The Leaders of Tomorrow Awards, organized by the Grande Prairie Regional Association of Volunteer Organizations, celebrate exceptional young leaders in Grande Prairie and its neighbouring areas. These awards are intended for young individuals aged 13 to 18 and are categorized into four unique groups:
- Leadership: Acknowledging youths who take initiative in leadership roles to create positive change within their schools or communities.
- Volunteerism: Recognizing youths whose civic involvement enhances lives and fosters community resilience.
- Advocacy: Honoring youths who dedicate their time and energy to champion causes that drive social change.
- Perseverance: Highlighting youths who have triumphed over challenges to assist others.
The young leaders recognized in each category exhibit remarkable commitment and excellence in their volunteer efforts across various domains, including education, community service, social activism, athletics, and the arts. They serve as role models, inspiring others to embrace the spirit of volunteerism.
The 2024 Leaders of Tomorrow Awards were presented during the Annual International Volunteer Day Celebration Breakfast on December 5th, 2024.
Recipients of the Leaders of Tomorrow Awards receive a trophy, a certificate, a monetary prize of $100, and a $100 donation made in their name to a local registered charity of their choice.
The 2024 Leaders of Tomorrow are:
Leadership Award - Allegra Pardy
Allegra, is a truly remarkable young leader whose influence stretches far beyond her local community.
Allegra’s involvement in 4-H speaks for itself—she’s served as Secretary and Vice-President of the Sexsmith 4-H Multi Club, Vice-President of the Grande Prairie 4-H District, and a Camp Counselor at both regional and provincial levels. Her leadership is built on a foundation of helping others succeed, inspiring confidence in her peers, and making sure everyone has a chance to shine.
Beyond 4-H, Allegra is an accomplished athlete, competing in the Alberta Winter Games and Arctic Winter Games. Even after sustaining an injury, she continued to support her teammates, showing resilience and teamwork.
Allegra’s impact is felt in everything she does, and I have no doubt that she will continue to inspire and lead for years to come. Please join me in celebrating this exceptional young leader.
Leadership Award - Blake Parker
Blake Parker is an exceptional young leader whose dedication to service and community involvement has made a lasting impact. A member of the Sexsmith 4-H Multi Club since 2018, Blake has spent the past seven years actively volunteering and contributing to various community initiatives. In addition to his leadership role as the Grande Prairie 4-H District President, Blake is also a committed player on the Sexsmith Sabres Football team and a member of the City of Grande Prairie’s Youth Advisory Council.
Blake’s willingness to help is evident in his proactive involvement in numerous activities, from attending meetings and organizing events to volunteering for tasks like stacking chairs or collecting items. He stepped into the role of Grande Prairie 4-H District President with confidence and received high praise from his peers for his leadership during his first meeting.
Beyond 4-H, Blake has contributed to community service efforts such as highway clean-ups and public speaking workshops. His time on the Youth Advisory Council allowed him to voice important issues affecting teens in Grande Prairie, further highlighting his commitment to making a positive impact.
Blake Parker is a true leader and role model, inspiring others with his hard work, generosity, and passion for community service.
Volunteerism Award- Brooke Page
Brooke has dedicated over 650 hours of volunteer service within the City of Grande Prairie. Her selflessness and commitment to others are truly inspiring. Whether she’s mentoring children ages 3 to 16 at a local gym or spending time with seniors and individuals with disabilities at a local care home, Brooke is always giving her time and energy to those in need. She doesn’t just play games, build puzzles, or read; she brings joy to the lives of others, for example Brooke dresses as Santa during the holidays spreading cheer wherever she goes.
Brooke’s impact extends beyond organized programs. She selflessly offers her time to help seniors living independently, providing services like pet grooming, dog walking, and cleaning—all free of charge. Her unwavering kindness and dedication to others exemplify true leadership and outstanding citizenship.
Brooke’s actions are a testament to the power of community service, and it is clear that she is a leader who is shaping a brighter future for all of us.
Volunteerism Award - Madisyn Page
Madisyn has dedicated over 700 hours of volunteer service to the City of Grande Prairie. She is an inspiring individual who shares her time and compassion in multiple ways.
Whether volunteering solo or with her sister, Madisyn can be found mentoring children aged 3–16 at a local gym, helping them develop skills and confidence. She also gives her time at a local care home for seniors and individuals with disabilities, where she brings joy through games, puzzles, reading, and companionship. Her kindness even extends to dressing as Santa to spread cheer during the holidays.
Madisyn’s commitment to helping those in need is unwavering. She collects and distributes warm clothing, such as gloves, toques, scarves, and provides meals to the less fortunate, particularly during the harsh winter months.
Her positive impact and exceptional citizenship within our community make her truly deserving of this recognition.
Advocacy Award - Joshua Verhage
Joshua embodies the true spirit of volunteerism through his selfless efforts in Beaverlodge, where he regularly assists neighbors, including seniors and individuals with disabilities, with tasks such as snow removal, yard work, and garbage collection.
In addition to his neighborhood work, Joshua has made a significant impact as a youth coach. His positive attitude, kindness, and dedication in both group activities and one-on-one mentoring have profoundly shaped the lives of many young people.
Joshua’s commitment extends to his volunteer work with COPA for Kids, where he teaches aviation basics and safety to youth, demonstrating his passion for guiding and inspiring the next generation.
In every aspect of his volunteerism, Joshua has shown unwavering dedication to our community, making a lasting and positive impact on all those he helps.
Perseverance Award - Meilea Lafontaine
Meilea, co-founder of The Children’s Harmony Foundation, has brought joy to many children by organizing Christmas care packages for those in shelters. Her compassion shines through her work at the Grande Prairie Cancer Centre, where she knitted and delivered 150 stuffed animals to comfort cancer patients.
As co-president of the Interact Club, Meilea has raised funds for breast cancer research. She also creates Indigenous-themed coloring books for children undergoing medical treatment, combining her artistic talent with her passion for Indigenous culture.
Meilea’s community involvement includes teaching hip hop dance to kids and hosting “My Brother’s Keeper,” a podcast supporting families with siblings who have disabilities. Her dedication to uplifting Indigenous communities, advocating for children with disabilities, and fostering inclusivity defines her character.
Meilea exemplifies empathy, creativity, and leadership, serving as a role model for youth involvement. Let us celebrate her remarkable achievements as she inspires us to build more compassionate communities.
Congratulations to the 2024 Leaders of Tomorrow!
2024 Leaders of Tomorrow Awards Sponsored by:
