As the 2017 Milton Youth Award nominees begin to arrive with their families & supporters, I can feel the joy & excitement in the room. Proud parents, siblings, friends, and other esteemed guests are invited to join the Milton Youth Advisory Committee members in celebrating the achievements of the incredible nominees in this year’s awards. The room begins to fill as more guests arrive, including Mayor Krantz, Local / Regional Councillor Colin Best, and MYAC’s keynote speaker Hanshi Scott Hogarth; an 11-time world martial arts champion, who brought messages of hope, optimism, and encouragement. Co-chair, Daniel Jolic provides the music while the MYAC team, along with town staff & adult committee members greet guests and offer food & refreshments.
This is the third year that I have had the privilege of being involved with these awards as the Town Councillor who sits on the committee, and from the beginning of the process to the end, I always find my myself inspired; not only by our amazing young nominees and their stories, but by our MYAC committee members as well. While each of the awards has only one recipient, each nominee is truly inspiring. Every youth award nominee in the past has been deserving of recognition, and this year’s awards were no different.
Sidra Bokhari took home the Environmental Award for her commitment to green initiatives, which includes quarterbacking a 1500 student community clean-up day for her school. Bilal Ahmed received the Unity in Diversity Award for his work in promoting cultural awareness, diversity, and togetherness in Milton through his extensive volunteer work. The new Spirit of Sport award was given to Roxanne Duke for her tireless efforts in promoting good sportsmanship & school spirit, as well as her impressive contributions to the sporting community. Shiuli Khanna was honoured with the Painting a Path Award for her contributions to the art community, promoting inclusion & diversity in her work, leading to national recognition for her talents. Madison Cherwoniak received the prestigious Community Leadership award for her shining example of passion & optimism, endlessly volunteering to raise funds for important causes & helping us all to learn a very important lesson: everyone matters.
Jackie Clark, this year’s adult recipient, went home with the Champion for Youth Award as her children looked on from the crowd. She received this award for her work in promoting a healthy & active lifestyle with the first youth CrossFit facility in North America, FirePower Kids. Since its opening, she has worked determinedly to support, mentor, and encourage local youth to lead happier & healthier lives through youth-focused fitness programs.
The annual Youth Awards are presented by MYAC to recognize & celebrate our greatest young leaders & youth champions. It is by far my favourite event, and truly an honour to be involved year after year. The MYAC committee meets throughout the school year, discussing local issues & offering advice to council. To learn more & join in, visit the MYAC page at milton.ca and join us for next year’s awards!
