Markham Youth Expo Award Winners
MARKHAM, ON – May 7, 2018 – Every May, Markham honors the engagement of its youth and highlights their active involvement in various community aspects such as civic duty, culture, recreation, arts, and sports. In collaboration with the Markham Mayor’s Youth Council, Markham hosted its largest annual Youth Expo at the Markham Village Community Centre & Library on Saturday, May 5. The event featured family-friendly activities including an inflatable dance zone and competition, Markham X talent showcase, food trucks, an exotic car show, a youth art zone, and much more. Mayor Frank Scarpitti awarded the Markham Youth Awards to three exceptional individuals who have dedicated their time to support young people in our City: Gloria Huang is a Grade 7 student from Sam Chapman Public School who participates in various clubs and councils at her school. Besides playing the flute in her school band and writing for the student paper, Gloria is a member of the school’s Social Committee where she helps organize events for elementary students in Markham. This marks Gloria’s second year on the Markham Mayor’s Junior Council and she eagerly anticipates continuing her contributions to youth programs that positively influence our community.
As a Grade 9 student at St. Brother Andre Catholic High School, Effiea Ponniah has a deep passion for music. She plays several instruments including piano, violin, flute, guitar and veenai. Additionally, she enjoys public speaking, dance classes, skating, vocal training and swimming. Effiea loves volunteering with various organizations that support children with autism both at her school and throughout Markham. She can often be found at many cultural events across the city showcasing its rich diversity. Volunteering allows Effiea to connect with peers while exploring new environments and contributes to making Markham a wonderful place for everyone.
Joey Chan is a Grade 12 student enrolled in the arts music program at Unionville High School. She’s involved with her school’s wind ensemble, symphonic orchestra, student council and DECA. This year Joey also co-founded the school’s Wellness Council aimed at raising awareness about mental health through workshops and initiatives within the student body. One of her goals this year was to launch a free breakfast program for all students and staff members. In addition to this effort,, her wellness council organized numerous enjoyable workshops including meditation sessions featuring therapy dogs and yoga classes. Joey also served as co-president of Operation Med School Toronto this year-a non-profit that hosts an informative medical conference for high school students across the GTA interested in health sciences careers. Joey’s commitment to helping others through music and promoting wellness has enabled her to give back not only to her school but also to the broader community-she hopes others will be inspired by what she’s doing.
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