Each year, the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board Student Recognition Awards celebrate excellence in student leadership. Students are chosen by their principals and/or vice-principals for their demonstration of initiative, supported by the will to succeed, the dedication to finish what they started, and the commitment to achieve their personal best. Congratulations to this year’s recipient from Canterbury High School, Reweena Debebe!
Reweena enrolled at Canterbury after her family arrived in Canada from Qatar. Though the sudden transition to a new country and new school was understandably not easy, Reweena’s focus, determination, and positive attitude have helped her embrace and succeed in many opportunities. Her strong work ethic has helped her become more involved at Canterbury and in her community: Reweena has been a member of the school’s Senior Girls’ basketball and volleyball teams and is Co-Head of the Black Students and Allies’ Group. There, she has played an integral part in the creation of the school’s virtual Black History Month assembly and the implementation of Canterbury's Culture Week. As part of the LINK Leadership program, she has been hugely supportive to grade 9 students as they make the transition to high school. She is also a valued member of the Orkidstra program, which helps children in underserved Ottawa communities learn to play instruments and sing. Finally, Reweena is a member of the OCDSB’s Black Youth Forum planning committee, where she has helped prepare for the annual Black Youth Forum. Reweena is not afraid to take on new challenges and adventures: she sets goals and works hard, often collaborating with others to achieve them. She is a delight to work with and a good friend and role model to those around her!
Visit the OCDSB website to learn more about the awards and all of the outstanding recipients!