This year I decided to take a leap of faith by applying to Plan Canada’s Top 20 Under 20 award. I would encourage you to apply and believe in yourself: Canada’s Top 20 Under 20

I didn’t think I would even have a chance but I truly miss 100% of the shots I don’t take. I was intimidated by previous winners because they were phenomenal teenagers, and I personally thought I wasn’t ever going to be good enough. So after spending a lot of time on my application, I was ecstatic to be shortlisted to the 40 finals, and eventually to the Top 20. I wasn’t able to fully believe or have the time to celebrate as 20 more exams had graced me with their presence during May and June.

As the Leadership summit rolled up though, I still couldn’t believe that I was a recipient. Winning the award humbled me in a different way. As many of you know I had a lack of confidence and always brought myself down. But after this summit I began to understand that confidence didn’t necessarily mean that I had to think that I was good, but that fact that I had potential to do something, something that perhaps meant changing the world.

The most important thing during those 4 days that I was in Toronto, was that I made life long friends with the other 19 mind blowing individuals. They have made incredible impacts in their communities and their worlds, and their work inspires me every single day.

I understand that I was so lucky to have been chosen among the many applicants in Canada but I know that there are many unrecognized individuals who do so much, and I just wanted to say that this award doesn’t only bring recognition to the work and people I want to help, but for you. This award was for you, for those out there who need a boost. You are the people I also want to help, I want you to believe in yourself and to love yourself. This includes holding onto who you are, what you value, and your morals. Don’t ever let that go!

Thank you everyone for the kind comments and the continuous support because I really wouldn’t have been able to get through the tough times this year without your love. I love you all very much and thanks for being the best online community I have experienced ever!

If you ever need help with your application for this award or any for that matter, don’t hesitate to reach out because I would love to help you!