The 2021 essay contest “What is Your Vision for Canada?” winners were presented with their certificates at our annual Student, Alumni and Community Recognition Awards dinner on November 25, 2021 in a hybrid format, with 80 in-person guests and just as many on Zoom. Professor Alena Kimakova (SPPA Director), and Milena Basciano (President) of our Public Policy and Administration Student Association (PPASA), congratulated the recipients and remarked on the excellence of their essays.
Congratulations to the award winners!
First Prize
Pritika Lally | Grade 12
Donald A. Wilson Secondary School
Whitby, ON
A Longing Call to Prioritize the Safety of Indigenous Women against Violence in Canada (PDF)
Second Prize
Isabella Wossen | Grade 10
Omer-Deslauriers Secondary Public School
Ottawa, ON
Third Prize
Isabella Yue | Grade 12
Paul Kane High School
St. Albert, AB
In addition to educating young adults, schools with emphasis on learning Indigenous traditions and languages at the elementary level should be government-funded as reparation for years of cultural and language loss caused by residential schools. Funding such schools would allow Indigenous peoples to reclaim their heritage and prevent any more language and cultural loss.
— Isabella Yue
I’d like to start off by expressing my gratitude for this incredible award. I’m even more grateful for being given the opportunity to raise ableism awareness in Canada. Silencing the voices of those who need support is a habit that needs to be stopped. Not only is it revolting, but such a shame that we are wasting valuable knowledge from incredible citizens. By allowing them to obtain proper education, funds, and care, we are essentially leading our country to a future of success and unity.
— Isabella Wossen