My name is Raissa Amany (she/her), and I am currently an Honours Bachelor of Health Sciences specializing in Population and Public Health student at the University of Ottawa.

Being a minority has become a familiar feeling in my daily life. Upon immigrating to Canada, I felt a generic label was put on me; the low-income, disabled, brown girl from a developing country. However, I want to disprove all perceptions surrounding people like me.

This feeling was compounded when I started developing chronic migraine in my adolescence. From continuous disability and being bounced between specialists- my disability has ignited a passion: advocating for health equity, mental health, and improving the pediatrics healthcare system.

And while I may be labelled as a “minority,” I am proud of that identity. My hope is that my passion continues to improve the system; because no other child should go through what I went through to get the care they need.

My name is Kherto Ahmed and I am a MSc in Integrative Biosciences, School of Kinesiology student at Western University.

As a follower of the Islamic faith, I draw inspiration and motivation for community work from its teachings that puts emphasis on selfless assistance and empathy, further reinforcing my determination to support those in need and make a meaningful impact on their lives.

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "The best of people are those who are most beneficial to people.”

This principle forms the core of my unwavering commitment to constantly share kindness, knowledge, resources and ideas with those around me.

Reuben M. Nashali is a newcomer and a Carleton University Student of Global and International Studies specializing in Global Development and Economics.

“Coming to Canada as a black young man, on Feb 28, 2017, I encountered a lot of challenges and while trying to navigate the system, I then realized I was not alone. Almost all of my peers were facing some sort of challenge and some even faced more challenges.

Fast track to 2020 when the Covid-19 challenges even worsened, while trying to reimagine on how I can support my close friends that is when I realize my passion for helping others. I would say, the social challenges like mental health struggles and discrimination that youth who look like me face every day are what motivate me to do the community work I do.”

Lilly is a student at Carleton University studying Global and International Studies, specializing in Global Migration and Transnationalism.

"My parents are undoubtedly my biggest inspiration and my biggest cheerleaders.

They are the reason I decided to get involved with the community from a young age, and I wouldn't be where I am today without their support. As Cambodian refugees who came to Canada and established fulfilling lives for themselves where they have become valuable members of the community, their stories are proof of how resilient, hardworking, and compassionate a person can be. Every day, I strive to embody these character traits, and giving back has become my way of saying thank you to all the people who helped my family in the past. These values are just like the ones Abel built his life upon, and I am absolutely honoured to be receiving such a meaningful award.”

Aislinn is a student at Carleton University Studying Public Affairs and Policy Management. She has shown a large dedication to volunteerism through being a Rotary International volunteer since 2014 where she would engage and help run numerous charity events supporting different causes. Additionally, she has volunteered with the Wabano Centre for Aboriginal Health where she supported Indigenous youth, like herself. Further, Aislinn has been a volunteer for the Humanitarian Organization for Latin American Students during her time in Mexico where she worked with numerous NGOs.

Ariam is a recent high school graduate who will begin her studies at Ryerson University in the fall where she will study Social Work. She has worked as a NewNakfa Health Ambassador this past year where she played a role in the health package program for those in her community. Further, she has extensive experience working with the Toronto Community Housing Corporation where she went on to educate other youth about the disparity in the housing system. Additionally, Ariam is a coach and referee for her eritrean community soccer organization with the goal of keeping Eritrean youth engaged and active.

Nemica is a student at Carleton University studying Public Affairs and Policy Management Specializing in Public Administration with a concentration in Social Policy. Over the years, she has been a freelance writer on topics including inequality and discrimintion within her ethnic community. Further, she is a dedicated leader to the World University Service of Canada where she is the current President, playing a key role in overseeing the sponsorship of refugee students to Carleton. Additionally, Nemica is the Equity Chair of the Carleton New Democrats, where she continues to share her passion for equity within politics on her school's campus.