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Kitchener, Ontario – The Kitchener Youth Action Council (KYAC) Youth Awards were presented at Victoria Park Pavilion earlier this evening. This annual event celebrates the talents and contributions of youth ages 14 to 24 in our community.   

“Kitchener youth are doing remarkable things and making a real impact in our community,” said Kitchener Mayor Berry Vrbanovic. “Tonight’s celebration is an opportunity for the City to honour the dedication and efforts of young people who are actively working to make Kitchener, and our Region, a better place for all. I’m confident these young leaders will continue to drive innovation, foster community development, and create meaningful change in our city.”  

With nearly 100 attendees and special guests joining them to celebrate, more than 40 nominated youth were recognized for their community involvement and awards were presented by Kitchener councillors to youth in 13 categories, including arts and culture, leadership, sports and recreation, unity in diversity, and social justice, among others. The Youth Ally award was also presented which recognizes any adult (ages 24+) serving as a positive role model for youth in the community.  

Congratulations to all the nominees and the 2025 KYAC Youth Award recipients:  

  • Arts & Culture: Isaac Zepeda Ayala 

  • Community Contribution: Tor La 

  • Entrepreneurship: Joshua Wu 

  • Environment: Dev Katyal 

  • Intergenerational: Rachel Guth 

  • Leadership: Aasha Khan 

  • Personal Triumph: Mohammed Ahmed 

  • Service & Caregiving: Makenna Ollerenshaw 

  • Social Justice & Action:  Tanner Bergsma 

  • Sports & Recreation: Olivia Tomlin 

  • Unity in Diversity: Angela Buitrago Munoz 

  • Group Award: Harvest to Garnish 

  • Youth Ally:  Erin Hogan & Lily Viggiano  

 

The KYAC Youth Awards generate awareness for the leadership, talent, and meaningful contributions of youth in Kitchener, while inspiring young people to become more involved in their community. The event is organized and hosted each year by the Kitchener Youth Action Council 

For more information on the KYAC Youth Awards, or to subscribe to be notified when nominations open for 2026, visit www.kitchener.ca/YouthAwards.  

 

For information contact: 
Tracy Jasmins 

Communications & Marketing Associate 
City of Kitchener   
media@kitchener.ca