This category recognizes youth who have shown remarkable courage, determination and leadership while overcoming significant personal or community adversity. This award celebrates strength of character, impact and the ability to inspire others.
* must have taken place within the last 18 months or is clearly ongoing
Key areas:
- Overcome Adversity – faced significant personal, family, social or systemic challenges
- Leadership and positive action – took initiative to lead, create, change or support others despite personal struggles
- Impact on others – made a tangible or emotional difference in the lives of others
- Character and Growth – demonstrated resilience, perseverance and a growth mindset
Candidates will be scored using the following criteria:
- Started a project, led a group, supported peers or advocated for an issue
- Contributed to a cause, or built stronger community connections
- Turned adversity into a strength or opportunity to grow and give back
- Demonstrated empathy, responsibility, courage and humility; showed personal development
- Acted as a role model and mentor to encourage, motivate or inspire others
- Provides ongoing leadership, direction, encouragement and support of others