In continuing efforts to recognize the future of the community, 70 Leduc students were celebrated at the annual Mayor’s Youth Leadership Recognition and Awards Luncheon Nov. 5.
The ceremony was held at the Best Western Plus Denham Inn and Suites and each table of students was seated with a table host — an already established leader in the community in their own right — to visit with the students and further congratulate them on the impact they have in Leduc, despite their young age.
“All of us on council, every one of us are so proud of what you do in our community,” said Greg Krischke, mayor.
Krischke explained to those in attendance the students were acknowledged for their achievements by others in their lives who saw their potential and actions; including teachers, coaches and other community members.
Leadership is not something that fits in a box, says Krischke, and the students awarded have grown to be young pillars of the community in many different ways — in their own way.
“I really want to thank you for being who you are,” said Krischke.
“You can influence the future of this great city, and the region, and the province, and the nation,” he added.
Anthony Jueta and Julia Youm are just two of the several students honoured during the ceremony and both believe it is imperative for youth to get involved in their community and be a leader.
Jueta was pleased to receive the recognition but says the limelight is not what is important when it comes to leadership. “It feels great. I wasn’t expecting to receive it I just do what I do and help people out.”
“Being a leader, taking responsibility … if there’s no leaders what can you do, right? You need to take responsibility and help people out” he added.
Youm was proud of how many students like herself strive to make a difference in their community. “I’m very impressed.”
“I’m so glad that I’m able to go in society and do what I can,” she added.