Three Okanagan residents were among 48 students from across B.C. to have their outstanding efforts recognized with Coast Capital Savings Education Awards this year.
Kelowna resident Michael Potts was awarded the credit union’s Citizenship Award valued at $2,000 for his achievements in juggling school, personal activities and community involvement.
In addition to his outstanding academic performance, Potts is a youth leader at his church and raised thousands of dollars in humanitarian aid and participated in several mission trips abroad.
Potts wants to become a medical doctor and work with Doctors Without Borders.
“This is a wonderful way to kick off the start of a new school year,” said Potts, who is studying nursing at UBC Okanagan.
“It is exciting to be recognized by an organization that shares my passion and commitment for the community.”
Amina Egeh, also of Kelowna, took home a $5,000 Standing Tall Award for making a positive impact on her community in the face of personal challenges.
Egeh is the president of Kelowna Secondary School’s Me to We Social Justice Club and was elected president of her graduating class.
She intends to go to law school and work in politics once she completes her undergraduate degree.
“I can’t express how thankful I am to be recognized with an education award from Coast Capital Savings,” said Egeh, who is studying public affairs and policy management at Carleton University.
“I know there were many deserving applicants this year and to be among such outstanding recipients is a huge honour.”
Philip Akins, of West Kelowna, received a Citizenship Award valued at $2,000 for his efforts in managing a demanding academic life while balancing community involvement.
Akins is currently pursuing a PhD in collaborative resource management and protected areas at the University of Victoria.
He also created a volunteer group to preserve trails in Okanagan Mountain Provincial Park and was part of the committee overseeing the development plan of West Kelowna’s waterfront.
“It’s great to be recognized for my hard work along with the other very deserving recipients,” said Akins.
“This award will help me pursue my PhD and ease some of the financial pressure that comes with post-secondary education.”
Wendy Lachance, director of community leadership for Coast Capital Savings, said the credit union received nearly 1,000 award applications this year from across the province.
“Coast Capital Savings is committed to helping build a richer future for youth in our communities,” Lachance said.
“One of our goals is to help youth succeed during their school years and through our annual Education Awards program we recognize students who have overcome personal challenges and students who have demonstrated a strong commitment to their communities while attending school.
“It is an honour to support these outstanding young people.”
This year Coast Capital Savings presented 48 awards totaling $144,000 to deserving students from across B.C.
Coast Capital Savings also fosters student leadership through internships on its Youth Team program. Coast Capital Savings Credit Union is Canada’s second largest credit union with total assets under $13.5 billion.