Spirit of Youth Awards

The 2016 Spirit of Youth Awards were held Tuesday evening at the Community Centre.

youth, from both Whitecourt

Woodlands County were celebrated for their positive contributions to the community. MCs Darnell Jendrick and Asia Matycio introduced the award recipients, sharing clear reasons why each was nominated. From local leadership roles to persevering through adversities and giving back through volunteering, all of the youths, aged 12 to 18, are incredibly deserving of the accolades. Both Mayor Chichak and Mayor Rennie took a moment to thank the students, acknowledging the hard work each put forward and encouraging them to continue. Motivational speaker, Georgette Reed

wrapped up the evening with an inspiring talk about her life and how she overcame challenges and adversities to do great things. Georgette represented Canada at the Olympics, won 17 national titles (two discus, 15 shot put), is a coach with the

niversity​ of Alberta, both Athletics Alberta and Canada

and works with clients as a certified athletics and strength/conditioning coach with over 38 year

of competitive experience in athletics, bobsleigh, swimming

and water polo. Being told she couldn’t do something early on in life led Georgette to push until she could. That cheerful positivity, strong determination

and wanting to help others is something she enjoyed sharing with our 2016 Spirit of Youth recipients. Congratulations to all the winners!