Student Recognition Awards 2022-2023

Haya A.

Frederick Banting Secondary Alternate Program

Haya A. has made a significant impact on the school community at Frederick Banting Secondary Alternate Program. As a student, Haya works incredibly hard, always persevering through challenges and showing enthusiasm towards her learning. However, it is her quiet leadership and interpersonal skills that truly set her apart. She embodies the idea of “create the community you want to live in”, always sharing her positive attitude no matter what is happening in her life. She gives of herself to others in a compassionate and tireless manner at school, at work, at home, and in the community, and yet always has the energy to be friendly with her peers and to offer help or congratulations to her classmates. She is quick to recognize others’ successes and their times of need, and has even become an unofficial mentor to new students. As one staff member once said, “Just talking to Haya brightens your day–she has no idea of her impact on others”. Haya will be so missed by the students and staff at Banting, but they know her future is bright and wish her all the best as she follows her passion for helping others by pursuing a career in practical nursing!

Naylah A.

John McCrae Secondary School

Naylah A. is a formidable force of positivity at John McCrae Secondary School. She has a warm smile and never hesitates to share a happy greeting with anyone she meets. Naylah has taken on many leadership roles at the school with enthusiasm, practicality, and warm assertiveness. When the Threadworks teacher advisor needed to be away for several months, Naylah stepped right into the role of leader, organizer, mentor, and teacher. She ran the Threadworks club of 30 students, keeping track of community service hours, ordering supplies, teaching new students how to knit and crochet, planning fundraisers, and managing the equipment. The group is very diverse, and Naylah welcomed everyone with maturity and empathy. Her generous spirit and kind nature have truly left an impact on the staff and students at John McCrae!

Pavleen C.

West Carleton Secondary School

Pavleen C. has worked very hard over the years to foster a Culture of Caring and Social Responsibility at West Carleton Secondary School. As co-president of Student Council, she works with student leaders, staff members, and administration to help create an inclusive and engaging school environment. She has used this position to voice suggestions and concerns on behalf of her fellow students, championing projects like the menstrual equity initiative, student mental health resources, and inclusivity at the school. She has also played a major role in leading school events to raise money for charities like food banks and the Ronald McDonald House. Pavleen is committed to her studies and is passionate about science and technology, and has plans to pursue post-secondary studies in a STEM-related field. Overall, Pavleen is an excellent role model to younger students due to her unselfish commitment, dedication, and leadership to the school community!

Taj D-M.

Glebe Collegiate Institute

Taj D-M. has taken great initiative to transform Glebe Collegiate Institute into a beautiful place where all students feel welcome and included, spending hundreds of hours on artistic projects that both beautify the school and help make sure the student population is represented well. On a mission to use his artistic talents to improve the school, Taj started by doing a walkthrough to make note of outdated spaces that did not reflect the current student population, and blank walls in hallways where student excellence could be showcased. Soon after, Taj was painting the stairwells with cheerful and inviting imagery, and working with a team to create a beautiful mural representing Black excellence in a large second floor hallway. He took the time to plan, research, and create incredible artwork that showcased many walks of life, ensuring his work accurately represented the students at Glebe. The bright mural has transformed the hallway into a dynamic space that students always stop to admire! Taj has truly left a lasting impact on the school walls of Glebe for years to come, where students will be able to see themselves represented each and every day.

Might G.

Sir Robert Borden High School

Might G. is both a formal and informal leader at Sir Robert Borden High School, demonstrating leadership both within the classroom and in extracurricular activities. He is a founding member and co-president of the school’s first Black Student Union, is a member of the competing mock trial team, and is a participant in the Black Youth Forum planning committee. Might also played a key role in initiating the Black Student Union this past year, always encouraging student participation in diversity initiatives, working to enhance student voice and belonging at the school, and contributing positively to his classes. Moreover, Might is an exemplary student and persevered through significant obstacles to achieve his academic goals. He advocates for other students, works to address issues he sees happening at school or in the community, and is always quick to jump into any situation in support of his peers. Might shows vision and patience with those around him, and has a gentle way of affecting change. He is looked up to by many of his classmates and has left a true legacy at Sir Robert Borden!

Naomi H.

Canterbury High School

In her time at Canterbury High School, Naomi H. has spearheaded several important initiatives while making room for everyone to learn and grow alongside her. She has proven herself to be an inclusive leader and committed collaborator in her many efforts to create a better society for her peers. A member since its inception, Naomi is the President of the school’s Let Start Change club, which has supported Minwaashin Lodge, provided leadership seminars in elementary schools, established Asian Heritage Month celebrations, and raised awareness of the challenges experienced by transgender youth. Two years ago, Naomi and others from Let’s Start Change also participated in the Ontario High School Ethics Bowl, winning first place. Since then they have represented Ontario at the national championships, with a first place and second place finish! Naomi has now helped to establish and coach a Junior Ethics Bowl team, and that is just one of the many ways she has made an impact at Canterbury.

Mahmoud H.

Longfields-Davidson Heights Secondary School

Mahmoud H. dynamic personality and strong leadership skills have truly uplifted the people around him at Longfields-Davidson Heights Secondary School. He has had an immensely positive impact on younger students, who look up to him, respect him, and consider him a role model. His care and respect for the school environment and community values have set a great example for all students! Mahmoud has also served as club president for the Muslim Students Association, where his numerous contributions have demonstrated integrity and a high level of dedication towards serving his peers and ensuring their needs are met. He has never hesitated to give up his personal time to ensure events and activities are properly organized, and to provide support and knowledge to anyone who needs it. This promising young leader has developed and strengthened his character through team work and significant responsibilities, and he has carried each one with a great deal of maturity. Mahmoud has been a wonderful asset to the school, and his presence will be greatly missed!

Stella K.

Richard Pfaff Alternate Program

Upon arrival at Richard Pfaff Alternate Program, Stella K. immediately identified several areas of need in the school community and has since worked incredibly hard to fill them. Stella always sees the bigger picture and is eager to participate in just about everything her school has to offer. In everything she does, she embodies a thoughtful and gracious attitude, always demonstrating hard work, dedication, and a wonderful sense of humour. Stella has been instrumental in starting various student initiatives, including the Equity and Diversity Club and the student Zine, and has created an outstandingly positive environment in her activities and classes. Stella is a true leader who sets an example by showing care, compassion, loyalty and support for the people around her!

Reem M.

Earl of March Secondary School

Reem M. is a terrifically kind, thoughtful, and caring leader who brings a high level of positive energy to the Earl of March Secondary School community. Reem has played a significant role in ensuring the school is inclusive and supportive, and has cultivated a deep sense of belonging within the student population. Through MEDLIFE, Reem helped to create shoeboxes filled with women’s self-care products for those in need, and through Animal Welfare, she has designed and sold stickers to raise funds for the Ottawa Humane Society. She has also acted as head of fundraising for Cancer Kids First, holding bake sales, raffles, and card-making for patients all to raise money for CHEO, and was head of fundraising for Relay for Life. As an active member of the Diversity Committee and Studco Wellness Committee, she contributes to cultural events and supports students having difficulty with anything related to their well-being. In addition, she was Co-Chapter Head of the Believe Leadership Course, a program that teaches members about leadership skills, confidence, teamwork, discipline, resilience, and problem-solving, and also volunteered to direct the grade 12 play performed in January. This not only required leadership of her peers, but sensitivity towards designing a show surrounding mental health struggles. Reem’s compassion and dedication to her school community will not be forgotten!

Lauren M.

Merivale High School

Lauren M. is an intelligent, spirited, and caring student leader at Merivale High School. She is a master at building connections with those around her, listening to their thoughts and concerns, and using these conversations to create real change. Lauren thrives in hands-on, collaborative work, and has the discipline to work well independently or to lead in a group setting. As Co-President of the Merivale Student Council, Lauren has worked hard to foster cross-cultural learning and understanding. She has consulted with the Black Excellence and Rainbow Nation clubs to design items of school clothing that promote inclusivity along with school spirit, and for the “Kindness Month of May” initiative, she led many different activities and engaged every school club and every teacher leader to participate. As Co-Executive of the Merivale Athletic Council, Lauren also helped to re-introduce Intramurals to the school. Her team organized and coordinated the athletes on the court, championed appropriate fan behaviour amongst their peers, and created a widely engaging opportunity to play or cheer on the athletes! Lauren understands the distinction between competitive athletes and the greater commitment to be strong, informed athletes who care about others through leadership. She has shown great compassion in her role as co-captain of the field hockey team - when the team was at a tournament on the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, she gathered everyone together to share information about the day’s history and importance, and provided the team with orange shirt pins for their uniforms. All in all, Lauren is a dynamic leader, a strong student, an excellent athlete, a dedicated volunteer, and a caring and loyal friend to others!

Harris N.

Gloucester High School

Harris N. is the epitome of a community builder, especially when it comes to helping newcomers to Canada and Grade 9 students adjusting to high school life. He has been the driving force behind the International Friendship Club at Gloucester High School, ensuring new students have a place to go at lunch where they can meet peers from around the world, and is a key member of the Medlife Club and a strong LINK Leader. Harris consistently gives up his free time to give tours of the school, help new Vietnamese students with translation, and to organize and attend nearly every extracurricular event. He is approachable, kind, respectful, and incredibly helpful to everyone he meets. On top of being an incredible member of the school community, Harris also excels academically: due to his incredible work ethic, passion for learning, and self-advocacy skills, Harris will graduate top of his class. His presence will be missed at Gloucester High School, but staff and students can't wait to see what his very bright future holds!

Nico P.

Sir Wilfrid Laurier Secondary School

Nico P. has made a significant impact during his time at Sir Wilfrid Laurier Secondary School. He has raised significant community awareness regarding issues of inequity and intolerance, has promoted student diversity through the GSA club, and has co-created a “Valuing Voices” space that showcases the achievements of underrepresented people. In June 2022, Nico co-curated a Pride art exhibit of pieces created by students, all thanks to a request for artwork they had put out to students. They have also been an invaluable asset to the school yearbook, where they have demonstrated creativity, leadership and dedication and served as Lead Student Editor for 2022-2023. While completing a Co-Op placement in the school as a teacher assistant, Nico helped with social media marketing for events, assisted in library cataloguing and circulation, and offered graphic design skills by creating signage in the learning commons. He has also generously offered his photography and graphic design skills to many affinity groups at the school. Whether he is supporting Orange Shirt Day, the Muslim Students Association, the Black 365 Student Union, or productions by the Theatre Club, he always lends a hand and demonstrates a strong belief in equity, diversity, and inclusion. In every aspect of school life, Nico has been there to provide support and encouragement, and their school community is truly grateful!

William P.

Woodroffe High School

William P. has demonstrated exceptional personal initiative during his time at Woodroffe High School. Through the quality of his written products, his high degree of classroom engagement, his time management, and his self-starting skills, he has shown to his teachers that he possesses the necessary competencies to earn his Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) while enrolled in the General Learning Program, a traditionally non-credit program. With fast-approaching deadlines, William completed and passed a range of grade-level assignments in major subject areas like English and Mathematics, all while following a full academic timetable and completing a cooperative education placement at Winners. William also balances his studies with extra-curricular activities like hockey, cooking classes, and an active social life. As a person with Down Syndrome, William has faced prejudice and bias and overcome many obstacles to remain a motivated, hard-working, and intellectually curious individual. Congratulations, William!

Anna R.

Lisgar Collegiate Institute

Anna R. has been a supportive and innovative presence for both students and staff during her time at Lisgar Collegiate Institute. She has spearheaded the introduction of a new breakfast program at the school, which has had a strong positive influence on a significant number of her peers. Anna has also organized many Student Council wellness activities to support mental health, is head of Lisgar’s Intersectional Feminist Club, and has volunteered in the school’s specialized program class. She has found many creative new ways to support student well-being, like working with school administration to provide fresh fruit to students during the exam period, and has been a leading contributor to this year's Rainbow Alliance Showcase and Lisgar’s Day Against Injustice initiative.

Kristina S.

OCV Secondary School

Kristina S. is an exemplary student at OCV Secondary School, who has demonstrated consistent care for the experiences of others. A big highlight of her contributions to this virtual school is her creation of the "after grad" project, an initiative that ensured all students had the chance to celebrate their graduation. Knowing that many students wouldn’t be attending the graduation ceremonies at the schools they had attended prior to OCV Secondary School, Kristina took it upon herself to ensure every graduating student would have the chance to celebrate in the way that felt best to them. Through her efforts to organize and plan in-person activities for the students of OCV Secondary School, Kristina has truly helped create the culture of caring that so many students need!

Daniel V.

Elizabeth Wyn Wood Alternate High School Program

In his time at Elizabeth Wyn Wood, Daniel V. has shown that he doesn’t just persevere through adversity, he thrives! It all started with a conversation about 10 ideas to make the school a better place, and he only gained momentum from there. Daniel used his leadership skills to amplify the voices of students who have felt marginalized or mistreated, working to bring the Human Rights and Equity Advisor to the school to answer questions about students’ rights and Board processes regarding systemic discrimination. Daniel has helped create and lead Student Voices, a student advocacy group that empowers others to bring creative ideas, suggestions, and concerns to administration and staff. He has also brought fun social activities back to the school once lockdowns ended, proposed and championed student initiatives like Cross-Curricular Genius Hours, advocated for more awareness around vaping, and much more. Daniel links ideas back to educational theory, student voice, and the betterment of all, and has used past negative school experiences as a catalyst to improve the school environment. He has had an incredible ability to take negative school experiences and turn them into an impetus for systemic change. His advocacy for student voice and hard work to create positive change are more than deserving of this Student Recognition Award!

Mawadda Y.

Ridgemont High School

Mawadda Y. is an outstanding student at Ridgemont High School who has demonstrated a remarkable commitment to academic excellence and an unwavering dedication to personal growth. Mawadda’s thirst for knowledge is obvious in everything she does; she possesses an insatiable curiosity that drives her to succeed with an impressive level of depth and understanding. Beyond her academic achievements, Mawada possesses remarkable leadership skills, leading by example as leader of the Muslim Students Association, within extracurricular activities, in community service, in school clubs, and more. Her empathetic nature fosters a supportive environment for all, enabling her classmates to thrive and reach their full potential. Not only is Mawadda intellectually gifted, she also possesses a strong moral compass and consistently demonstrates integrity, honesty, and respect. Her humility and willingness to listen and learn from others are qualities that set her apart! Mawadda has made significant contributions to the school community and her passion and dedication to her education has inspired her peers and teachers alike. The Ridgemont school community is confident that her future endeavours will be marked by continued success and her ability to make a significant difference in the world.

Maryam A.

Woodroffe High School

Maryam A. is a tireless advocate for equity at Woodroffe High School, where she has dedicated herself as a student senator and a key advocate for the establishment of a Muslim Student Association (MSA). She is also the lead of the Black Student Association and has made significant contributions to Cohort5 of the Black Youth Forum. With her excellent communication skills and her passion and enthusiasm for equity, Maryam has been able to spearhead initiatives that promote a more welcoming and equitable environment. Not only does Maryam create a safe and comfortable space for students, she also shows students the importance of diversity. She has made the school a more unified place by encouraging students of all backgrounds to come together and learn from each other. Maryam's continuous commitment to underserved and underrepresented students and her passion for the equitable treatment of all students makes her an inspiration to others looking to promote change in their communities. Woodroffe is grateful for Maryam’s tireless promotion of equality and inclusivity within her school community!

Soumeya E.

Ridgemont High School

Soumeya E. is a high-achieving student, dedicated volunteer, and active leader in Ridgemont High School’s Black Student Union. Soumeya has displayed excellence in equity leadership and has demonstrated a deep commitment to serving others through many volunteer and leadership roles, all with a smile and welcoming demeanour. Soumeya has been committed to community service in the OCDSB’s Annual Black Youth Forum, as a leader of Ottawa Virtual Secondary Black Students and Allies Committee, and in the Somali Centre for Family Services. Soumeya is an individual of strong character, with a positive attitude and excellent interpersonal skills. She is well-respected by her peers and teachers alike, and always conducts herself in a responsible and professional manner. She is an intelligent, responsible, and personable young woman who demonstrates thoughtfulness and maturity, and who has demonstrated strong potential to make a positive impact in her community!

Xue S.

OCV Secondary School

Xue S. is the heartbeat and president of OCV Secondary School’s Key Club, where she has organized almost all of the school’s volunteer initiatives. She has been an incredible leader behind the scenes, always working with efficiency and humility to empower other students to make meaningful change. Xue has either developed or helped run every single volunteer opportunity at the school, where students have benefitted from initiatives like peer tutoring and mental and physical health awareness initiatives, and the wider community has benefitted from having funds raised and having access to incredible student volunteers! Xue has also helped her peers out with university applications and other needs, and is a consistent positive and patient role model for all.

Alexis H.

South Carleton High School

Alexis H. is loved and appreciated by students and staff alike at South Carleton High School. As the school's Student Senator, she has represented her school with poise and diplomacy at the District level. Alexis has maintained an Honour Roll average throughout her high school career, all while contributing to many facets of the school like the Student Council, Girls Group, Rainbow Club, HOPE Club, and Appreciation of Diversity. She is a change maker who has worked closely with individuals at all levels to develop an inclusive and inviting community, having dedicated much of her time to helping her community through environmental clean-ups, mental health initiatives, and martial arts training. In addition to her incredible contributions to school and community, Alexis' leadership is felt in the athletics department through her commitment to the volleyball, cross country, and wrestling teams. In all aspects of school life, Alexis has inspired others to learn, achieve and serve!

Raquel L.

Glebe Collegiate Institute

Raquel L. has taken great initiative this year to help Glebe Collegiate Institute be a welcoming and inclusive space for all. She has helped lead the Diverse Student Union, creating a safe space for students of all lived experiences and forming meaningful, lasting relationships with them. She coaches other students in finding their voice, becoming agents of change, and to celebrate who they are. Raquel is beyond her years in noticing issues at school, always bringing up when things are not as they should be and representing student voice at all levels. She has worked to create an alliance with administration to improve the student experience and communicate students’ needs. She has organized many events throughout the school year to celebrate diversity and culture and to contribute to school spirit. Raquel’s leadership has changed the landscape of Glebe in a positive way. Her passion, attention to issues, and commitment to equity and inclusion will surely make a positive impact wherever she goes - she is truly going to change the world!

Marlayah M.

Canterbury High School

Well known within the Canterbury community as a vocalist, an athlete, and as one of the Co-Presidents of the Black Students’ Association, Marlayah M. is also well-respected as a community builder who excels at all she does. She is remarkably committed to mentoring future leaders and helping to create a community in which all students feel welcomed and seen. As part of LINK Crew, she helps to create a welcoming environment for newcomers to Canterbury and supports them throughout their first year of high school. In addition, she co-produced a compelling and meaningful Black History Month celebration that engaged and inspired all members of the school community. As part of this assembly and as a gift to the school, Marlayah engineered and lent her voice to the school’s newest rendition of O Canada, a sophisticated, multi-track, bilingual version of the national anthem. Marlayah is truly a role model in her commitment to equity and inclusion!

Mariam S.

John McCrae Secondary School

Mariam S. has been involved in many activities and initiatives in order to promote inclusion and a positive school environment at John McCrae Secondary School. She has been an active member of the school’s LINK crew, has hosted the Remembrance Day assembly and talent show, and has served as an executive member of the Diversity in STEM Club. In all of these roles, she has been an excellent and welcoming representative of the school. As an executive member of the Diversity in STEM Club, Mariam has created a variety of fun and engaging activities to help foster students’ interest in STEM-related fields. She has also worked to encourage all peers that they can pursue further work in a STEM field regardless of their background. She has also demonstrated positive leadership skills in her work as an executive member, particularly by valuing their contributions and strengths in the planning of activities for the club. Mariam is resilient, determined and confident, always willing to take risks and faces challenges head-on. She readily displays an eagerness and willingness to learn, and shares her knowledge with her peers by assisting them!

Mars W-Y.

Richard Pfaff Alternate Program

Mars W-Y. is a positive force and a great spirit at Richard Pfaff Alternate Program. He excels academically while demonstrating fierce devotion to the causes and people he cares about. Since Mars arrived at Richard Pfaff, he has been a consistently positive and enthusiastic person, and has demonstrated resilience that inspires his peers. Mars stands for the values of Richard Pfaff, in that diversity is a source of strength! He advocates for a safe and inclusive school environment and supports students by voicing their concerns through vehicles like the Diversity Club. Mars embodies a compassionate yet determined approach to academic work, and to the social causes that will make the world a better place.