July 1    2025     12:00 – 5:00 pm     Canada Day – at Esplanade Park
July 1    2025     7:00 – 10:00 pm     Canada Day at Kinsmen Park
July 3    2025     7:00 – 9:00 pm      Summer Concerts at the Waterfront
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Civic Awards Winners

SPECIAL CITATION AWARD

 Justin Barnes competed at the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics and along with skipper will Jones secured the 17th position in the skiff 49er men’s sailing category.

The pair also clinched first place at the sale Canada 2024 senior 49er and 49er FX championships.

Justin has been competing with will in the 49er, A2 handed skiff, since fall 2022, when he returned to competitive sailing after a more than two year hiatus.

The pair first teamed up for the sailing World Championships test event in The Hague, Netherlands in October 2022 and continued to compete together.

In early 2023, they placed ninth at the US open sailing series in Miami, followed by a fourth place finish at the US open sailing series in Clearwater. They qualified for the Santiago 2023 Pan Am games, where they secured A bronze medal and I pulled a spot for Canada in the 49er for the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics.

Justin and will earn the Olympic spot by topping the Canadian standings after 2 the selection regard us. They were also the top Canadian 49er crew at both the 20/20/23 sailing world champions and the 2020 four 49er and 49er FX World Championships.
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Justin Lui competed for Canada at the federation Internationale de volleyball men’s volleyball nations league during the 2022-2023 and 2024 seasons.

He played a key role in helping the Canadian men’s national in indoor volleyball team secure 10th place at the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics.

Justin played at Stanford University in California from 2018 to 2023 before signing with the finished professional volleyball club vanta ducks for the 2023 124 season.

Last year, he signed with the Czech club VK dukla liberac and continues to showcase his talent on the international stage.
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Jayde Riviere is a professional soccer player who plays as a right back for Manchester United in the women’s Super League and the Canada women’s national soccer team.

She played a pivotal role in helping Team Canada qualify for the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics but unfortunately sustained an ankle injury during a warm up game that prevented her from participating in the competition.

Her career includes winning a gold medal with Canada at the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics, where she was the second youngest member of the team. She played full time in Canada’s preliminary round match matches against Chile and Great Britain and contributed as a substitute in the quarterfinal and final matches.

In recognition of all of Jayde’s achievements, in June 2024, the city of Pickering renamed the kinsman turf field after the soccer player and the Olympic gold medalist, Jayde Riviere field.

Courtney Scott
In 2018, Courtney helped the K 4500 meters crew reached the a final at both World Cup stops and the ICF World Championships. She also achieved 3 podium finishes at the Pan American championships Parma winning gold in the K2 and K 4500 meters races and silver in the K 4100 meter.

At the 2019 World Championships, Courtney played a key role in securing canada’s Olympic spot in the K 4500 meters with a 12th place finish. Courtney competed in women’s kayak double s 500 meters and women’s kayak 405 hundred meters at the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics. In her first Olympic Games, she was one of the 13 canoe kayak Sprint of athletes representing Canada. She achieved a 15th place finish in women’s kayak double s and a 10th place finish in women’s kayak four.

Nyl Yakura is a badminton player who demonstrated exceptional performance last year, earning a silver medal in men’s double s at the Pan American championships and representing Canada at the Paris Summer Olympics.

Nyl previously secured back-to-back gold medals in men’s clock double s at the Pan American games, winning in L2019 with Jason hope shoe and then in Santiago 2023 with Adam Dong.

With Jason, he achieved A remarkable streak of four consecutive gold medals at the Pan American championships from 2016 to 2019. They also reached the round of 32 at the badminton world federation championships in 2019 and made their Olympic debut at the Tokyo 2020 Summer Games.

Reuniting with Adam in 2021, Nyl continue this success. In 2022 the pair won bronze at the Pan American championships and reached the round of 16 at the Commonwealth Games. They claimed gold at the Pan American championships in 2023 and competed together at the badminton world federation World Championships before their victory at Santiago’s 2023 Pan American games.
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BRAVERY/HEROISM AWARD

Brian Gonyou
What began as a routine trip to the gym one morning last October became anything but.

Brian Gonyou, a highly trained member of the Canadian military, recognized the signs of a heart attack in a fellow gym member and sprang into action — performing life saving CPR and reviving a 48 year old man twice while reading waiting for an ambulance to arrive

Ryan’s quick action is credited with saving the life of the husband and father, who had suffered a medical emergency in which your heart muscle begins to die because it isn’t getting enough blood flow. Brian maintains CPR for almost 15 minutes until emergency services arrived to take over. This isn’t the first time Brian saved the life of a local resident. 2016, he pulled a family of five out of a burning vehicle on Hwy. 401 in Courtice moments before the vehicle combusted all 5 survived.

Brian is an incredibly humble man, his nominator tells us. He simply reacts instinctively to danger when those around him may be in trouble, even if you’re a stranger. That is the essence of who he is — facta non verba, meaning deeds not words.
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LIFE ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Diana Gladwell
The lifetime achievement award is given to one or more individuals living within or outside Pickering for a significant contribution over their lifetime to the betterment of the community.

Diana Gladwell has been contributing to our community and beyond for decades, sharing her time and talents with organizations that include Girl Guides of Canada Obama scientists in school and Dunbarton Fairport United Church.

She has been volunteering with Girl Guides for more than 50 years guiding young people through a program she is very passionate about.

Not only has Diana held various volunteer positions with Girl Guides of Canada, she also pulled double duty as her nominator tells us, she called upon her experience as a now retired staff member of scientists in school to engage young girls in stem — science tech, technology, engineering and mathematics — activities.

She knows that introducing those concepts to girls as early as possible can have a great effect on their confidence and interest in stem. Diana also provided stem activities to the nominators sons Beaver scouts group. She is a lovely, kind person with an amazing sense of humor, which deserves recognition on its own, but to add into that mix a lifetime of volunteer service and you have one tremendous person, her nominator says.

Samuel Ofe-Brobe has been at the helm of a passion project to provide warm meals three times a week to Durham regions unhoused population.

He liaises with community partners and enlists volunteers. He delivers and serves the food week in and week out—all while being an active family man, a full time career professional, a PhD student and a minister, leader and executive at a local church.

In the words of his nominator: he is relied upon for more than the average person could be expected to manage and not only does he manage your duties with excellence, he goes over and above for the well-being of the unhoused individuals he’s built connections with.

He’s never too tired to deliver a meal after work and before completing an assignment; He’s never too busy to provide counsel and mentorship.

Tony Sharpe is an Olympic medalist, a coach and a mentor. He’s the founder and head coach of the speedy Academy athletes club, which was established in 2006. In that time, Tony has guided more than 30 Canadian National team members and more than 60 national collegiate Athletic Association scholarship recipients. Tonys leadership is credited with helping to develop several Canadian Olympic athletes, including seven time Olympic medalist Andre de Grasse, Mariam Abdul Rashid and Christopher Morales Williams.

The former sprinter won a bronze medal at the 1984 Los Angeles Summer Olympics and a silver medal at the 1982 Commonwealth Games. His personal athletic journey inspires all those who train under his guidance proof, proving that dedication, discipline and perseverance can lead to greatness.

His contributions extend beyond competitive sports period his vision for the speed Academy was not to only develop elite athletes but to also provide a pathway to higher education and personal growth through sport. Many of the athletes he has coached have earned full athletic scholarships to post-secondary institutions and have used their track careers as stepping stones to successful professions.

Tony is a two-time recipient of the athletics Canada development coach of the year award and in 2022 received the Caribbean and black  community impact award.
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INDIVIDUAL VOLUNTEER AWARD

John Paul de la Plante  is dedicated to making Pickering a kinder, more inclusive community; Cofounding DARS —dedicated advocacy resource support —in  May 2020 amid the pandemic.

He has been central to the organization’s mission of providing food, essentials and unity to homeless and low-income individuals. John Paul overseas all programs, trains and coordinates dozens of volunteers, and ensures every service is delivered with respect and compassion. From delivering hundreds of meals to personally shopping, cooking and serving weekly Wednesday lunches at the Pickering Central Library, his hands on commitment never wavers.

He has also created programs to address unmet needs, including a weekly shower program and Thursday night dinners at peace Lutheran Church. Under his guidance, DARS collects, sorts and distributes food donations from local organizations — a program expanding to include low-income seniors.

John Paul conducts Wellness checks in wooded areas and ravines when reports of distress arise. In the winter, his contributions are vital to the warming center where homeless individuals have a safe warm place to stay.

One of John Paul’s most transformative initiatives is the DARS farmhouse, which is now home to 7 individuals who previously lived on the streets.

This is just a sampling of the many ways John Paul restores hope, dignity and humanity.

Peter Green is an extraordinary individual and not only because he climbed Mount Kilimanjaro. Together with a small group of likeminded individuals, he was instrumental in creating the probus Pickering lakeside club six years ago. The club provides welcome fellowship, friendship and fun for seniors living in Pickering and the surrounding area. Peter served on the club’s board of directors and eventually took over the reins as president. During his 3 1/2 year tenure, the club’s membership ballooned from 60 to almost 500.

In addition to his responsibilities as president, Peter shared his passion for bridge by offering a friendly beginner mini bridge sessions for club members twice a month.

Under his leadership, the club remained active during the pandemic through zoom meetings. Peter is also credited with modernizing the club with the introduction of a website that connects members and activities.

Though Peter decided it was time to pass the torch at the end of 2024, he stayed on the board as passed as president to mentor his replacement.

This club has truly touched the lives of a vulnerable population who may have otherwise experienced isolation and loneliness during their retirement years, Peters nominator says.

Michael LeClair, for nearly two decades, has been a cornerstone of the Pickering Terry fox run, demonstrating unwavering dedication to the cause and inspiring countless participants along the way.

Since 1999, he has played a pivotal role in organizing the annual event, ensuring its continued success and impact on Cancer Research.

Michael’s contributions to the Terry fox run extend far beyond logistical coordination he has been instrumental in route set up and take down, securing sponsorships from local businesses, coordinating volunteers and promoting the event within the community.

His ability to engage and inspire those around him has helped foster a strong culture of participation and support, making the Pickering Terry fox run a flagship event in our city.

Michael dedicates his time to other meaningful causes as well, including hockey helps the homeless and pro hockey heroes. Michael’s passion for community services service is evident and everything he does his nominate ourselves.

Michael’s impact on the Pickering Terry fox run has been immeasurable, ensuring that Terry’s legacy of hope and perseverance continues to thrive in the community, he adds.

Fatima Mustafa moved to Canada in 1974 following a successful academic career in India. An author, motivational speaker and selfless volunteer for 35 years, your life is a testament to hard work, resilience and compassion. She has volunteered with such organizations as the Canadian council of Muslim women, Muslim welfare center, feed the need Durham and DARS. She has volunteered with tree planting initiatives and park clean ups, has lent a helping hand at the Pickering library and volunteered with food drives.

For more than 15 years, she has volunteered at Iftar — the fast breaking evening meal of Muslims in Ramadan — at Durham college.

She has mentored students on the importance of giving back to the community and embracing the values of compassion and service.

For several years, Fatima was an active member of a community care initiative in which she checked in with the elderly through weekly phone calls.

Our retired financial advisor, she has provided financial advice to families and especially women. In other words said by her nominator she approaches each opportunity with a heart full of kindness and a commitment to making the world a better place.

Richard Szpin
For more than three decades, Richard Szpin has embodied community service.

He is an active participant in several Pickering library programs, including seniors business workshops and creative writing classes. Richard created a website that promotes local writers and before the pandemic LED a thriving book club at the libraries George Ashe branch.

As part of his commitment to digital literacy, he teaches seniors how to use iPads in both the library and at seniors residences.

A member of the 55 plus recreation and activities committee, Richard actively promotes the group at city events and contributes articles to the committee’s newsletter.

He regularly attends City Hall meetings and cultural events and maintains a website that highlights Pickering achievements and events, national international news, technology and health news.

He also writes a monthly digital newsletter to help keep Pickering residents informed about local and regional happenings and created an electronic newspaper that shines a spotlight on prominent public figures in Pickering.
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SERVICE GROUP AWARD

This year the service group award goes to Saint Paul’s on the hill community food banks.

Saint Paul’s on the Hill Community Food Bank, under the guidance and managerial skills of Lyndsey Merrill has been in successful operation since 1990 and has grown from a cupboard at a church to a full-service food bank that serves the diverse and growing needs of Pickering and Ajax residents experiencing food insecurity.

Through the generosity of residents and community partners and supported by more than 80 dedicated volunteers, the food bank distributed some 511,000 lbs of food and supported over 35,000 people in 2024.

The food bank recently made the transition to a grocery format food bank that allows clients to select the ingredients required make their preferred meals rather than being provided with a predetermined food box. The format supports an emphasis on fresh produce and several partnerships have formed with local community gardens. With the installation last year of additional fridges and freezers, the food bank has significantly expanded the variety of items offered and established partnerships with local grocery stores. In 2024, the food bank rescued $55,000 or 50,000 lbs of food that would otherwise have ended up in landfill. Those donations provided more than 10,000 meals. Saint Paul’s holds community open houses, food drives and fundraising initiatives. It also distributes winter items such as hats, gloves and socks, as well as toys, and the last year distributed 300 seasonal food hampers.
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COMMUNITY GROUP AWARD

Allie McNerney is here this evening to collect the Community Group Award for the Charity Makers.

This organization was established in 2021 as charity makers with 10 members who knit, crochet and so hats, sweaters, blankets, it’s, socks, bags, toys and other items—helping 34 groups and organizations in Durham region, Toronto and beyond.

In 2023, the group changed its name to community crafters to better reflect what it does and what it stands for. It has joined forces with the makers and artisans of the Pickering library. In 2021 the group made the 198 items that helped three groups and organizations period last year it made 3300 items that help 26 groups and organizations.

In total, 6213 items have been made and donated to date. 3 long term care homes in Durham region, homeless shelters, children’s aid society, the local food bank and seven hospitals in the greater Toronto area—including the Ajax Pickering hospital—are among the 34 organizations community crafters currently assists. The number of crafters has grown from 10 to 45, all of whom donate their time and materials, whether it’s yarn or fabric. These selfless individuals produce beautiful items out of the goodness of their hearts to help comfort many folks who are in need of it their nominator says.

Pickering Probus Lakeside Club
The next community group award goes to Pickering probus lakeside club. Accepting the award for the club are Valerie Rodriguez and Heidi Linton.

Since it was established in January 2019, probus Pickering lakeside club has provided a host of activities social events and conversations to nearly 500 retired and semi retired people living in the city of Pickering and surrounding area.

Provost Pickering lakeside club offers a long list of activities that includes everything from arts and crafts and movie nights to excursions to destinations like Karen gate barn theatre, Regent theater, Stratford, the Saint Lawrence market, the distillery district, pass along my, St. Jacobs, the winter festival of lights at Niagara Falls, Prince Edward county and many more.

This vibrant club invites members to enjoy such physical activities as bowling, golfing, walking and hiking and offers introductory lawn bowling and pickleball sessions. Games days offer an array of games, including euchre mini bridge, Scrabble, trivia and strategic board games.

These activities are a great way for members to meet new people, participate in exciting and new interests, and just simply have fun and friendship, the clubs nominator reports

AMATEUR SPORTS AWARD

This award is given to one or more individuals from Pickering to recognize excellence in amateur sports over the last year.

Ryan Coholan
15 year old Ryan Coholan is an amateur youth sailor who has competed at provincial, national and international levels.

He got his start at the Frenchman’s Bay Yacht Club sailing school and race team sailing an optimist class dinghy. In 2022, he represented the club in Ontario as the optimist Canadian National championships in Nova Scotia. He was one of the first youth sailors in the club to compete at the national level in many years.

Ryan progressed to the international laser class association dinghy —One of the Olympic sailboat classes—and began training with the Royal Canadian yacht clubs development race team. He competed in regattas in Ontario, Florida and Michigan and qualified for his first youth world championship.

In June 2024, he competed in Portugal—one of just two Canadian boys in the under 16 category. The next month, he competed at the Canadian National championships in Nova Scotia and as the top placing male youth sailor, earned a spot at the 2025 World Championships period last year, Ryan was selected for the provincial Ontario sailing team and trains in its high-performance program.

Belinda Logan
A dedicated coach, mentor and overall cheerleader at bell wood equestrian center, Belinda Logan has contributed to the ongoing transformation of the youth equestrian community by fostering A welcoming inclusive environment where young athletes and writers can develop their skills as well as their confidence, resilience and overall well-being.

For close to 20 years, Belinda has been a driving force in making equestrian sports accessible to all while ensuring riders of diverse backgrounds and abilities feel supported and empowered.

Belinda has developed an approach to athletic athleticism using horsemanship as a tool to build confidence, encourage mindfulness and promote mental well-being among young athletes, her mentor tells us. Belinda has earned a reputation as an exceptional question leader, instilling in young riders the values of patience, responsibility and respect for both horses and fellow riders. Her dedication to skill development has Helped countless young equestrians advance to their training, weather and competition, recreational riding or personal growth. She developed a series of shows that allow riders and athletes to learn and experience a fun, affordable, laid back atmosphere to introduce young writers and athletes to the world of horse showing. All participants are welcomed, encouraged and celebrated, no matter their skills and or background.

Nancy Mary Phillips is the director of the Durham reads a special Hockey League for kids and adults. For the past 25 years, she has been a parent, fan and volunteer.

She now successfully runs the Durham dragon special hockey program, providing opportunities for those with developmental challenges to participate in the game of hockey when ineligible or unable to participate in an existing program due to their challenges.

Predication is credited with helping players develop their gross motor and social skills while building their confidence that they learn to and understand the game in keeping with their disability. Nancy has built the heart of the Durham Dragons, directing a group of volunteers who coach, keep time, referee, organize, supervise and fundraise year after year. She works tremendously hard the fund raised to keep registration fees to a minimum, as many of the players are on fixed incomes.

The Durham Dragons is comprised of four teams, with levels determined by a player’s ability and not by age. Any player in Durham region is eligible to play. Away games and tournaments are scheduled throughout the hockey season.
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YOUTH VOLUNTEER AWARD

The youth voluntary award is given to one or more Pickering youths for outstanding volunteerism within or outside of the city of Pickering over the past year or more.

Jenna Hamdan
Since becoming a youth volunteer and Pickering in April 2024, Jenna Hamdan has earned A reputation for her outstanding dedication and contributions. She has been an integral part of several community initiatives, including leisure bodies, cultural fusion, the fire services open house and winter nights, city lights. Her positive impact was especially evident in the leisure buddies program, where instructors can consistently praised her for her exceptional support and ability to connect with participants. They truly value her enthusiasm and dedication. At cultural fusion, Jenna went above and beyond by staying past her scheduled shift to assist with an urgent task, demonstrating her reliability and strong sense of responsibility. Jenna approaches every opportunity with kindness professionalism and a willingness to help wherever needed.

Mir Hashimi
As an active member of the school’s Muslim student association, Mir Hashimi has demonstrated leadership and an initiative.

By helping organize events to promote awareness, inclusivity and understanding of Muslim culture and values, he helps ensure students feel represented connected within the school environment.

Outside of school, Mir has demonstrated A commitment to helping those around him. His neighbors consistently witnessed his generosity and kindness—from shoveling driveways to helping neighbors with technology.

From repairing something in the garage to resolving technical issues, his reliability and willingness to assist have made him an invaluable presence in the lives of many.

Mir Hashimi Exemplifies the qualities of responsible compassion and community minded individual his nomination of shares. His actions rooted in humility and selflessness, inspire others to contribute to their commun ities.

Saranga Jeganthan
Sharanga Jeganthan, described as an outstanding young volunteer, has demonstrated exceptional dedication, enthusiasm and commitment to the city of pickering’s recreation programs.

In less than a year, she volunteered more than 130 hours of service. Sharanga Has been a key volunteer in the city’s leisure buddies program, with a particular dedication to assisting in gymnastics programs. Her passion for supporting participants shines through in every session. Her consistency and reliability have made her an invaluable asset to the program. In addition to her regular program commitments, Sharanga has also volunteered at professional activity day camps and numerous community events, including trick or treat at Pickering museum village, cultural fusion, Canada day and winter nights, city lights.

Her willingness to take on various roles in different settings demonstrates her adaptability and eagerness to contribute wherever needed. Sharanga Ensures a positive and inclusive environment for all

YOUTH LEADERSHIP AWARD

Anna Roy Massey
Anna Roy Massey has been a tremendous impact at Saint Mary Catholic secondary school and beyond.

In grade 9, the French immersion student joined the schools e-Nable club—a global humanitarian network that uses 3D printing technology to create prosthetics children and adults in need.

Over the years, Anna Roy took alrighton executive positions and in 2023 supported one of the club’s most notable accomplishments: sending 10 3D printed and assembled prosthetic hands to a hospital in Pakistan.

Anna Roy is also a member of Saint Mary’s alliance for compassion—the school’s gender-sexuality alliance. The group leader since 2023, they have been dedicated to ensuring student voices are heard. Anna Roy spearheaded a school wide shoe box campaign, which collected 48 shoe boxes filled with essential resources for youth experiencing homelessness. The boxes were donated to covenant house Toronto. Among other things, and Roy is also active with S4 a comma a social justice group focused on raising awareness of First Nations, indigenous and Metis They are active with the aids committees of Durham region, where they are involved with the one voice program and totally outright, a leadership building program for 2 S LGBTQIA+ youth in Durham.

ARTS AWARD

This award is given to one or more individuals, groups or businesses from Pickering to recognize significant artistic achievements within or outside of the city, over the last year or more.

Nyle Miigizi Johnston
Nyle Miigizi Johnston’s temporary light sculpture migizi (Bald Eagle) Saves the World was unveiled at City Hall as part of the winter’s nights, city lights, bringing Anishinaabe storytelling to the heart of the city.

The illuminated sculpture embodies the powerful creation story passed down through generations. It tells the story of the bald eagle who interceded with the creator to save turtle island from destruction, demonstrating the enduring power of humility, respect and hope.

The sculpture serves as both a visual and a spiritual reminder of the importance of living in a good way. It also fosters an essential dialogue about indigenous wisdom, environmental stewardship and the significance of storytelling and preserving cultural traditions. Nyle’s Work, deeply rooted in Anishinaabe culture, has been exhibited at such institutions as the Art Gallery of Ontario, the Royal Ontario Museum and the University of Toronto.

In the words of his nominator: his work enriches our community, offering a luminous beacon of hope, resilience and connection to the land.

Javid Jah, Alex Akbari, Wyandot Elder Catherine Tammaro
Artists Javid Jah,  Sir Alex Akbari and Wyandot Elder Catherine Tammaro created ayukwneenodih, a permanent public art walk installed at the intersection of Kingston and Whites Roads.

The sight- specific sculpture explores the continuous evolution of trade—not just in economic terms but as an exchange of ideas, traditions and learning. The artwork uses geometric forms, particularly the spiral, to represent movement, balance and finding one’s voice. A universal and ancestral symbol, the spiral reflects the rich history of the land, acknowledging the indigenous trade routes that existed long before the transformation of the area into what is now Hwy. 2.

As their nominator explains, this piece honors the deep rooted connections between land, language and legacy. It invites contemplation and engagement, offering the community a space to reflect on history, energy and resilience.

Beyond its artistic merit, the sculpture fosters a great understanding of Wyandot culture and indigenous teachings, ensuring those narratives remain visible and accessible within Pickering’s public realm.

CULTURAL DIVERSITY AWARD

Julian Biacuatro
Last year, Julian and his daughter won the literary silver book award in Los Angeles for their book, Yuletide Harmony: Christmas your way. The book celebrates the day first cultural experience of Christmas of Christmas in Canada, showcasing Julian’s appointment to the cultural advisory committee this past fall further underscores his role as a proponent of cultural diversity, inclusion and army in Pickering.

As a member of the public art jury, Julian plays a important role in shaping the artistic landscape of Pickering, ensuring public art reflects and celebrates the city’s diverse cultural tapestry.

Julian is a sought after resource speaker on agriculture and biotechnology, with his innovative ideas being implemented in West Africa. His work addresses critical issues such as food security, circular act economy adoption and sustainable livelihood creation in sub-Saharan regions, demonstrating the commitment to global development and cross cultural collaboration.

Julian also volunteers his expertise as Catalyste+ advisor. Catalyste+ is a Canadian economic development organization that provides mentorship and advisory services to strengthen local skills and organizational capacities in emerging countries and indigenous communities worldwide.

In this role Julian contributes to empowering marginalized communities and fostering economic growth and diverse cultural context.

Julian Baricuatro is also an entrepreneur, and an accomplished marketing professional. He has founded multiple successful enterprises and organized major events such as the Canada coconut festival, world super foods Expo, and world coffee and tea Expo.

Debbie Thompson was elected chair of the cultural advisory committee in 2023—at position she held through October 2024. Debbie was re elected as chair again this year.

Debbie championed the committees mandate at every meeting and was pivotal in the creation of its first subcommittee: Pickering arts cultural and engagement also known as P.A.C.E.

The committees objective is to engage each of Pickering’s cultural communities by showcasing elements of their culture through arts, music, dance and food to the community at large through new initiatives, activities and partnerships. Debbie went a step beyond her normal duties as chair of the cultural advisory committee when she volunteered to serve as master of ceremonies at Cultural Fusion at Esplanade park last September and again for winter nights, city lights in December.

In the words of her nominator: her contributions, enthusiasm and positivity around the provision of culture and Pickering have been outstanding.
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HERITAGE AWARD

This award is given to one or more individuals, groups or businesses who have demonstrated a significant contribution to the preservation, conservation, education and or promotional Pickering’s heritage.

Oddside Arts
Last year, Pickering museum village launched a new permanent exhibit entitled Roots to Remember in the log house and barn.

Oddside Arts Was contracted to bring the exhibit to life with augmented reality and animation centering on the black experience and Ontario in the 1830s.

10 augmented reality pieces were created using artifacts, images and maps from both the museum’s collection and other heritage institutions. Those pieces come to life with animation, music and voice overs to tell the story of early black settlement and the rebellion of 1837. Each artifact shares a unique story

Oddside arts also provided animations and video editing for the exhibits introductory video. It invites the viewer to discover the life changing events that happened between the American Revolution and the rebellion of 1837, including emancipation may, the United empire loyalists and the colored corps.

Outside arts help museum staff bring difficult topics to life in a respectful and interesting way. Pickering museum village reports receiving fantastic feedback from visiting children and educators.
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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AWARD

Atkins Realis
Atkins Realis has made significant contributions to the Pickering community across such areas as energy, economic growth, environment and community engagement. One of its most notable contributions was its involvement in the Pickering nuclear generating stations refurbishment project. In partnership with a icon Group Inc dot, Atkins Realis secured as a $2 billion contract to refurbish 4 units at the power station

This project is crucial for Ontario’s energy future, ensuring the continued supply of clean, affordable and reliable power for another 40 plus years. Go headquartered in Montreal, Atkins Realis’ decision to open a new office in Pickering had an immediate impact on the Durham region, being valuable, highly skilled, new jobs.

The office supports the refurbishment of the Pickering and Darlington nuclear generating stations, as well as the work required for Darlington’s new nuclear small modular reactor program. As part of its commitment to environmental sustainability, Adkins Realis helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions by providing can do technology for low carbon electricity. That technology also produces cobalt 60—a medical isotope used in cancer treatment and supports global healthcare initiatives Atkins Realis has also committed to community engagement and corporate social responsibility period last year, it published its inaugural annual integrity integrated rate report, showcasing A dedication to ethical practices, sustainability and transparency.

Derlea Brands Foods Inc.
Derlea Brands Foods has probably operated in the city of Pickering for more than 25 years, providing quality ingredients and favorite solutions to its customers. It supplies its line of ingredients, spreads and sauces to retailers commas restaurants and food manufacturers across Canada and the US. Its products can be found such well known grocers as Costco, Longo’s, Metro, Sobeys and Walmart.

Derlea Is a trusted company that strives for excellence in all facets of its business. Domestic and imported raw premium ingredients are sourced from trusted growers. It holds recognized and reputable certifications, including safe quality food, USDA organic, gluten free and kosher.

Derlea Was founded by Salvatore Geraci as a small family owned and operated business and has probably grown over the years period today, it employs more than 80 employees at its 95,000 square foot facility.

Derlea Is focused on growing its business, which will impact our local wanted to buy creating additional jobs in further strengthening its value to our community. Dearly generously gives back to social causes that benefit our local community. It supports such sustainability initiatives as the Ajax Pickering hospital indigenous community and healing garden and the native pollinator garden planting.
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LOCAL BUSINESS AWARD

Premier Brands
Premier brands has imported quality suites, confectionery and chocolate since 1987. Imports products under the water bridge brand as well as private label products for such retailers as farm boy and Walmart. Last year, premier brands welcomed me and our economic development team to its facility, giving us a comprehensive tour to better better educate us on the scope of its business.

Premier brands also participated in economic developments agrifoods spotlight video that was shared on social media. The company also sponsored table gifts for the Ajax Pickering board of trades holiday luncheon in December.

Some of Premier Brands products—namely it’s water bridge line of mixed gummies—went viral on TikTok, elevating the water bridge line.

It’s an honor to recognize premier brands products, its continued commitment to safety and quality, and its continuous collaboration with various stakeholders and partners.

Tooth Connection Dental
Tooth Connection Dental was among the first dental clinics in Pickering to accept the Canadian dental care plan M-A national initiative designed to reduce financial barriers to essential dental care for low-income Canadians.

By accepting the plan, tooth connection dental ensures children receive checkups cleanings and filling services that help establish the foundation for lifelong oral health. For seniors, the plan offers coverage for essential treatment should it may otherwise be unaffordable.

Tooth connection dental was also among the first Invisalign platinum plus providers and Pickering, Underscoring its expertise in advanced orthodontics. Doctor Rachel Kitsopanidid, The principal dentist, won the best Invisalign case result of North America in 2024.

Tooth connection dental earned the top choice dental office awards in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 20 24. Those awards reflect the clients commitment to outstanding patient care, professionalism and commitment to improving the dental health of Pickering residents.

The clinic is also fully committed to accessibility for patients with disabilities, ensuring all members of the community can access care and a comfortable and accommodating environment.

Additionally, 2 connection dental offers affordable payment options for patients without private insurance, making dental care more accessible to the entire community.

Seniors Helpers Durham Region
Seniors helpers Durham region, Ali provider of in home senior care services, plays an essential role in supporting seniors to live independently and comfortably in their own homes. At the heart of the agency’s philosophy is the belief that aging individuals deserve to live with dignity and respect and at the highest level of care, regardless of the challenges they may face. The agency provides A comprehensive range of services to ensure seniors receive the assistance they need to maintain their independence and enjoy a fulfilling life. Core services include personal care, companionship, respite care and specialized Alzheimer’s and dementia care period senior helpers Durham region is also known for its expertise in delivering Parkinson’s disease care.

The agency takes care and hiring staff who are not only skilled and knowledgeable but also compassionate and patient, understanding the unique needs of seniors. Caregivers are matched with clients based on compatibility, ensuring the best possible relationship and experience for each senior. Senior helpers Durham region provides educational resources for members and caregivers it helps raise awareness about senior health issues and advocates for the needs of the aging population.

ENVIRONMENT AWARD

Susan Monderich
Susan Monderich is a local artist who is inspired by nature experiences that she documents her prayer public journals and with her camera while exploring pickering’s natural environment.

And each of our linocut prints, Susan celebrates biodiversity, ecosystems and conservation while reflecting the stunning beauty of Pickering’s wild spaces.

Truer art, she strives to raise awareness of the awe-inspiring nature based events in our urban environments her nominator tells us.

Through community workshops, Susan has helped to teach others and has volunteered to run an activity at the city’s environment Day.

When a Beaver family moved into a Creek near her home a few years ago, she contacted the city, as she was eager to educate fellow residents about the benefits of beavers to the environment.

She worked with staff to explore solutions to allow the community to successfully coexist with this species. That story further illustrates susan’s passion for educating the community about the benefits wildlife plays in our ecosystem.

Susan uses her artwork workshops and communication channels to share her knowledge and to inspire others.

GREEN BUILDER AWARD

Regional Municipality of Durham Seaton Long Term Care Facility
The region of Durham Seaton long term care facility serves as a model of HOW sustainability responsible design can be effectively integrated into institutional projects.

The facility was designed to include a long list of features, including enhanced energy efficiency, high performance building on globes and advanced stormwater management solutions. The low impact development techniques support natural water infiltration and reduced runoff. Features also include a 30% reduction in potable water consumption compared to Ontario building code requirements and a 48-hour fuel capacity generator to increase facility resiliency during power outages.

The facility features 75% native landscaping escaping to support biodiversity, ecosystem health and reduce irrigation requirements. Outdoor amenity spaces promote mental health and physical well-being while fostering social interaction.

The facility also features electric vehicle chargers and rough ends for future stations. A solar ready roof design will enable integration of renewable energy solutions, enhancing the buildings ability to adapt to future energy demands. By embracing both the mandatory Tier 1 and voluntary Tier 2 performance measures of the integrated sustainable design standards, the Seaton Long Term Care Facility  contributes to the environmental and social resiliency of the community and reinforces the shared goals of sustainability and community well-being between the region of Durham and the city of Pickering.

ANIMAL ADVOCATE AWARD

Jennifer Gould
This past year, Jennifer Gould has been a dedicated foster for Pickering Animal Services, opening our heart and our home to 16 animals in need — 9 of which were fosters.

She takes in dogs, cats and small critters, providing them with a loving, temporary space while they await adoption. Jennifer’s role goes beyond just providing food and care shelter period she invests time in socializing training and meeting each animal’s unique needs.

Her, compassionate demeanor helps the animals adjust, thrive and gain the confidence needed to find their forever homes, or nominator shares. Thanks to our selflessness and unwavering commitment, many animals have gone on to live happy, fulfilled lives.

This past December, Jennifer fostered Quincy, a sweet and shy dog who had been waiting for a loving home. Over time, Quincy blossomed into a playbook, affectionate companion. Whatever began as a temporary foster arrangement turned into a forever commitment with Jennifer adopting him and giving him the permanent home he deserved.

Maya Mahabir
The Animal Services team first met Maya Mahabir several years ago when she was working as a dog trainer at PetSmart Pickering. Last year, the team reached out to her to see if she would be interested in volunteering at its shelter to work with some of the dogs there.

Maya was enthusiastic and eagerly accepted the opportunity. She had been visiting the shelter twice a week to help socialize the dogs and make them more adoptable

In addition to working with dogs, Maya educates shelter staff on effective training methods tailored to each dog’s needs. Her approach focuses on positive reinforcement and building strong relationships with the dogs.

Once the dogs are adopted, Maya and PetSmart charities offer a free 30 minute private training session to all adopters. Animal Services appreciates maya’s dedication to helping its dogs and looks forward to her weekly visits.

Stu Johnson, Pat Kelly
The final animal advocate award goes to Stu Johnson and Paul Kelly.

Stu Johnson and Paul Kelly have demonstrated selflessness and bravery countless times over many years. They are dedicated volunteers with shades of hope Wildlife Refuge and team Chelsea lost pet search group and have also helped Durham regional police services when called upon.

They have rescued lost pets, injured or sick wildlife, and abandoned animals including dogs, cats, owls and other birds of prey, coyotes, foxes and even a kangaroo.

Paul sets up equipment and cameras to narrow down the search and to monitor wildlife return to their habitat. Stu climbs—sometimes to great heights—handles and saves countless lives.

In one instance, the pair helped save a great horned owlet that had fallen more than 40 feet from its nest. After feeding and rehydrating adding it, they constructed a new nest fashion from a laundry basket that secured Paris Lee high to the tree that housed the original nest. The outlet was returned to its new home in a webcam was sent to make sure the parents returned. After a few hours, one of the parents returned and was taking care of the baby. That’s just one of the numerous stories that illustrate stool and Paul’s commitment to animals.