VKH STUDENT WINS VIMY PILGRIMAGE AWARD
Anna Kouao has won a prestigious Vimy Pilgrimage Award, earning her a weeklong tour of First World War battlefields and museums throughout France and Belgium.
“It was one of the most exciting and overwhelming feelings I’ve ever experienced,” Kouao said about her win. “Going to where some of the most important battles in Canadian history have happened will give me a deeper understanding of what occurred there, and help me become a better citizen.”
Foundation goal
The Vimy Foundation presents the award annually, to recognize outstanding youth dedicated to the betterment of society through volunteer work, positive contributions, notable deeds, or bravery. As part of the honour, Kouao, a Grade 10 student at Vankleek Hill Collegiate Institute (VCI), will join 19 other students from across Canada, on a fully funded tour of Belgium and France, from April 1 to 10.
Historical tour
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Student volunteerism
Kouao was selected, following an intensive application process, because of her wide-ranging volunteer work at school and in her community, some of which include volunteering with the Acquire for Children ZPVUI DIPJS UIF 7BOLMFFL )JMM .VTJD BOE "SUT Summer Camp; and VCI’s Interact Club and Bridge Crew. She has also helped with VCI’s We Scare Hunger food drive, Child Haven International fundraising dinners, and a cake auction to benefit Champions for Kids.
Women in wartime
In the lead-up to the trip, Kouao will participate in a group research project on the contributions of Canadian women to the war effort, and report on a Canadian soldier buried in one of the cemeteries the group will visit.
Kouao’s award serves to highlight the community development and spirit of public service which is also part of the VCI curriculum.
“This is a very prestigious award and a great opportunity for Anna to learn about an important part of our nation’s history,” said VCI Principal Trevor Wheeler. “We are very proud of her.”