June 24, 2014

TWELFTH ANNUAL COMMUNITY LEADER AWARDS • JUNE 19, 2014 The annual Community Leader Awards recognize the selfless, dedicated and courageous people who perform the exceptional acts of service that make our community such a vibrant and rewarding place to live and work.

COACH Makes a positive contribution to their sport. Is exemplary in developing skills and confidence in participants. A role model who inspires and encourages high athletic achievement.

TEACHER Makes a positive contribution by being a true leader.

Demonstrates a high level of ethics and professional stadards, is an inspirational motivator, excellent communicator, good listener and a reliable resource to the community.

COURAGE This person has risen above adversity or formidable challenges to become a success. As a result, they have had a positive effect on the people around them.

ABOVE AND BEYOND This person makes a positive contribution to their community through their work. Someone who goes beyond the requirements of their job to support the community and make it a better place.

EMERGENCY SERVICE Makes a positive contribution to the community by going the extra mile – over and above the call of duty. Is exemplary in the area of emergency services and unselfishly shoulders enormous responsibility while accepting the potential risks and challenges of the job.

SERVICE ORGANIZATION VOLUNTEER This individual makes a positive contribution to the community by volunteering their time to one community service organization. This person is well thought of and is significantly relied upon by others in the organization.

VOLUNTEER This individual makes a positive contribution to the community by volunteering their time to a variety of causes. They are dedicated to making a difference in several initiatives.

YOUTH VOLUNTEER Makes a positive contribution to youth in the community.

Someone who is depended upon and committed to provide direction, programs and/or support to ensure our youth have positive experiences.

ENVIRONMENTAL LEADER Makes a positive contribution to the community by championing environmentally friendly initiatives. Someone who inspires others to be “green” by being a leader in ecologically sound practices.

COMMUNITY BUILDER Someone who has taken the initiative to engage a variety of Surrey residents in an innovative or new community project or event. The initiative may assist different groups to work together, address a gap in community participation, or result in a more inclusive, engaged community.

LEADER OF THE YEAR Rises above the rest by demonstrating leadership in all that he or she does. Makes a postitive contribution to the community and is a role model to look up to.

IT’S ALL ABOUT COMMITMENT Community Leader Awards

2014 Celebrating the building blocks of our community

Proud to be in your community for 85 years!

2 Surrey/North Delta Leader Tuesday, June 24, 2014

T WELFTH ANNUAL COMMUNIT Y LEADER AWARDS JUNE 19, 2014

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE Community Leader Awards 2014

PUBLISHER

Jim Mihaly

2014 RECIPIENTS!

■ Stories by Nicolle Hodges ■ Photos by Evan Seal

EDITOR

Paula Carlson

MASTER OF CEREMONIES

Bruce Hayne Former CLA Recipient

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Sheila Reynolds

They don’t often receive recognition and don’t necessarily have a high profile in the community.

But there are a large number of people in Surrey and North Delta who do a great deal of important work. They strive tirelessly – through countless volunteer hours, sometimes overcoming seemingly insurmountable obstacles – to better the community. And they don’t ask for anything in return.

You’ll find them in our schools, on sports fields, in care centres, at the food bank and at various local events.

ANNUALLY HONOURING AND CELEBRATING THE LEADERS IN OUR COMMUNITY WITH PRIDE.

They are truly community leaders.

Many have their own families, careers and personal commitments, but still find the time to make a difference by sharing their empathy, enthusiasm and energy.

The Community Leader Awards were established 12 years ago to recognize and honour the efforts essential to maintaining this vital and growing community.

Each of the recipients’ stories is inspirational, and by highlighting them, we hope others will be moved to contribute in the community and share their own skills, compassion, knowledge and heart with those around them.

Thanks to our sponsors, the Community Leader Awards get bigger and better every year.

GUEST SPEAKER

Steve Dooley 2013 Leader of the Year

GUEST SPEAKER

Judy Villeneuve City of Surrey, Councillor

L to R: Sherri Hemery, Glory Wilkinson, Evan Seal, Kassandra Mihaly, Shaulene Burkett, Jim Mihaly, Pam Langham, Steve Scott, Sheila Reynolds, Alan Champion, Paula Carlson, Gavin Roache, Parveen Deo, Vicky Basran.

Design and promotional concept since 2003 inception

Glory Wilkinson Creative Services Mgr / Graphic Designer

Tuesday, June 24, 2014 Surrey/North Delta Leader 3

Congratulations to the recipients of the 2014 Community Leader Awards!

MAYOR DIANNE WATTS

TOM GILL COUNCILLOR

BRUCE HAYNE COUNCILLOR

LINDA HEPNER COUNCILLOR

MARY MARTIN COUNCILLOR

BARINDER RASODE COUNCILLOR

BARBARA STEELE COUNCILLOR

JUDY VILLENEUVE COUNCILLOR

www.surrey.ca the future lives here

We share your commitment to making our community a better place to live.

DELTASSIST FAMILY AND COMMUNITY SERVICES 9097 120 Street, Delta, BC 604.594.3455 www.deltassist.com

Congratulations to all Community Leader nominees.

leader ( ‘li:d r) n. e

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR COMMUNITY LEADERS

1. One who motivates and inspires.

2. A person who helps others realize their potential.

3. One who is selÁess.

4. Someone who makes a difference To the Leaders in Education and all of the nominees and recipients of the 12th Annual Community Leader Awards, the Surrey Board of Education congratulates you and thanks you for your service to our community.

Congratulations Congratulations

the nomineesand andrecipients recipients the totothe nominees ofof the 2012 Community Leader Awards!

2014 Community Leader Awards!

ed white photographics

Thanks to everyone who supports Surrey Fire Fighters’ Charitable Society.

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4 Surrey/North Delta Leader Tuesday, June 24, 2014

The Surrey McDonald’s® restaurants are a proud sponsor of the Community Leader Awards

ABOVE AND BEYOND

We congratulate those who make positive contributions to this community, making it a better place to live, work and play.

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At McDonald’s Canada, we are committed to doing what is right; to being a good neighbour and a valued partner in every one of our communities. For us, giving back is more than simply a commitment – it’s the foundation of our company. ©2013 McDonald’s

Tuesday, June 24, 2014 Surrey/North Delta Leader 5

JUNE 19, 2014 T WELFTH ANNUAL COMMUNIT Y LEADER AWARDS

ABOVE AND BEYOND

TOP HONOUR

Jonquil Hallgate Big changes come in small gestures

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or those in the community without a home, they are not without hope.

Executive Director of the Surrey Urban Mission, Jonquil Hallgate wants individuals living in poverty or on the street to know that they have a place to go where the door is always open.

“Volunteering gives my life value and purpose and has allowed me to utilize skills and develop new ones, make incredible friendships with amazing human beings and see the best that Surrey has to offer on a daily basis,” Hallgate says.

Hallgate became a volunteer at the age of 15 with Burnaby Parks and Recreation in a summer playground program for children who were residents of Woodlands institution, and grew up without a family or people who loved them.

“Picking up a young child and holding them to sing to them is an experience that was not the norm in their lives, and had a profound effect on my sense of social

justice,” recalls Hallgate. “From that point on, volunteerism and doing what I could to make a difference in someone else’s life, whether it was something simple like saying hello to someone who often appears to be invisible to others, or something a bit more momentous like helping someone to find a place to live, has been integral to who I am.”

Seeing people come through the door of the Surrey Urban Mission who are in the throes of overcoming personal struggle are the same people who crave goodness and grace in place of that pain.

“Everyone has a story,” Hallgate says.

“We each can, in some measure, do something that makes a difference in the life of a neighbour. We can have a conversation, we can learn a name, we can offer a meal, we can supply some clothing, we can connect people to resources. We can build an intentional community of people who care about each other.”

SPONSORED BY

McDonald’s Restaurants

A

T H E B U I L D I N G B LO C K S O F O U R CO M M U N I T Y - I T ’ S A L L A B O U T CO M M I T M E N T

s executive director of the Phoenix Drug and Alcohol Society, Michael Wilson is often described as a visionary.

“The mistake is in thinking that things are the way they are and it is not within our power to change them,” says Wilson.

“We do have power to change the way things are when we actively participate as citizens in learning and deciding for ourselves what kind of cities we want to build.”

Wilson say the Phoenix Society’s increasing collaboration with the City of Surrey, other levels of government, educational institutions, and with the business, development and financial

HONOURABLE MENTION

HONOURABLE MENTION

Michael Wilson

Ramen Saggu

Collaboration help create a vibrant community

An angel in the world autism

sectors has demonstrated that innovative partnerships based on shared goals of accessibility and social inclusion not only assists vulnerable citizens, but can multiply community benefits. These benefits include reducing crime, substance misuse and homelessness; increasing employment and participation in the community and the economy; and making Surrey a vibrant, healthy, inclusive city for everyone.”

For Wilson, the most important thing is that all citizens are able to find the necessary support and resources to participate in their community and economy. Every day he works towards making that possible.

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or many families living with a child who has autism, life can become a long journey down a rocky path.

Clinical Director and CEO of Pacific ABA Academy Ramen Saggu wants to help pave that road. After nearly 20 years in the field, Saggu says it is still apparent that at the ground level there are not enough resources or financial support to help families run homebased ABA (Applied Behavioural Analysis) programs, which use techniques to help bring positive change to a child’s behaviour. She has decided to try to change that.

From voluntarily leading classes to educate Indian parents on how to support their autistic child, to co-founding the fundraising

group Angels for Autism, Saggu continues to be an innovative and passionate figure in the field.

As she works towards completing her PhD in clinical psychology, she also wants to establish a state-of- the-art diagnosis/ assessment and treatment center that will provide valuable service to parents and children.

“My ultimate desire is to touch the lives of as many children with autism and their families as I can through fundraising efforts, with the help of the community around us,” says Saggu. “I may not change the world, but if I can change a child’s world for the better, then I have more than achieved my dream.”

6 Surrey/North Delta Leader Tuesday, June 24, 2014

Congratulations on behalf of Save On Foods / Price Smart Foods on your incredible contributions involving sustainability and the environment.

BC Owned and Operated since 1915

Jeff Enger

Ken Christensen

Adam Rondquist

Ryan Duncan

Sarb Pannu

Save-On Foods Surrey Store Manager

Price Smart Foods Fleetwood Store Manager

Save-On Foods Nordel Store Manager

Save-On Foods Newton Store Manager

Save-On Foods Scottsdale Store Manager

We have a history of taking the lead when it comes to sustainable stores and we’re focused on continuing to do the right thing in every area of our business.

TALK ABOUT LOCAL‌

Tuesday, June 24, 2014 Surrey/North Delta Leader 7

JUNE 19, 2014 T WELFTH ANNUAL COMMUNIT Y LEADER AWARDS

ENVIRONMENTAL LEADER SPONSORED BY

Save-on-Foods

TOP HONOUR

Lu Jia (Lucia) Lin Student focuses on the green scene

L

u Jia Lin has been passionate about the environment since she was a child.

“I’ve been immersed in nature and aware of how it’s all being bleached - emerald evergreens reduced to stark grey concrete and azure skies awash in a grey haze of pollutions,” says Lin. “I suppose my desire to have the colours returned has been what my passion for environmentalism has stemmed from.”

Now she leads the Energy Ambassadors Program, working with BC Hydro to reduce school energy use, and she is collaborating with FCM Recycling to plan a Community Electronics Recycling Day set to launch this October.

She also created the Delta Youth Environmental League – a network to connect high school green teams and recently began work with UBC on Delta 2.0, an educational climate change video game.

T H E B U I L D I N G B LO C K S O F O U R CO M M U N I T Y - I T ’ S A L L A B O U T CO M M I T M E N T

HONOURABLE MENTION

Shakti Ramkumar Youth environmentalist has a passion for the planet

F Community Leader Awards

2014

As the organizer for Igniting A Spark, a conference that brings together students from across B.C. and inspires them to take action for sustainability, she was able to secure $5,000 in district funding.

While Lin is doing her part, she believes that as a whole it will take people altering their frame of mind in order to change the fate of the planet.

“We think environmentalism and our lives are two separate entities, as if we live in a insulated bubble unaffected by the affairs of the planet. Yet, everything that we hold dear - family, friends, music, literature - is inexorably connected to being able to live in a clean environment,” she says. “It is by attaining this perception and realizing that sustainability must be at the forefront that society can make a definitive change for the better.”

rom planting trees and removing invasive species, to educating the public about ecosystems with the Surrey Youth Stewardship Squad, to contributing to special events such as the Party for the Planet, “green” volunteering has always been important for Skakti Ramkumar.

The Kwantlen Park Secondary School graduate and UBC student has always been a strong voice for environmental stewardship.

In December of last year, she was offered the chance to participate in Students on Ice and travelled to Antarctica, where she learned firsthand about the importance of preserving the environment.

While in Grade 12, Ramkumar was also among 30 graduating high school students chosen from across the country to receive the Loran Scholarship – a

national award worth up to $80,000 for post-secondary education.

Ramkumar was excited and grateful to be a part of the Loran Scholar community, which is full of inspiring students doing great work across Canada.

“I am also motivated to learn constantly and take action, because I have a long way to go before I can be considered a leader,” says Ramkumar, who is studying engineering at UBC. She wants to continue expanding her networks and contributing to programs that give youth a voice when decisions regarding sustainable community development are made.

While at UBC, Ramkumar hopes to learn more about systems design and clean energy research to ultimately become the kind of leader she knows she can be.

8 Surrey/North Delta Leader Tuesday, June 24, 2014

PROUD SPONSOR OF THE 12TH ANNUAL COMMUNITY LEADER AWARDS

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Tuesday, June 24, 2014 Surrey/North Delta Leader 9

JUNE 19, 2014 T WELFTH ANNUAL COMMUNIT Y LEADER AWARDS

SERVICE ORGANIZATION VOLUNTEER SPONSORED BY

Central City

TOP HONOUR

Betty Sing Senior sees time as the most valuable gift

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or 88-year-old Betty Sing, time is a valuable gift. Each morning that she wakes up, her first thought is that she is alive to live another day, and give another day.

While her volunteer work at Surrey Memorial Hospital is priceless, she has also donated a total of $12,000 towards new equipment and other services, on top of helping to raise more than $3 million for the new emergency department throughout her 20-plus years as a member of the Auxiliary.

“It’s more than money, it’s the time I offer,” says Sing. “You can’t put a number on what you do. I’m just thankful that I have my health and can offer help to Surrey Memorial where they need it.”

For her 88th birthday, Sing asked friends and family to donate money to the Surrey Memorial Hospital Foundation, and was able to contribute $3,000 to palliative care.

“When my husband died, people also donated to the hospital,” Sing says.

The funds have been used to purchase an Iso Flex mattress – a hightech mattress used to prevent bedsores.

For Sing, the reasons behind her volunteering efforts come from her passion to give back to the community and motivate others.

“You just do it,” she says. “You end up meeting all of these people and working at these different places, and I just feel like it’s important to give to the community what time I do have.”

T H E B U I L D I N G B LO C K S O F O U R CO M M U N I T Y - I T ’ S A L L A B O U T CO M M I T M E N T

HONOURABLE MENTION

Karen Pruim Princess Project creates happy endings

W

hen Karen Pruim started the Princess Project five years ago, her intention wasn’t just to provide gowns, shoes and jewelry for under-privileged high school graduates, it was to give them the self-esteem and confidence that comes with having what their peers have.

For many, having fancy clothes for their graduation ceremonies is a dream come true.

“The first year we asked the students to look in the bag and tell us if they liked the stuff – we wanted to be sure we were on track,” she says. “A lot of them picked out the toothbrush as an item that stood out to them, so we finally asked one student

why. She replied, ‘now I won’t have to share with my sister anymore’.”

In 2010, Pruim helped her first group of 70 students attend their graduation dinner and dance; the project has since grown to help 125 students each year.

“I think we take for granted so much of what we consider simple in life, like a toothbrush, or going to a dance, or a new pair of shoes, or more importantly someone simply paying attention to us,” says Pruim.

“I always say that the thing I like most when they are all ‘finished’ is the great big smiles on their faces – it makes everything worthwhile.”

10 Surrey/North Delta Leader Tuesday, June 24, 2014

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JUNE 19, 2014 T WELFTH ANNUAL COMMUNIT Y LEADER AWARDS

EMERGENCY SERVICES

TOP HONOUR

Dylan Van Rooyen Firefighter says community is all about teamwork

W

hen Surrey firefighter Dylan Van Rooyen began volunteering with the Surrey Special Olympics at the age of 14, he didn’t know that it would be a stepping stone to his career.

His passion for saving lives continued when he became a lifeguard for the YMCA, which eventually led to many charity campaigns.

“It was not long after that I saw the value and felt the reward of doing such meaningful work and giving back to the community,” says Van Rooyen.

Since becoming a firefighter, Van Rooyen now volunteers with the Surrey Fire Fighters Charitable Society, which includes sitting on the Adopt-a-Family Committee and the Charity Golf Tournament for Fire Fighters.

“In addition, I currently sit on the

organizing committee as chair for the Run, Walk and Roll supporting the Child Development Foundation, raising upwards of $50,000 annually, which all goes to help fund the amazing work the centre does to help the children,” he says. “I believe it is our duty to the community in which we live to support one another and give back by helping in whatever way possible.”

For Van Rooyen, a good community is one that works as a team – where everyone does their part to help their fellow citizens.

“I also believe it’s extremely important that everybody has the opportunity to succeed, especially our youngest residents, as they are our future and we will one day be relying on them,” he says. “We all play an important role in shaping the future of our city.”

SPONSORED BY

HONOURABLE MENTION

Co-operators

Ernie Dombrowsksi

HONOURABLE MENTION

Giving back with snacks

Scott Campbell Staff Sergeant keeps RCMP close to the community

O

ver the last few years, the RCMP’s District One in Whalley has had three different staff sergeants – each with their own approach to the job and a goal to make an impact in the community.

Staff-Sgt. Scott Campbell is no different.

Several years ago a bike patrol was established

by Concord Security to serve as extra eyes and ears on the streets.

Campbell has played an integral role in ensuring police resources are available to work with the bike patrol, saying “biking the beat” is a more personal way to interact with the community and an effective tool to combat crime.

Campbell started his service with the RCMP at a small detachment in the B.C. Interior, and it was there he learned a great deal about how a community can work together to get things done.

“Although the City of Surrey is getting larger and larger, I believe this basic model can still apply, because I know that most everyone wants to help in some way. The more the community becomes involved, the more successful we will all be.”

Campbell now manages the entire north area of Surrey, and it’s his hands-on approach to policing that continues to leave a lasting impression wherever he serves.

S

ince the beginning of his career with the Surrey Fire Service, Ernie Dombrowski has dedicated his time to the Surrey Fire Fighters Charitable Society and other extracurricular initiatives beyond his regular duties. This includes volunteering with the Surrey Fire Fighters Charitable Golf Tournament, where he has helped raise more than $90,000 in the past two years.

However, his hard work and dedication is truly reflected in the Surrey Fire Fighters Nutritional Snack Program, where he serves as one of the co-directors.

“I believe, we all believe, no child in Surrey should be hungry when they are trying to learn,” says Dombrowski.

“Many families are having a tough time out there, so the snacks we provide are

helping those families and specifically the children focus on their studies.”

The snack program supports more than 2,000 children in 100 schools, providing them with fruit juice, granola bars, sesame snaps, fruit cups, cheese and crackers, and other non-perishable grocery items.

The program’s success has been made possible due to the hundreds of hours Dombrowski and his fellow firefighters have spent on an annual basis organizing and delivering the food.

“When a young child is having a look at the fire truck with their face all lit up, I am reminded how lucky I am to be driving this big rig, and how fortunate we all are as firefighters to be having this fun interaction with the community.”

12 Surrey/North Delta Leader Tuesday, June 24, 2014

Tuesday, June 24, 2014 Surrey/North Delta Leader 13

JUNE 19, 2014 T WELFTH ANNUAL COMMUNIT Y LEADER AWARDS

COMMUNITY BUILDER

TOP HONOUR

Dr. Ryan D’Arcy A prescription for health care excellence

I

t’s not just Dr. Ryan D’Arcy’s medical skills that have made him a prominent figure in the field of health care. His vision for the future – and his work to bring it to fruition – are also impressive.

A Simon Fraser University neuroscientist, D’Arcy has some impressive titles. He is both the Surrey Memorial Hospital Foundation BC Leadership Chair in Multimodal Technology for Healthcare Innovation at SFU and the head of Health Sciences and Innovation for Surrey Memorial Hospital.

In 2012 Dr. D’Arcy joined forces with Surrey Mayor Dianne Watts to lead the city’s Innovative Boulevard – a network of health institutions, universities, companies and professionals located within 1.5 kilometers in City Centre.

This health care “cluster” aims to attract

the world’s top medical experts and researchers to Surrey.

“We describe the development of Innovation Boulevard as a freight train going at bullet train speed,” says D’Arcy.

“It is a spirited and inclusive partnership involving so many vital organizations, businesses, and people – bundling and harnessing our regional resources towards the highly focused development of a vibrant health technology cluster.”

D’Arcy believes that Surrey is emerging as a global leader in health care technology that will truly change lives.

“Surrey is B.C.’s next big opportunity.

Trying to imagine the possible heights that can be reached and the countless people that can be helped is what I love,” he says.

“We are changing the world for the better every day.”

SPONSORED BY

Fraser Downs Racetrack & Casino

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T H E B U I L D I N G B LO C K S O F O U R CO M M U N I T Y - I T ’ S A L L A B O U T CO M M I T M E N T

rowing up in a household of business-driven parents, Alina Huang learned at a young age the importance of being involved and striving for the best.

Now CEO and chair of the non-profit organization Enterprize Vancouver, Huang understands that a good business is one that practices ethics and embraces innovation – values that she hopes to teach to others.

“I initially created Enterprize Vancouver for the purpose of inspiring youth and connecting them with the business community,” says Huang. “This year Enterprize Vancouver will focus on business, environmental sustainability and international relations for youth.”

By participating in workshops that

HONOURABLE MENTION

HONOURABLE MENTION

Alina Huang

Jethro Kambere

For Surrey youth, it’s more than just business as usual

YMCA advisor helps youth tap into their potential

involve guest speakers, case study competitions and public speaking, youth are able to explore their areas of interest, learn the importance of teamwork and develop crucial skills for success.

Looking to the future, Huang plans to attend university at the Richard Ivey School of Business where she will further her passion for business.

“I am helping to make Surrey a better place by being a youth leader and empowering others to create positive change,” she says. “I want to have a legacy in society as an entrepreneur and community builder.”

Huang also serves as President of Semiahmoo Secondary’s Business Club and was a recipient of the “Surrey’s Top 25 Under 25.”

A

s an advisor with the Youth Leadership Development Program at the Tong Louie Family YMCA, Jethro Kambere is in an excellent position to connect with youth and build lasting relationships.

For years the program has been a positive outlet for youth to interact and work on different character-building activities.

Under Kambere’s leadership, the program has grown significantly in its effort to reach as many young people as possible. This year, the program expanded to three new sites: Clayton Heights Secondary, the Guildford Recreation Centre and Central City Library in partnership with SFU. “When we encourage youth to learn about

leadership, we find that youth learn about themselves and how to be better people,” says Kambere. “It’s once they find out who they truly are and their potential that they begin to learn what type of a leader they can be and how to impact other people.”

His interactive programs, including conferences and camps, give youth the tools, confidence and motivation to better the community and even change the world.

His guidance in their lives now is helping to shape future leaders.

“Be who you are, and be that person to the fullest,” advises Kambere. “Everyone was blessed with unique skills. It is our job to pass on our blessings to someone who could use them.”

14 Surrey/North Delta Leader Tuesday, June 24, 2014

2014 AWARD RECIPIENTS

T WELFTH ANNUAL COMMUNIT Y LEADER AWARDS

ABOVE AND BEYOND

ENVIRONMENTAL LEADER

Sponsored by McDonald’s

Sponsored by Save-on-foods/Pricesmart

L to R: Jim Mihaly - the Surrey Leader, Shannon Thompson, Lucas Kersen - McDonald’s, Jonquil Hallgate - Top Honour, Ramen Saggu and Michael Wilson - Honourable Mention.

L to R: Lu Jia (Lucia) Lin - Top Honour, Shakti Ramkumar - Honourable Mention. Unable to attend Awards presentation.

SERVICE ORGANIZATION VOLUNTEER

EMERGENCY SERVICES

Sponsored by Central City

Sponsored by Co-operators

L to R: Jim Mihaly - the Surrey Leader, Betty Sing - Top Honour, Vivian Li - Central City.

L to R: Faisal Durrani - Co-operators, Dylan Van Rooyen - Top Honour, Ernie Dombrowski - Honourable Mention, Susan Caley and Josh Waltman (accepting the Honourable Mention Award for Scott Campbell).

Tuesday, June 24, 2014 Surrey/North Delta Leader 15

TWELFTH ANNUAL COMMUNITY LEADER AWARDS

2014 AWARD RECIPIENTS COMMUNITY BUILDER Sponsored by Fraser Downs Racetrack & Casino

HAMILTON DUNCAN ARMSTRONG + STEWART BUSINESS + LITIGATION LAWYERS TRADEMARK AGENTS

Congratulations to all Community Leader Award nominees.

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L to R: Chuck Keeling - Fraser Downs Racetrack & Casino, Jethro Kambere - Honourable Mention, Dr. Ryan D’Arcy - Top Honour, and Alina Huang - Honourable Mention.

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16 Surrey/North Delta Leader Tuesday, June 24, 2014

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JUNE 19, 2014 T WELFTH ANNUAL COMMUNIT Y LEADER AWARDS

YOUTH VOLUNTEER

TOP HONOUR

Raaj Chatterjee ‘Individually we are one drop, together we are a wave’

W

hile attending a 10-day sustainability camp nearly two years ago, everything changed for Surrey student Raaj Chatterjee.

The camp’s philosophy focused on educating the community about environmental, economic, and social sustainability, and it inspired Chatterjee to step out of his comfort zone.

“Due to a fear of being ‘different’, I had never thought to involve my school community in any of my projects,” he says. “Through the support of the friends that I made at the camp, I lost that fear completely.”

As president of Semiahmoo Secondary’s environmental club, he implemented a composting system and community garden.

Chatterjee and his school friends also installed a water refill station and organized a regional environmental summit.

As his leadership skills grew, Chatterjee was chosen to co-chair the Surrey Youth Sustainability Network, which connects students to grants, mentors and community groups – with a focus on environmental stewardship. Forty

students representing eight Surrey high schools attend regular monthly meetings.

Chatterjee is also a well-rounded musician, playing trumpet, guitar, piano and bass, and performs at the White Rock Social Justice Film Festival.

And he and his family founded a bi-weekly homemade food distribution service for the homeless in North Surrey, bringing hot food to those in need twice a month.

Chatterjee plans to pursue studies in mechatronic systems engineering at Simon Fraser University and contribute to Canada’s efforts at developing a green economy. He also hopes to work and volunteer abroad through the UN and Engineers Without Borders, and return to Southern Asia to help teach struggling villages how to produce their own electricity and employ sustainable agriculture.

“Through all my experiences I have learned that while individually we are one drop, together we are a wave. I will share this idea with whomever I meet, wherever I go.”

T H E B U I L D I N G B LO C K S O F O U R CO M M U N I T Y - I T ’ S A L L A B O U T CO M M I T M E N T

SPONSORED BY

HONOURABLE MENTION

Canadian Tire

Chadni Khondoker and Simran Purewal Teen program has positive message for girls: We are all sisters

Community Leader Awards

2014

T

he Sisterhood is a five-week youth mentorship program at M.B. Sanford Elementary that fosters self-esteem in Grade 7 girls.

Developed by teens Chadni Khondoker and Simran Purewal of Frank Hurt Secondary, the program pairs each younger student with a Big Sister to focus on team building, body image, health and fitness, bullying and the transition to high school through fun activities.

“The activities encourage all the girls to take risks, express their opinions, and reflect on their own feelings, which ultimately contributes to the development of confidence,” says Khondoker. “Sisterhood helped me identify my passion, but most importantly it helped me allow young girls to realize their self worth, their potential and strength.”

Khondoker enlisted the help of her best friend and co-founder Simran Purewal to develop and introduce the program.

“The thought of losing the comfort of elementary school struck a fear into me like no other,” says Purewal. “If young girls can walk through the halls of high school confidently and courageously, then I have made the impact I had set out to make.”

Their program ultimately aims to empower girls to feel happy in their own skin.

“Being true to yourself is what matters the most,” says Purewal. “And if at times you do not believe in yourself just remember that as your Sister, I believe in you,” adds Khondoker. “We are all sisters.”

18 Surrey/North Delta Leader Tuesday, June 24, 2014

ENGAGING STUDENTS. ENGAGING RESEARCH. ENGAGING COMMUNITIES.

THE FUTURE LEARNS HERE Simon Fraser University is pleased to recognize, honour and congratulate Surrey’s outstanding teachers for their student-centred approach to learning and for the excellence they have demonstrated in educational leadership and community engagement.

W W W . S F U . C A / S U R R E Y / W E LCO M E

Tuesday, June 24, 2014 Surrey/North Delta Leader 19

JUNE 19, 2014 T WELFTH ANNUAL COMMUNIT Y LEADER AWARDS

TEACHER

TOP HONOUR

Yvonne Price Teacher offers a chance for growth in the classroom and beyond

W

hile a degree in English and a diploma in education from McGill University helped create the backbone of Yvonne Price’s career, it’s the students she teaches who are the heart and soul of what she does.

Price began working at the Cloverdale Learning Centre 25 years ago, and continues to dedicate her talent and skills to help at-risk youth with their educational needs.

“Teaching means encouraging learning, nurturing self-confidence, developing capacity, and hopefully promoting a positive attitude about the possibilities in life,” says Price. “I have a positive outlook on life that spurs me on to want to discover, learn and understand more about our world and the people in it.”

In 2011, Price was honoured with the Merron Chorny Award for her

SPONSORED BY

Simon Fraser University

outstanding contribution to the teaching of English.

But it was not just her work in the classroom that earned her such an accolade; it was the chance for students to learn outdoors as well. Weekend camping, hikes, snowshoeing, live theatre, media productions, and music writing lessons are just some of the adventures and opportunities she has offered her students.

“The biggest reward in teaching for me is to hear from former students who are doing well in their lives – whatever form that may take,” she says. “It is a wonderful feeling to hear that students remember their time working with me with fondness and that I may have introduced them to the pleasures of reading or writing or even hiking, or encouraged them to believe in their own abilities.”

T H E B U I L D I N G B LO C K S O F O U R CO M M U N I T Y - I T ’ S A L L A B O U T CO M M I T M E N T

HONOURABLE MENTION

Stefan Stipp A profession with endless possibilities Community Leader Awards

2014

G

rade 9 English, Social Studies and psychology teacher Stefan Stipp has one message he hopes students remember as they progress with their lives: “Figure out who you are, what you’re passionate about and good at, and then find a way to do that for the rest of your life in a way that makes the world a better place.

“And don’t shy away from hard work on that journey.”

That message is one of the many reasons why he was chosen – along with 42 teachers nationwide – to receive the Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence.

“The heart of teaching is caring about kids and working to improve their life

chances, and that starts with building genuine relationships of care and trust and then figuring out the best ways to help them succeed, “ Stipp says.

He hopes the future brings an education system that allows teachers to make professional judgments about how to best engage kids in the classroom and help them live extraordinary lives and become better citizens.

“I want us to graduate kids with a real passion for learning and the grit and self-discipline to achieve their goals. A new curriculum is a step in the right direction,” says Stipp. “The possibilities are endless which is one of the great things about teaching.”

20 Surrey/North Delta Leader Tuesday, June 24, 2014

ll a o t s n io t la u t a r g Con r e d a e L y it n u m m 2014 Co Award nominees!

The YMCA is pleased to sponsor the coach category for the 2014 Community Leader Awards. Kids need friends, teachers, counsellors and coaches that believe in them so they can grow up strong and transform our world. At the YMCA, we believe it’s up to all of us to positively impact today’s youth and we support organizations and individuals who are helping young people reach their full potential.

After all, our kids are counting on us.

To find out more about YMCA programs for children and families, visit: Tong Louie Family YMCA 14988 57th Avenue, Surrey T: 604.575.9622 E: tonglouie@vanymca.org

YMCA of Greater Vancouver Tong Louie Family YMCA

Tuesday, June 24, 2014 Surrey/North Delta Leader 21

JUNE 19, 2014 T WELFTH ANNUAL COMMUNIT Y LEADER AWARDS

COACH

TOP HONOUR

Dennis Quigley Coach works hard and plays harder

A

s a self-proclaimed “gym rat” in his own high school days, Lord Tweedsmuir Secondary school PE instructor Dennis Quigley quickly realized what he wanted to become when he grew up: an athlete.

“Football, rugby, ice hockey, basketball and lacrosse occupied my time right through graduation,” recalls Quigley. “I went on to UBC where I played Varsity rugby with an excellent group of athletes, and our 1970 Thunderbird rugby team was inducted into the UBC Sports Hall of Fame.”

After graduating from UBC he started teaching – a career that would span 40 years until his retirement in 2013.

“During my years at Cloverdale Junior and my career at Lord Tweedsmuir, I focused on coaching two sports that I really enjoyed: rugby and wrestling.”

SPONSORED BY

Tong Louie Family YMCA

Outside of the school setting, he was an assistant coach with the Coquitlam Adanacs Senior Lacrosse team and highly involved with the BC Lacrosse Coaches Association as chair of senior coaches. He also played senior men’s lacrosse with the Vancouver Burrards Lacrosse Club, winning the Canadian Championship in 1975.

Although coach Quigley is officially retired, he recently brought a rugby team to England for a two-week tour and then coached the wrestling team – even taking one of the wrestlers to Prince George to help him win a gold medal.

“The students in Cloverdale have enriched my life so much and I never really felt that there is any other occupation that could afford me so much enjoyment and gratification,” Quigley says.

T H E B U I L D I N G B LO C K S O F O U R CO M M U N I T Y - I T ’ S A L L A B O U T CO M M I T M E N T

HONOURABLE MENTION

Harold Morioka Track and field coach proves he can go the distance Community Leader Awards

2014

C

oach Harold Morioka has whipped track and field athletes of all ages into shape since he began his career in 1999.

A running legend himself, Morioka has broken world records, was named B.C.’s Athletics Masters Athlete of the Year 15 times, and was inducted into the Canadian Masters’ Athletics Hall of Fame in 2011.

“I felt very honoured to be recognized by my peers and athletic association,” says Morioka. “I never thought that I could ever run the time that I achieved as a Master (40+) sprinter.”

As a track and field coordinator for the BC Senior Summer Games, he brings his expertise to the field to train his own athletes, ages 36 to 95, in the

Greyhounds Masters Track and Field Club. This year his club began offering a Fab-55 Program for women 55 years or older who want to work towards competing in the upcoming senior games in Langley.

“A few of our Greyhounds’ members have been very successful internationally (world champions and world records),” he says. “But the most important thing is the positive attitude of all our members with their individual successes and improvements.”

Known for being the first one to arrive at the stadium and the last one to leave, Morioka is recognized for both his dedication to coaching, and as an inspirational Canadian athlete who continues to push the limits.

22 Surrey/North Delta Leader Tuesday, June 24, 2014

Proud Sponsor

of the 2014

Community Volunteer Award Looking forward to a Stronger Future!

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JUNE 19, 2014 T WELFTH ANNUAL COMMUNIT Y LEADER AWARDS

VOLUNTEER

I

Tuesday, June 24, 2014 Surrey/North Delta Leader 23

TOP HONOUR

Monica Nelson A light in the darkness

A

lack of sight hasn’t deprived volunteer Monica Nelson of a vision for her future. Despite gradually losing her sight since the age of 20, she has returned to school, studied braille and learned to use computer programs to communicate information.

She also volunteers for numerous community outreach programs, including the Canadian National Institute for the Blind, where she conducts peer counselling phone calls to people struggling with vision loss.

“It gives me joy to give back to my community and to help those who are struggling, and to encourage those who are facing the same struggles that I had when I first lost my sight,” says Nelson.

Along with her guide dog Quinn, Nelson makes her way around the

SPONSORED BY

Canadian Tire

n 2005, Karen Ann Summers began working towards a masters degree in education with a focus on leadership. She says she learned everyone could influence positive change by leading in small ways.

But when she began volunteering, she didn’t imagine it would give her such a sense of purpose.

“I truly believe that as I have passed through various stages of my life, volunteering has taught me to value who I am as a person and to be proud of my accomplishments.”

In 1991, Summers was accepted into the Surrey RCMP’s Auxiliary Constable Program.

With a goal to donate more than 300 volunteer hours each year,

community, from the Zion Lutheran Church to the Surrey Food Bank, offering her services with a smile.

“I suppose that I’d like to be known as an encouraging person.

We all have our struggles in life, and sometimes a smile and a listening ear can make a difference in a person’s day,” says Nelson. “I no longer question why I lost my sight, although it was a struggle in the early days. My life has purpose and direction, although different than I would have anticipated. My faith, and the encouragement of family and friends held me up and lifted me over the rough spots.”

Although Nelson may see the world around her in shadows, she is recognized as someone who shines a light on the community and all those around her with her care and kindness.

HONOURABLE MENTION

Karen Ann Summers

HONOURABLE MENTION

6,500 volunteer hours – and counting Summers could be seen at events such as the Cloverdale Rodeo, Surrey Vaisakhi Parade, Canada Day, Remembrance Day and many others. She far surpassed her goal, and since 1992 has volunteered more than 6,500 hours.

Now a retired teacher, Summers continues to volunteer her time in classrooms and police departments.

“Volunteering defines my character and allows me to see the world through a multitude of experiences,” she says.

“Volunteering allows me to interact with many people, to listen to their stories and discover all of the interesting professions they are a part of. I truly get to see how the world works.”

Red Shirts Volunteer group has Surrey seeing red

W

hen the City of Surrey needs volunteers, it’s the Red Shirts to the rescue.

Made up of people in drug and alcohol recovery at the Phoenix Centre in Surrey, the Red Shirts contribute countless volunteer hours to the community.

Executive Director of the Phoenix Drug and Alcohol Recovery and Education Society, Michael Wilson, started the program because he believed that regardless of an individual’s situation, they have a talent or gift that can help others.

“Never underestimate the power of participating in your community” says Wilson. “It gives me a feeling of pride when we are volunteering that we as citizens have helped to create positive experiences in public spaces for citizens in our community.”

It wasn’t long after the Red Shirts program began that its positive reputation spread and volunteers were taking on plenty of projects around the city.

From festivals such as Surrey Fest, Quattro Street Fair, and Movies Under the Stars, to the Surrey International Music Marathon, to the Surrey Christmas Bureau, member of the Red Shirts take pride in contributing.

“The Red Shirt volunteers are a great example of how to enact citizenship,” says Wilson.

“They are an enthusiastic group with a can-do attitude who are ready to roll up their sleeves to help in their city. They recognize that it is up to citizens to determine the kind of city they want to build and live in.”

24 Surrey/North Delta Leader Tuesday, June 24, 2014

Courage TO CHANGE

WelcomeHome is much more than a rehab center. We not only eliminate the symptoms of the addiction but resolve the underlying issues that drove the person to drugs and alcohol in the first place. Our students also adopt a healthy new life-style and gain the tools needed to stay sober.

To achieve all of this is an intense and lengthy process.

Attempting to accomplish it in only a few months will likely result in a relapse.

At WelcomeHome our students completely overcome their addiction and develop mentally, physically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually, until they are ready to live successfully - for life!

MICHEAL’S STORY “I couldn’t make enough money to support my drug habit, so I started making money the “easy way” dealing and stealing. I lost my job, my house, and my family. I ended up in jail. I felt there was nothing left to live for. There was only more time in jail and there were so called “programs”. Nothing helped. Living

was hell. I wanted to die.

WelcomeHome stopped the downward spiral. Getting back was not easy, in fact it was a struggle, but I made it. I have two children that have their dad back. I have so much to look forward to. WelcomeHome has given me my life back”.

–Micheal B.

For more testimonials, please visit www.whrecovery.org/testimonials

Stop the pain - join us! +A life changing residential program for young men and women aged 19 to 34 +”Rated one of the most effective addiction treatment centers in North America” because the program is funded by a private founation, you only pay the intake fee. The program is free!

Tuesday, June 24, 2014 Surrey/North Delta Leader 25

JUNE 19, 2014 T WELFTH ANNUAL COMMUNIT Y LEADER AWARDS

COURAGE

TOP HONOUR

Sam Sihalathavong Quick thinking saves grandmother’s life

I

t was the middle of the afternoon and Sam Sihalathavong was cutting his grass when he saw smoke billowing from inside a neighbour’s house.

“I dropped everything and ran over,” the 49-year-old recalls.

When he reached the home, he asked a man who had just escaped if there was anyone else inside.

“He couldn’t speak because of all the smoke he had inhaled, so instead he just pointed upwards,” says Sihalathavong.

A 75-year-old woman was trapped on the balcony of the two-storey home, and may not be alive today if it weren’t for what Sihalathavong did next.

“Myself and another man from a local construction site put a ladder up against

SPONSORED BY

Welcome Home Society

the balcony railing and I climbed up,” he says. “The fire was coming out right behind her so I grabbed her to help her get down.”

While trying to descend, the woman slipped and tangled her leg in the ladder, forcing her to hang upside-down. Sihalathavong quickly instructed the other helpers to bring the ladder down with the woman on it.

“There were a lot of people involved that day who are heroes,” he says. “It’s nice to help out and save somebody in need.

A man and child who escaped from the home were taken to hospital with minor injuries, and the woman suffered second-degree burns to her left side and torso. She has recently moved into a new home and Sihalathavong plans to visit.

T H E B U I L D I N G B LO C K S O F O U R CO M M U N I T Y - I T ’ S A L L A B O U T CO M M I T M E N T

HONOURABLE MENTION

Serena Bonneville Blogging helps teen fight leukemia

W Community Leader Awards

2014

hen Serena Bonneville began blogging about her battle with leukemia, she wanted to welcome readers into her world - offering hope to some, and helping others understand how cancer works and how it takes over the body. She decided to do this by using zombies as a reference.

“The ‘Walkers’ as they are referred to in the HBO series The Walking Dead are perceived as having no sense of selfawareness. They viciously kill and/or spread their ‘disease’ to healthy humans feeling no regret or remorse,” explains Bonneville.

“Similarly, when the life-threatening cancer-cells took over my body, they did so with no sense of awareness; no knowledge of the life that they had chosen to consume. However, as the purpose of my blog is to breed optimism, I also chose this analogy to let my readers know that like mindless zombies, leukemia can be fought to the death, until all that remains is the courageous survivor who lasted through the battle.”

Her blog became a page of international inspiration for people fighting similar battles.

“It has also helped me, personally, in a way I never thought writing could,” she says. “Because of my diagnosis, I have had to sacrifice so many of my passions that were previously a part of my life: soccer, acting, track, public speaking. Giving up the lead in the school play was one of the most crushing sacrifices I’ve made this year, yet somehow, blogging has cushioned that fall.”

The support and love from family, friends and the community, whether it has been through fundraising or by sending her a message of love, is what has given her the strength to stay so positive.

“I’ve been able to fight through my battles knowing I’m not alone,” says Bonneville. “That is something that I am constantly grateful for, and is what gives me faith, even when it seems that all hope is lost.”

Bonneville blogs at breedingoptimisim. blogspot.ca

26 Surrey/North Delta Leader Tuesday, June 24, 2014

Acorn Oak Tree

Good leadership comes from the ability to see potential.

As the sponsor of this year’s Leader of the Year award, we would like to thank all of the 2014 nominees for their vision and hard work. Your efforts are helping to unlock the potential that lies within our community.

You have made Surrey and North Delta a richer place to live. We are proud to be your neighbour.

1.888.963.2000 | www.ComSavings.com

Tuesday, June 24, 2014 Surrey/North Delta Leader 27

JUNE 19, 2014 T WELFTH ANNUAL COMMUNIT Y LEADER AWARDS

LEADER OF THE YEAR

Mark Boomhower Respect, kindness and challenging people to excel

I

SPONSORED BY

Community Savings

Community Leader Awards

When it comes to leadership, longtime coach Mark Boomhower brings his ‘A’ game

2014

t is believed that one of the most effective ways to develop young high school athletes is to commit to a five-year plan, and for a coach to oversee the same group from Grades 8 through 12.

Coach Mark Boomhower has committed himself to that strategy.

Since beginning his career in the 1960s, he has connected with youth over six decades and coached at least one sport every year in both community and school programs.

Although he has taught high school English for nearly 36 years, Boomhower’s coaching career began well before his time in the classroom.

From bowling to basketball, he has overseen an impressive range of sports, for both male and female, from beginner to elite.

From 1974 to 1976 he coached Trinity Western University’s women’s basketball team and men’s soccer team. Over the next few years he went on to coach volleyball, basketball, track and field, and crosscountry running between Frank Hurt Secondary and Enver Creek Secondary. He has also coached both women’s and men’s softball in Whalley, Newton and Vancouver.

With a coaching philosophy that focuses on the individual athlete and their abilities, Boomhower’s priorities are simple: Provide the opportunity to play and then get the most out of each player’s potential.

“I like to see all players develop to the best of their ability. At times I’m prepared to sacrifice a win if it’s for the betterment of a player,” says Boomhower. “I indicate that if they can walk off the field or court and honestly say they have done their best, then that’s all that can be asked.

I figure if you could run faster if a pit bull was chasing you then you can step it up a little. I encourage players to be fearless and not worry about mistakes.”

Boomhower continues to volunteer on team trips throughout the province, and in 2011, organized and coached a high school basketball team that travelled to Hawaii. Other trips include taking basketball, baseball and bowling teams to Los Angeles and

throughout the Pacific Northwest – a commitment he honours completely on his own time.

“As a coach I guess I want to be remembered as someone who worked hard to do his best and had the best interest of the player and the sport at heart,” says Boomhower. “To be remembered as respectful and as someone who fostered joy in playing the game.”

During his many years of service, coach Boomhower came in contact with an array of athletes, all of whom impacted him in some way.

“I’ve learned that players, male or female, are not that different; sensitivity of males should be respected and underestimating females should be avoided.”

He says that harshness should also be shunned, and therefore implements a more nurturing coaching style to suit each athlete’s tolerance.

He looks at the player, and not just at the game.

Boomhower describes a leader as someone who demonstrates a love of what they do, who is kind, considerate and respectful of those around them, and who challenges people to excel.

Throughout his career Boomhower has demonstrated the leadership qualities he describes by being aware of his young athletes, developing their abilities and staying motivated with each passing decade to do what’s best – regardless of a win or loss.

For many of the athletes under his watch, it is their first time being part of a team, and that sense of belonging has a profound impact on their lives.

“I think sports allow players to test themselves and learn more about themselves. They learn to take some hard knocks and realize that they are tough enough to handle it,” says Boomhower. “Sports are an opportunity to do something enjoyable and an opportunity to stay healthy. It is also an opportunity to face a challenge and recognize that all outcomes are not favourable.”

Be it on a court, diamond, lane or field, Boomhower has spent decades guiding young people and teaching them lessons that last a lifetime.

T H E B U I L D I N G B LO C K S O F O U R CO M M U N I T Y - I T ’ S A L L A B O U T CO M M I T M E N T

28 Surrey/North Delta Leader Tuesday, June 24, 2014

2014 AWARD RECIPIENTS TEACHER Sponsored by SFU

TWELFTH ANNUAL COMMUNITY LEADER AWARDS

Thanks!

The Leader would like to thank our many community partners and sponsors who made this award winning annual event possible.

AWARD SPONSORS

L to R: Stefan Stipp - Honourable Mention, Yvonne Price - Top Honour, and Joanne Curry - SFU.

COACH Sponsored by YMCA

L to R: Jim Mihaly - The Leader, Dennis Quigley - Top Honour, and David Woollven - YMCA.

VOLUNTEER Sponsored by Canadian Tire

COMMUNITY JUDGES L to R: Kevin Gray - Canadian Tire, Red Shirts Phoenix Society members, with Karen Summer (middle) - Honourable Mention, and Monica Nelson - Top Honour.

COURAGE

Sponsored by Welcome Home Society

SURREY PUBLIC LIBRARY

L to R: Gabrielle Steed - Welcome Home Society, Serena Bonneville - Honourable Mention, and Sam Sihalathavong - Top Honour.

LEADER OF THE YEAR

Sponsored by Community Savings

MANY THANKS TO OUR 2014 JUDGES Jim Mihaly, The Surrey Leader Paula Carlson, The Surrey Leader Sheila Reynolds, The Surrey Leader Judy Krawchuk, The Centre For Child Development Kevin DeBoice, Surrey School District David Woollven, YMCA Melanie Houlden , Surrey Public Library L to R: Mark Boomhower - Leader of the Year with Doug Eveneshen - Community Savings.

Marilyn Hermann, Surrey Food Bank Doug Sabourin, Deltassist Jane Adams, Fraser Health Lloyd Lees, Surrey Fire Fighters Brock Lazaruk, Fraser Downs Racetrack & Casino Insp. Garry Begg, Surrey RCMP Steve Dooley, SFU