Finalists have been announced for Maple Ridge Community Foundation’s Citizen of the Year Awards.
The annual awards recognize outstanding individuals who demonstrate exceptional service, leadership, and dedication to the Maple Ridge community.
This year the finalists represent a diverse and inspiring group of individuals whose contributions have made a meaningful and lasting impact.
The Foundation is honoured to celebrate their achievements and commitment to strengthening our community, said Amy Pridday, the foundation’s marketing and design assistant.
Youth Achievement for youth 18 years and younger, the finalists are: Brooklyn Nicholson; Regan Hamilton; and Chelsea Jian.
Teesha Sharma Memorial Award for individuals under the age of 40, the finalists are: Niklas Koehn; and Ellie Ollenberger.
And Lifetime Achievement finalists are: Angie Rowell; Sandra Taylor; and Adrienne Dale.
From now until the awards event, the Maple Ridge Community Foundation will be posting short videos and biographies about each finalist.
On Tuesday, April 7, they posted their first video of Teesha Sharma Memorial Award finalist, Niklas Koehn.
Koehn, said the online post, is a “powerful example of leadership, creativity, and heart in action.”
He has been involved in theatre, taking on roles onstage and behind the scenes.
Koehn produced, directed, and starred in “The Lightning Thief – The Percy Jackson Musical” as his grad capstone project, bringing together more than 20 students from across the district.
Beyond the arts, said the post, Koehn is committed to giving back to the community. He has participated in local Repair Cafes, and is now in an assistant manager role, and he has also volunteered at major community events like Celebrate Earth Day and the Maple Ridge Christmas Festival.
“Whether mentoring peers, managing teams, or stepping into new creative challenges, Niklas leads with passion and purpose, making a lasting impact on those around him,” the post finished.
Pridday said the foundation continues to be inspired by the calibre of individuals in the community.
“Each of this year’s finalists has made a meaningful difference in their own way, and we’re proud to recognize their contributions,” she added.
Since 1991, the foundation has been celebrating outstanding people in the community, who make the city stronger, kinder, and more connected.
Originally there was only one award given to one exceptional person each year. But, in 2018 the awards were expanded to recognize three individuals annually.
The awards highlight contributions to the community through the arts, culture, athletics, social services, and more.
Winners will be announced at the Citizen of the Year Awards on Saturday, April 25, at the foundation’s 50 Golden Groove Gala.
It will be taking place at Meadow Gardens Gold Club, 19675 Meadow Gardens Way, Pitt Meadows.
Tickets are available at www.mrcf.ca/coy.