Oakville youth shine bright at 2025 Youth Awards

Twelve outstanding youth were honoured at the 2025 Oakville Youth Awards, held May 7 at the Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts. This annual event celebrates young leaders who are making a meaningful and lasting impact on their community.

This year’s award recipients are:

• Youth Emerging Leader Award – Akshaj Kshirasagar (Junior), Kaitlyn Hou (Senior)
• Youth Artist Award – Sophia Ran (Junior), Bonnie Luo (Senior)
• Youth Involvement Award – Rachel Liu (Junior), Kolina Kakan (Senior)
• Youth Sports Award – Katherine Lu (Junior), Charis Dooley (Senior)
• Youth STEM Award – Jacob Lei (Junior), Anthony Efthimiadis (Senior)
• Youth Environment Award – Suvi Kakan (Junior), Colin Delevante (Senior)

The high-energy celebration featured live performances and heartfelt moments and was live-streamed for family and friends who couldn’t attend in person. A recording is available on the Oakville Youth Awards page.

This inspiring event capped off National Youth Week, which featured free activities and learning opportunities for youth ages 11 to 17. In total, 102 exceptional young people were nominated for their contributions to the Oakville community.

The Oakville Youth Awards are presented in partnership with the Oakville Youth Action Committee (OYAC) and generously sponsored by the Halton Muslim Youth Association.

Learn more about Youth Services and programs.

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"Oakville’s future is bright thanks to the passion, leadership, and dedication of our youth. These awards honour the meaningful contributions young people are making today and the promise they hold for shaping a stronger tomorrow."

- Mayor Rob Burton