JASON SETNYK
The 2026 YourTV Youth Achievement Awards recognized 24 local students whose actions, achievements, and community involvement are making a difference across Cornwall and the surrounding area. The ceremony, powered by the Optimist Club of Cornwall and YourTV Cornwall, honoured students from Grades 4 to 12 attending schools in Cornwall, South Stormont, and South Glengarry.
“Thank you for coming out tonight to help us honour 24 outstanding young individuals who are making a difference in their schools and our community,” said co-host Shawna Mecteau. Students were recognized in three categories: At My Best, Giving Back, and Kindness is Cool. The awards were divided into four grade levels, with recipients chosen following nominations from school staff and community members.
The At My Best category recognized students who achieved beyond expectations in areas such as academics, athletics, music, art, writing, and drama. Recipients were Parker McDonald, Demilade Adeyinka, Harper Boa, Emily Fullarton, Kyley McDonald, Isla McNally, Hajer Belmebarki, and Sean Lalonde. Kyley McDonald said being part of the event was an inspiring experience. “It was amazing to be surrounded by so many inspiring kids and teens who are making a difference in their communities. Being recognized alongside them was truly an honour, and I am grateful for this opportunity,” said McDonald. “The experience motivated me to continue working hard, helping others, and making a positive impact wherever I can.”
Parker McDonald, who has battled cancer, said the award came at a meaningful time. “When I was in the hospital, I found out I won a youth award. It gave me something to look forward to, and I’m really thankful. Hearing everyone else’s stories was so cool, and I was happy to be there with them at the ceremony.”
The Giving Back category honoured students who volunteer their time, support causes, lead fundraising initiatives, and contribute to issues such as inclusion, the environment, and community needs. This year’s recipients were Charlotte Paquette, Denith Silva, Kali Grant, Samuel Lessard, Itay Klein, Vithushan Nadarasan, Giuliana Macchiagodena, and Ximena Trejo Castelán. Klein said receiving the award was an honour. “I thank everyone who believed in me, and I’m looking forward to continuing my engagement with our amazing community,” he stated.
The Kindness is Cool category recognized students who demonstrate acts of kindness, encouragement, heroism, or support for others without seeking personal gain. Recipients included Hailey Viau, Maely McBride, Lily Archambault, Nevaeh Taillon, Mady Kisnics, Lacie Ducharme Ceasor, Antonios Fourkiotis, and Tenley Hogeveen. Fourkiotis said the support of those around him helped shape his accomplishments. “I feel as though I would never have made it as far as I have without the people involved in my life like my family, coaches and teachers,” said Fourkiotis, who also thanked the SD&G Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps. “Caring for your community takes more than just doing what you’re told, sometimes you need to want to help others to truly make a difference in the world,” he added.
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