Home / Education / Hamilton's Black Youth Shine at 30th Holland Awards
Hamilton's Black Youth Shine at 30th Holland Awards
18 Feb
Summary
- The John C. Holland Awards celebrated 30 years of honoring Black community excellence.
- A record number of awards, bursaries, and scholarships were presented.
- Young winners Aya Adam and Daunte Hillen shared inspiring stories of community involvement.
The 30th anniversary of the John C. Holland Awards saw a record number of accolades presented to celebrate excellence within Hamilton's Black community. Held at Liuna Station, the ceremony recognized numerous individuals for their contributions and potential.
Aya Adam, a Grade 12 student, received a Sankofa Pearl bursary and scholarship. Adam, who moved from Sudan in 2017, is passionate about community service, volunteering for the Canadian Cancer Society and aiming to become a perfusionist.
Daunte Hillen, also a Grade 12 student, earned a Sankofa Pearl bursary and scholarship for his work as Indigenous student trustee and chair of the Indigenous Student Trustees Council. He emphasized the importance of recognizing young Indigenous leaders.
Vincent Kuber was honored with the Community Service Award for founding the Steel Town Athletic Club (STAC). STAC provides low-cost sports opportunities and mentorship for racialized youth, aiming to offer the support Kuber wished he had.
Terri Bedminster, Chair of the John C. Holland Awards, expressed optimism for the future of Black youth in Hamilton, emphasizing the crucial role of investment in their health, wellness, and education.




