The 2025 Reverend John C. Holland Awards, held on February 21, celebrated the achievements of Black youth in Hamilton. A document 38 awards and scholarships had been offered, recognizing excellent contributions to the neighborhood. Chair Terri Bedminster famous that this 12 months noticed 100 nominees, showcasing a various vary of skills and accomplishments. She additionally recommended the efforts of commencement coaches and academics who performed a big function in encouraging college students to use.
Among the many awardees was 17-year-old Maya Ahmed, who gained a youth achievement bursary for her dedication to social causes. Maya, who goals to pursue a profession in regulation, was deeply shocked when her identify was known as.
“I used to be frozen in shock,” she mentioned. The popularity meant so much to her, particularly as a first-generation immigrant, and she or he was thrilled to see her arduous work being acknowledged.
Deborah Kenea, one other 17-year-old scholar, acquired the YWCA Hamilton Younger Lady – Trailblazer Scholarship. Deborah plans to review science, know-how, engineering, and math (STEM) and famous the significance of getting extra African ladies represented in these fields.
“All the time consider in your self,” she suggested different youth, emphasizing the ability of self-confidence and perseverance.
Evelyn Myrie, who co-founded the Reverend John C. Holland Awards, spoke concerning the significance of encouraging younger folks to interact in social change. “It’s vital that we encourage younger folks to take up the mantle,” she mentioned.
This 12 months, the Evelyn Myrie Political Motion Bursary was awarded to David Feboke for his social justice work, with Myrie expressing pleasure about mentoring him sooner or later.
Among the many scholarship recipients was Garry Kabera, whose father was tragically killed in a police-involved taking pictures in November. Garry expressed deep gratitude for the help he acquired, particularly within the wake of such a traumatic occasion. He thanked his household, steering counselor, and God for his or her power all through this difficult time.
Bedminster emphasised the necessity for the neighborhood to proceed supporting Black youth and their households. “Many of those youth have their very own struggles that we don’t learn about,” she mentioned, highlighting the significance of exhibiting up and caring for the entire particular person.
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