Ontario Honours 11 Exceptional Youth Volunteers at Queen’s Park Ceremony

TORONTO — Ontario celebrated 11 young leaders today with the province’s highest recognition for youth volunteerism — the 2023 Ontario Medal for Young Volunteers (OMYV).

At a special ceremony at Queen’s Park, the Honourable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, presented the prestigious medals to recipients aged 15 to 24, recognizing their outstanding contributions to communities across the province.

“These young people have demonstrated exemplary civic engagement by serving others, standing up for worthy causes, and bringing forward innovative ideas to support their communities,” said Lieutenant Governor Dumont during the ceremony. “While they may be at the beginning of their paths, they already embody the values of generosity and compassion in their leadership.”

The 2023 OMYV recipients include community organizers, gender equity advocates, STEM innovators, environmental champions, and mental health advocates — each making a powerful impact locally and beyond. Their dedication exemplifies how volunteerism continues to shape Ontario’s identity and strengthen its communities.

The event coincides with the start of National Volunteer Week, a time dedicated to recognizing the vital role of volunteers in building a stronger and more unified Ontario.

“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the 2023 recipients of the Ontario Medal for Young Volunteers,” said Graham McGregor, Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism. “It is our privilege to honour such an inspiring group of individuals and to acknowledge your invaluable contributions towards building a stronger Ontario.”

Since its inception in 1998, the Ontario Medal for Young Volunteers has been awarded to 217 young Ontarians who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, compassion, and civic spirit.

Residents interested in nominating a young volunteer for the 2024 medal can find more information and submission details on the Ontario Medal for Young Volunteers webpage. Nominations are due by January 15 each year.

Quick Facts:

• The Ontario Medal for Young Volunteers is the province’s highest honour for youth volunteerism.

• In 2024, the Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism hosted over 50 ceremonies recognizing more than 7,200 volunteers.

• Additional awards recognizing outstanding volunteer contributions include the Ontario Volunteer Service Awards and the June Callwood Outstanding Achievement Award for Voluntarism.

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