful, supportive, encouraging, resourceful, kind and empathetic. She is a team player, actively involved in all types of activities including athletics, arts, games and yoga. 

---

Katelyn Ruch
Pineview Public School
Grade 5

Katelyn is actively involved as a WE Ambassador, and participant in the cross country team, choir, volleyball and Green Panther. She demonstrates high academic achievement and is always looking for opportunities to go above and beyond and help others. Katelyn is an excellent friend and classmate to her peers. 

---

Alannah McIntyre
Robert Little Public School
Grade 5

Alannah is kind, supportive, helpful and a hard worker. She is self-motivated, continuously asking for opportunities and feedback to improve. She is a leader in her classes and the Athletic Council. It’s Alannah’s nature to help younger students and those who need some extra help finding friends on the playground. 

---

Cody Torraville
Silver Creek Public School
Grade 8

Cody is a conscientious student who strives to do his best both academically and when undertaking athletic pursuits. He demonstrates a positive attitude and conducts himself with integrity. Cody’s unfailing kindness, empathy and strong work ethic make him a natural leader. He is highly regarded by his peers and teachers because he treats others with respect and helps create an inclusive and welcoming school community.

---

Ian Cameron
Stewarttown Public School
Grade 8

Ian is a model citizen for his peers. He is kind, respectful, inclusive and supportive towards his peers, using his keen sense of humour to make connections and ensure his classmates feel a sense of belonging. Ian demonstrates his leadership skills both inside the classroom and in his role as Student Parliament Prime Minister and in numerous extracurricular activities.

---

​Secondary Students 
​
Briana Chen
Acton District High School
Grade 12

Briana is hard working, dedicated, reliable and always willing to help. She is kind, gracious and enthusiastic and demonstrates an exemplary work ethic. Briana achieves top marks in her academic program, promotes school spirit and remains highly committed to her involvement in school activities. Briana is an excellent student and well-rounded person who exemplifies a love of learning.

---

Jackson Macor
Georgetown District High School
Grade 12

Jackson is a model student. He demonstrates strength in academics and is a genuine citizen to the school. Jackson continuously goes above and beyond for his fellow students and teachers. He is a great leader and mentor, and is one of the hardest working students at GDHS.

​Elementary Students 
​
Mahiya Majeed
Abbey Lane Public School
Grade 8

Mahiya contributes greatly to the Abbey Lane learning community through her pursuit of excellence in academics, sports teams, office announcer, Kindie helper, WE Schools, Open Arms, Eco Club, Culture Club, School Band, assembly MC, office helper among others. She is someone who consistently conducts herself as a role-model to younger students and her peers recognize her as someone they can trust and someone who shows kindness, caring and compassion to everyone.

---

Nicole Boose
Brookdale Public School
Grade 8

Nicole exemplifies a number of qualities that make her a worthy Student Excellence recipient. She is active in all parts of school life. She is involved outside of school with softball, umpiring, horse riding and competitive skiing. She sets and maintains very high standards in academic and student leadership and is respected by her teachers and peers.

---

Gemma Bassett
Captain R. Wilson Public School
Grade 8

Gemma demonstrates excellence in all aspects of school life. As a member of the Leadership Council, Gemma demonstrates her school spirit and leadership skills and goes out of her way to help those around her. She participates in the school’s Helping Stars club which is a community outreach committee, she co-leads the school’s Junior French club, is a member of the school’s Concert band, soccer team and also assists the volleyball and basketball coaches and teams.

---

Junaiya Bunn
E.J. James Public School
Grade 8

Junaiya is an outstanding individual academically, a leader in the school and an excellent role model. She shares her passion for learning, and school involvement, with younger students. As a student leader, Junaiya is not only reliable, but proactive in bringing her peers together to get jobs done. Through her passion for leadership, she has demonstrated her ability to collaborate with her peers to build inclusiveness in the E. J. James PS community.

---

Spruha Khadilkar
Eastview Public School
Grade 8

Spruha is a kind, hardworking, and excellent student. She is self-motivated and continually looks for ways to go above and beyond in her work. She is that student who can be trusted to help with any task and puts her best effort in everything she tackles. Perhaps one of the highest compliments that can be paid to Spruha is that she does the right thing when no one is watching - she is genuine.

---

Kirsten Liu
Emily Carr Public School
Grade 8

Kirsten is highly involved in extracurriculars within the school. She is diligent, hard-working, all her academic work meets an extremely high standard of excellence. Kirsten is a wonderful role model for our younger students and she is compassionate, humble and kind. 

---

Neve Anderson
Falgarwood Public School
Grade 8

Neve is a natural leader who is patient and kind, and well respected by her peers. Neve puts forth a determined effort in all endeavours including her academic and extracurricular activities. Neve is an influential member of Falgarwood’s Me to We Club, Eco Club, Student Voice and is our Student Senate Representative. In these leadership roles, Neve consistently fosters a positive community within the school as she goes out of her way to make others feel welcome and safe.

---

Claire Jung
Forest Trail Public School
Grade 8

Claire has exemplified excellence in academics, leadership, music and athletics throughout her time at Forest Trail. As our Student Senate Representative, Student Parliament Co-Prime Minister and member of our Me to We Club, she shows an impressive commitment to our school and the community at large. Claire embraces and excels in our school music and art programs, and math contests; she demonstrates excellent sportsmanship in athletics and kindness and respect for others in all that she does.

---

Robyn Wong
Gladys Speers Public School
Grade 6

Robyn is a self-directed learner who leads others by example. She demonstrates excellent learning skills and contributes to the school through her tremendous involvement in extracurriculars, most notably the school’s Eco-Speer-it Team.

---

Jessica Richardson
Heritage Glen Public School
Grade 8

Jessica is a model student citizen who demonstrates positive leadership in the school community through her participation in cross country, track and field, math contests, breakfast club, and soccer. Jessica demonstrates quiet confidence which is respected among her peers and teachers. She continues to submit academic work that is of the utmost quality and continues to strive for excellence.

---

Emily Chen
James W. Hill Public School
Grade 8

Emily is an enthusiastic learner who enjoys challenges, works diligently and is always determined to do her best. She is respectful towards others and is a born leader as demonstrated by her role as JWH’s Eco Minister. She is a well-rounded student who demonstrates excellence in all that she does without seeking recognition.

---

Kabir Bedi
Joshua Creek Public School
Grade 8

Kabir has consistently achieved excellence in academics, athletics and music. He is a Lead Housemate, was instrumental in starting student parliament this year and also became Joshua Creek’s Student Senator. He is engaged and polite while maintaining healthy and positive relationships with peers and staff.

---

Adam Feltmate
Maple Grove Public School
Grade 8

Adam is a very kind student. He is involved in many extracurricular events at school and demonstrates tremendous leadership abilities. He is extremely helpful and will often look for ways that he can assist students and staff throughout his school day. Adam participates in intramurals and leads by example. Adam is dedicated to his academic success and regularly looks for innovative ways to extend his learning.

---

Roland Kaluzny
Montclair Public School
Grade 8

Roland is a considerate and kind student who leads by example. Roland sets high academic standards for himself and puts forth his best effort with tasks and especially perseveres through challenging ones. Roland participates in a variety of extra curriculars such as Concert Band, Rock Band and Student Parliament. His empathy, dedication and positive attitude truly embody Excellence. Roland is well regarded by students and staff.

---

Hannah Baung
Munn's Public School
Grade 8

Hannah is an enthusiastic student who not only excels in her academic pursuits but also demonstrates a heartfelt dedication to serving the school community. As a respected leader in both Jazz and Concert Bands she mentors peers by sharing her musical expertise and as a member of the Social Justice Club she cultivates an environment of equity and inclusion. Hannah consistently strives for excellence in her studies and shares her genuine passion for learning.

---

Heather Brown
New Central Public School
Grade 6

Heather is a compassionate and thoughtful student whose honesty, integrity, and kindness towards others makes her a trusted and powerful leader within the school. Heather is dedicated to all her endeavours, both academic and extra-curricular. She is always eager to help and support school initiatives, and as a result, Heather is held in high regard by peers and staff. Heather is actively involved in a variety of extracurricular activities, and through her respectful involvement and leadership, she is a true role model for her peers.

---

Mariia Tepliakova
Oakwood Public School
Grade 5

Mariia maintains an exemplary academic level and is a consistent source of thoughtful and insightful input. She gives up her own time to help other students with their work to ensure they are feeling successful. She keeps an open mind when working with others, maintains a positive outlook and treats all peers and adults with respect. Mariia leads by example with her calm and quiet demeanor and is a positive role model for everyone.

---

Thomas Zhao
Oodenawi Public School
Grade 8

Thomas goes above and beyond and he consistently puts forth his best effort in all subject areas, resulting in achievement well above grade level expectations. Thomas has shown excellent leadership through his involvement in Me to We, Concert and Jazz Band, Vex EDR, Cross Country, Terry Fox Committee, and GSA. Thomas is always willing to assist his peers when they are experiencing difficulties. His sense of good citizenship is demonstrated daily, through interactions with classmates and teachers, as well as his kindness and patience shown towards his Grade 3 reading buddies.

---

Anissa Sanatgar
Palermo Public School
Grade 8

Anissa exemplifies personal initiative, dedication and a will to succeed. She is a leader, an artist, an athlete, a humanitarian and a role model for her peers and fellow students at Palermo PS. She is an active member of many extracurricular activities such as in the arts (Photoclub, Band) and sports (Cross Country, Soccer, Palermo Pacer) and participated in Canadian Legion Literary Remembrance Day contest and Debate Club and she is a vital part of the We Are Palermo group. Anissa’s genuine love of learning allowed her to earn top marks while completing the French Immersion Program at Palermo PS.

---

Jack Guillemette
Pilgrim Wood Public School
Grade 8

Throughout this time at Pilgrim Wood Jack has displayed high levels of leadership throughout the school, student parliament, Oak club, concert band and athletics. Jack has an extremely positive attitude and has the ability to foster the same within his peer group. Jack has taken on many projects to better his school community, neighbourhood and the greater world including a student initiative focused on bringing sanitation solutions to third world countries. Jack also played a major leadership role in Pilgrim Wood’s ECO- conference where the goal was to connect the community and inspire others to live sustainably. Jack has been a model student and a role model for his classmates, teachers and community.

---

Kuba Klis
Pine Grove Public School
Grade 8

Kuba’s infectious smile, enthusiastic attitude, and genuine caring and inclusive nature positively influences the school climate every day. Kuba is a respectful, self-motivated and self-directed learner who always puts forth his best effort. Even when faced with challenges, he perseveres with dedication and unwavering positivity. As a member of the GSA and Instrumental Band, and as a Pizza Day volunteer, he shows commitment and leadership outside of the classroom as well.

---

Saleena Qureshi
Post's Corners Public School
Grade 8

Saleena is kind, empathetic and has a great attitude towards learning and growing. She is active in the school community, often dedicating her breaks to participating in school clubs, intramurals, teams, concert band. She is a reliable library helper, office helper, morning announcement maker and as being a member of the Community Committee and Spirit Committee. Saleena is a student who will push herself to exceed expectations. She holds herself to a high standard, and does this with a smile. She is a strong student academically, who sets high goals for herself, she is an excellent writer and artist and a natural leader. She is well-liked and respected by her peers. Saleena is a valuable member of Post’s Corners and the decision to nominate her was both quick and unanimous.

---

Makenzie Nelson
River Oaks Public School
Grade 8

Makenzie strives for excellence in everything she does; academically she is constantly setting personal goals to challenge herself further, her learning skills are exceptional, showing definitively every quality an upstanding young woman should possess and she is a fantastic teammate, invariably supporting and guiding her peers. She is a strong role-model for whom others emulate because she consistently demonstrates tenacity, compassion and a positive attitude, all the while encouraging and mentoring our younger student athletes.

---

Kathryn Finch
Sheridan Public School
Grade 5

Kathryn is a student who has fully embraced the additional leadership opportunities available in her final year at Sheridan. She is a friendly and caring student leader who delivers pizza and milk, reads morning announcements, and helps staff members in the library and office during nutrition breaks. She cares deeply about the environment and was eager to participate in the Grade 5 climate strike on September 27and attend the Eco-League Youth Forum as a school rep. Kathryn is also a talented athlete who sets personal goals and celebrates the successes of her teammates. Kathryn is a member of school choir, had a role in two holiday musicals and is a voracious reader. She is a wonderful example of the qualities we encourage students to develop throughout their time at Sheridan Public School.

---

Vivaan Chhabra
Sunningdale Public School
Grade 8

Vivaan has demonstrated outstanding leadership in many aspects of school life. He is a kind, well respected, caring and empathetic individual who goes above and beyond to support his peers and make our school a better place for everyone. Congratulations Vivaan!

---

Aya Alhasany
W.H. Morden Public School
Grade 8

Aya is a model student who demonstrates excellence in academics, social-emotional well-being, and positive outlook. She is highly involved in extracurricular activities in the school and her community. She is well-liked and respected by her peers as well as adults.

---

Ian Dittrich
West Oak Public School
Grade 8

Ian is an outstanding student, a creative thinker, and always pushing himself to go over and above on assignments. He has participated in the Caribou Math contest and readily accepts feedback to improve his work. Ian is able to work with all students as he is kind, helpful and positive; he is a role model for all his peers. Ian is a willing participant in many West Oak initiatives: Announcement Team, Student Advisory Council, the school musical, The Wizard of Oz. Ian is not afraid to be genuine and true to himself, he has performed for his class with his guitar, and sang a solo at the intermediate dance. Ian is also a trusted babysitter who watches children for families who are attending evening events at West Oak.

---

​Secondary​ Students 
​
Andrei Adam
Abbey Park High School
Grade 12

Andrei is an outstanding student. He has been an honour roll recipient in national and international math competitions, is co-President of the Model United Nations (MUN) team and won five ”Best Delegate” awards at MUN competitions. Andrei is captain of the Basketball and Volleyball teams and has received numerous athletic awards. Andrei has shown leadership by assuming the role of Regional Director for the HDSB’s Student Senate and representing the school on numerous political youth councils. Additionally, he has taken action on the climate crisis by publishing articles in local and national newspapers and successfully advocating for Oakville to declare a climate change emergency. Andrei led the organization of Halton’s only TEDx conference for youth, providing a platform for students to share their ideas with the local and global community. Finally, Andrei is the founder of a tutoring company, which provides meaningful employment to student-tutors and supports the learning needs of children of all ages.​

---

Kavya Sony
Garth Webb Secondary School
Grade 12

Kavya is a truly unique and bright student who shows mastery in all subject areas of study. Kavya demonstrates proficiency in both her academic studies, and pursuit of her passion for Robotics. As team Captain of the Garth Webb Robotics team Kavya solidifies the trifecta of competencies as our adept and ever capable leader. She has ensured the success of our program and the empowerment of every team member.

---

Lauren Fong
Iroquois Ridge High School
Grade 12

Lauren is an outstanding student who has excellent academic grades and is involved in the school and her community. In school, she created a website for her peers to use as a resource to assist them in their studies. She is president of Model U.N., involved in Student Vote, Junior Achievement, and French club. Lauren's community involvement is varied and she has spent hours volunteering at the local hospital. Her co-op employer summed up her experience with the following comment, “Lauren has gone above and beyond our expectations.” Lauren has always exhibited dedication and commitment in all aspects of her life.

---

Urmi Sheth
Oakville Trafalgar High School
Grade 12

Urmi exemplifies all the qualities of an exceptionally remarkable student. She continually achieves high academic standing by showing innovation, initiative, creativity and a genuine love of learning. As president of HOSA, debate, and Model UN, as well as a Relay for Life Committee Chair, she leads by example and is a strong role model for her peers. Acting as a mentor, she goes out of her way to make OTHS an enriching, engaging place for everyone. Urmi is a strong advocate in the Oakville community where she volunteers at Trillium Health Partners, the YMCA, and at Relay for Life events. Despite all of her achievements and successes, Urmi remains incredibly humble, focused, and determined to contribute to the world around her.

---

Dorian Knight
T.A. Blakelock High School
Grade 12

An outstanding leader! Dorian contributes to all aspects of life at T.A. Blakelock and is an amazing ambassador in and out of the school. He is recognized by staff, students and the community for his academic excellence, commitment to the music program and student leadership in the building, having been involved in student government during his entire high school experience.

---

Abduljawad Kourabi
White Oaks Secondary School
Grade 12

A.J. (Abduljawad) Kourabi came to WOSS in Grade 10 as a newcomer to Canada. Academically he has excelled in all his courses. As President of the Model U.N. he won best delegate in southern Ontario and he placed first in the Muslim Inter-Scholastic National Science Fair Competition. He has participated in the WOSS Law & Mock Trial championship and on the WOSS Soccer team. He volunteers at the Oakville Soccer Club, Oakville Public Library, Halton Police Dept, Canadian Cancer Society and coaches soccer. He is a leader in class and helps other students who is forthright, humble, 
mature and genuine. 

​ ​Elementary Students 
​
​​​ Afraa Khan
Anne J. MacArthur Public School
Grade 8

Afraa is an active member of the school community, having been one of the school's Prime Ministers of the Student Parliament Committee, a member of the Me to We Club. Afraa participates in a variety of clubs and teams and is a strong academic student.

---

Syed Ayaan Asim
Boyne Public School
Grade 8

Ayaan is an unassuming, kind, considerate student who lives the school’s mantra of Work Hard, Be Nice and Make a Difference. He is a Boyne Ambassador, always going above and beyond in classes and around the school. Ayaan includes everyone. He is a model student and is kind to all students and staff.

---

Melina Pulcini
Brookville Public School
Grade 8

Melina is a kind, friendly and thoughtful student who demonstrates effective decision making in her academics and personal relationships. She models kindness and her leadership is evident through her involvement in clubs and sporting teams. Melina has demonstrated a strong sense of commitment and responsibility to her academics and leadership endeavours.

---

Shaan Mangat
Bruce Trail Public School
Grade 8

Shaan is an exemplary student who maintains a high academic average while balancing extracurriculars such as yearbook committee, Red Maple, student ambassadors, all while excelling on a multitude of school teams and looking for additional opportunities to give back like tutoring younger students. He has a deep understanding of what he wants in life and his work ethic mirrors that.

---

Sanawar Javaid
Chris Hadfield Public School
Grade 8

Sanawar demonstrates a high level of achievement, consistently achieving an academic honours standing. Sanawar is a key player on the volleyball and basketball teams, has made a difference as a member of the school’s Athletic Council and was a major contributor to his team’s efforts during Vex Robotics competitions. In his quiet and unassuming way, Sanawar has shown excellent leadership skills.

---

Nahla Toorawa
E.W. Foster Public School
Grade 5

Nahla demonstrates excellence in academics, student leadership, school involvement and initiative. She is kind, caring and helpful and always shows empathy towards her teachers and peers. She is a quiet leader who leads by example and is a positive role model for her classmates.

---

Madeline Chapman
Escarpment View Public School
Grade 8

Madeline is a dedicated student with outstanding learning skills. She is exceedingly kind, thoughtful, inclusive and welcoming. She pushes herself to succeed and is humble about her successes. Madeline participates in intramurals, was on the volleyball team and dances competitively outside of school. 

---

Yasmin Abu-Narr
Hawthorne Village Public School
Grade 8

Yasmin is a positive, kind and altruistic student with strong leadership skills. Yasmin enthusiastically participates in extracurricular activities such as Student Parliament, OELC planning committee, Concert Band, volleyball and Library Helpers. Yasmin’s ability to establish positive relationships with her peers and be a role model for younger students is an asset to the school community.

---

Pranay Chopra
Irma Coulson Public School
Grade 8

Pranay is an excellent student who exudes emotional intelligence and kindness to each and everyone he meets. He is an excellent student who works hard academically. Pranay consistently demonstrates kindness and respect towards others, integrity and a positive outlook on life. 

---

Sienna Forsyth
J.M. Denyes Public School
Grade 5

Sienna has been highly successful academically and is a positive presence within the school. She is an active member of the school community, helping with morning announcements, the holiday concert and is a part of the school’s leadership program. In the classroom, Sienna is always willing to help students and she incorporates the “Tribes” agreements of mutual respect, appreciation and attentive listening each day.

---

Farwah Rasheed
Martin Street Public School
Grade 8

Farwah excels in all aspects of Martin Street school life. She is kind, caring and an excellent role model for students of all ages. Farwah participates in many school activities such as Sewing Club, Grad Committee, Diversity Team, Me to We Club, basketball and volunteers in the primary classes. Farwah is a collaborative member of her classroom, known to take initiative and work well with each of her peers.

---

Samuel Escano
P.L. Robertson Public School
Grade 8

Samuel excels academically, as a leader in the school and is valued by his peers and teachers. He demonstrates dedication, initiative and a genuine love for learning and is an advocate for creating a positive school environment through his participation in the Athletic Council and Assembly Crew. Samuel remains incredibly humble, focused and determined to contribute to the world around him.

---

Claire Werbin
Robert Baldwin Public School
Grade 5

Clarie is kind-hearted, dependable, admired by her peers and demonstrates excellence in academics, athletics and leadership. As part of her various extracurriculars, Claire choreographs Dance Club routines and is a crucial member of the leadership club. She works hard and always looks for ways to improve and consistently makes an effort to be inclusive both in and outside the classroom.

---

Addison Gutcher
Sam Sherratt Public School
Grade 8

Addison is a highly motivated student who relentlessly pursues excellence in all of her academic subjects. She makes significant contributions to Sam Sherratt Public School as a leader and student athlete. Addison's work ethic and determination make her successful in all of her endeavours. 

---

Anokye Boateng
Tiger Jeet Singh Public School
Grade 8

Anokye demonstrates maturity beyond his years. He is kind and respectful towards others, he takes the time to mentor younger students while being a role model to his peers and volunteers where he sees a need. He makes everyone feel welcome and is so genuine. All of us learn from watching his attitude and demeanor. Anokye is gifted at recognizing human nature.

---

Trisha Purandare
Viola Desmond Public School
Grade 8

Trisha embodies the school’s guiding principles of fostering caring relationships and contributing to a sense of community. Her involvement within the school community and her commitment to thinking globally highlights her passions and strengths. Her leadership style has grown and developed into the caring young adult Trisha is today. 

---

Vaishnavie Dhingra
W.I. Dick Middle School
Grade 8

Vaishnavie is an incredibly respectful, dedicated and helpful student. She is outstanding academically but really shines through her actions. She is a leader in the classroom and demonstrates genuine empathy and kindness towards all of her peers. She is level headed and demonstrates an ability to handle situations with confidence and maturity. 

---

​Secondary Students 
​
​Lana Abu Narr
Craig Kielburger Secondary School
Grade 12

Lana has consistently excelled academically throughout her high school years. She is a member of the school’s Youth in Action group which leads a "We Walk for Water" event that raised $10,000 dollars to help bring water to a village in Tanzania. Having completed more than 140 hours of community service so far, Lana makes it a priority to give back to her local and global communities.

---

Matthew Cleland
Gary Allan High School - Milton
Grade 12

Matthew has overcome serious medical issues that interrupted his regular high school studies when he was in Grade 9 and 10. There were many times that his studies were put on hold as he dealt with the physical challenges that took priority and therefore, now as an adult, Matthew has been able to concentrate on his studies through the HDSB Adult Learning classes to achieve his final credits in Functions and Calculus with a goal to study Biochemistry at university.

---

Andrew Sabino
Milton District High School
Grade 12

Andrew, known as the “Voice of MD”, is an active member of the Student Athletic Association, Equity and Wellness Club and volunteers his time with the school’s hockey team, the Milton Minor Hockey Association and his elementary school library. Andrew is a dedicated honours student who is kind, caring and always goes out of his way to help others and make them feel comfortable. Andrew takes pride in his work within the school and Milton community, accumulating more than 225 volunteer hours.​