Summerlanders have long proclaimed their love for the youth of this community.
Facilities such as the youth centre, organizations such as the Summerland Asset Development Initiative and other youth groups, minor sports leagues, student bursaries and other initiatives are all tributes to this community’s commitment to young people.
For this reason, it is puzzling that the Summerland Chamber of Commerce has not, as of press time, received any nominations for its youth award.
The Excellence in Community Youth Leadership Award is a new award for this year. It will be presented at the 80th annual Summerland Business and Community Excellence Awards.
The award is sponsored by NeighbourLink Summerland and is given to a senior secondary school student for outstanding dedication to the community.
It should not be too difficult to find a student who fits the award criteria.
Each year there are high school students who take initiatives to improve the community in many ways. Some are involved in leadership activities through the high school. Others are taking active roles in various community organizations or are organizing special initiatives.
Some, while in high school, are already demonstrating dedication and determination — and in the future, they will be among the decision makers who will lead and guide our community.
But at present, no names have been submitted.
If this community believes in helping its youth, then it is equally important that we recognize those young people who are becoming leaders.
The new award is a way for the community to pay tribute to those who go above and beyond what is expected.
It is up to us to seek out and recognize those who are demonstrating qualities of leadership.