Awardee Spotlight: Maya Hatamiaghdam

This year, the Thrive Youth Leadership Awards proudly celebrate four incredible young people who embody the spirit of resilience, determination, and hope. These outstanding individuals, selected from a pool of nominees with previous involvement in Thrive Youth programs, have demonstrated exceptional growth, excellence, and leadership in their own unique ways.

Maya’s Thrive Youth Leadership Award was presented by Regina Cheong, National Director, Business Development from Intact Prestige.

At just 15, Maya Hatamiaghdam has already made a remarkable impact as a community leader. Maya’s journey has been shaped by her passion for leadership, resilience, and advocacy. Growing up in Iran, she faced societal restrictions that inspired her family's immigration to Canada in search of freedom and opportunities. Adapting to a new country presented challenges, but it also fueled Maya’s determination to create positive change in her community.

Maya’s love for math led her to establish a math club, where she fosters a supportive and collaborative environment for students who share her passion. Through Thrive Youth’s programs, she has expanded her creative and leadership skills, gaining the tools to inspire others and lead by example. Maya’s vision of leadership centers on empathy, empowerment, and inclusivity, believing in the importance of uplifting others and uniting people towards shared goals.

A positive role model, Maya is dedicated to advancing STEM education, advocating for youth involvement in community decision-making, and using visual art to address social issues. Her story demonstrates the power of youth leadership, and she hopes to inspire others to embrace their potential and drive meaningful change.

Awardee Spotlight: Gabriel Hodgins

This year, the Thrive Youth Leadership Awards proudly celebrate four incredible young people who embody the spirit of resilience, determination, and hope. These outstanding individuals, selected from a pool of nominees with previous involvement in Thrive Youth programs, have demonstrated exceptional growth, excellence, and leadership in their own unique ways.

Gabriel’s Thrive Youth Leadership Award was presented by Jessica Roberts, Vice President, Citizenship & ESG of RBC Capital Markets.

Gabriel Hodgins, a 20-year-old student at York University, is recognized for his dedication to uplifting his community and empowering others through sports and education. Inspired by his mother, a devoted volunteer and teacher, Gabriel grew up learning the value of giving back. He currently volunteers at Moss Park Hockey League, the only free hockey league in North America, where he helps provide opportunities to underprivileged children—the same league he played in as a child. He also works for the City of Toronto Parks and Recreation, teaching basketball to children from preschool to teenagers, using his platform to mentor and inspire.

Growing up in a single-parent household and facing challenges like bullying and self-confidence issues, Gabriel found strength in community and leadership. He credits Thrive Youth’s programs for fostering his growth, giving him the confidence and leadership skills he needed to excel in both sports and life.

Enthusiastic and always ready to encourage others, Gabriel is a natural leader both on and off the court. He aims to maintain an 80% average at university and deepen his involvement in basketball scouting, supporting young players and coaches. Through his story, Gabriel hopes to inspire others to overcome challenges and embrace the power of community and leadership to achieve their dreams.

Awardee Spotlight: Ira Zlomynoha

This year, the Thrive Youth Leadership Awards proudly celebrate four incredible young people who embody the spirit of resilience, determination, and hope. These outstanding individuals, selected from a pool of nominees with previous involvement in Thrive Youth programs, have demonstrated exceptional growth, excellence, and leadership in their own unique ways.

Ira’s Thrive Youth Leadership Award was presented by Anthea McFarland, SVP, Personal Insurance and Private Client Management of HUB International Canada.

At just 14, Ira Zlomynoha has faced challenges that many adults might never experience. Born in Ukraine, Ira's early school years were marked by a passion for learning and a deep involvement in clubs and competitions in Kam'yanets'-Podil's'kiy. From excelling in language, arts, and athletics to taking on leadership roles such as class president, Ira was always ready to seize opportunities. However, everything changed with the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, forcing her family to flee their home and begin a new life, first in Lithuania, and later in Canada.

Despite the upheaval, Ira’s resilience and determination never wavered. Learning new languages, adapting to different cultures, and building new friendships were difficult, but she tackled these challenges head-on, excelling in school, joining clubs, and even volunteering at a library summer camp in Lithuania. In Canada, Ira quickly found her footing, joining the Track and Field team, choir, and student council, while continuing to pursue her academic and personal goals.

Ira’s dedication to learning and leadership has been shaped by her experiences with Thrive Youth, where she discovered the power of her voice and the importance of standing up for what she believes in. Whether reposting about social justice online or actively engaging in her community, Ira is committed to making a difference.

With goals of attending a prestigious university, learning French, and becoming a great artist, Ira’s story is one of perseverance and unwavering hope. She believes that no matter the challenges, dedication and effort will always open new doors, inspiring others to keep pushing forward.