The winners of the 24th annual Leaders of Tomorrow awards were finalized last week.
The Leaders of Tomorrow program recognizes the outstanding contributions of youth in the community who show dedication and commitment to leadership, in any field.
This year there were 30 nominees. Each nominee received a certificate from the Leaders of Tomorrow committee, a certificate from MP Blaine Calkins, and a $25 gift card.
Each winner received a plaque and a $75 cheque.
All nominations are sent to anonymous judges who use a score sheet and the highest two in each category win.
This year’s winners are Elise Resler and Ryland Mendoza in the junior category and Emily David and Cydney Newton in the senior category.
Resler is in Grade 8 at Ponoka Secondary Campus (PSC). She is on the student council, is a member of the humanitarian club, and volunteers at the Ponoka Hospital handling the water cart and volunteers at summer drama camp as well.
Mendoza, in Grade 9 at PSC takes part in cultural ceremonies and is a pow wow dancer, tutors and gives child care, is part of a girl empowerment group and volunteers with Santa’s Anonymous.
David, in Grade 12 at PSC, is on student council, is part of the humanitarian club, is a Big Brothers Big Sisters mentor and is a Sunday school teacher at her church.
Newton, in Grade 11 at St. Augustine School, is in the leadership training and discipleship group, is part of Youth Unlimited, is children’s pastor at Ponoka Community Church and volunteers as a volleyball coach.
The awards night, which was to be held on April 19, at the PSC, was cancelled due to COVID-19.
