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Youth Leadership Awards.

Each year, our Youth Leadership Awards recognize exceptional high school students who are making a positive impact on their schools and communities. These awards celebrate young people who lead with purpose, inspire others through their actions and help build a stronger Saskatchewan. By investing in the next generation of leaders, we're investing in the future of our communities.

Interested in applying?

Applications open each spring. Follow Conexus on Facebook and Instagram for application details, eligibility requirements and important dates. 

A young woman in a graduation cap and gown smiles while confetti falls around her.

Meet our 2026 Youth Leadership Award winners.

In 2026, we doubled the program, recognizing 12 outstanding high school students with $5,000 each to support their post- secondary education and future goals. From quiet acts of service to bold community initiatives, these young leaders are making a difference where it matters most. 

Catherine Okolita

Community: Fort Qu'Appelle

School: Saskatchewan Distance Learning Centre

Post-secondary plans: Catherine will be attending Dalhousie University this fall, where she is enrolled in the Bachelor of Science (Medical Sciences) program.

Catherine stood out for her exceptional ability to turn compassion into meaningful, impact. As the founder of “Catherine’s Cause,” she has led initiatives that have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars in support of critical community needs, demonstrating both vision and an extraordinary commitment to helping others.

Beyond her accomplishments, Catherine leads with authenticity, purpose and a strong sense of responsibility to her community. She is committed to creating opportunities for others and making a meaningful impact through her leadership and service. Catherine exemplifies the kind of driven, community-focused leadership this award celebrates.

Elliana Christoffel

Community: Regina

School: Harvest City Christian Academy 

Post-secondary plans: Elliana will be attending the University of Regina, where she is enrolled in the Bachelor of Education (Elementary) program.

Elliana made an impact with her strong commitment to inclusion within her school and community. She goes above and beyond to support others, most notably through her work with the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Program, where she uses her ASL skills to support student learning and help foster inclusive environments. 

Alongside her academic success, Elliana is deeply involved in extracurriculars and volunteer work - from leading worship teams to participating in school productions and serving in her community locally and abroad. Her ability to turn compassion into action reflects a dedication to making a difference.

Turner Fry

Community: Regina

School: Campbell Collegiate

Post-secondary plans: Turner will be attending the University of Regina, where he is enrolled in the Bachelor of Business Administration program. 

Turner is a strong leader who consistently steps up and gets involved wherever he can make a difference. Whether in the classroom, on the field, or through school activities, he brings energy, commitment and a positivity to those around him. 

As VP Operations of his student-run business, Turner demonstrated both entrepreneurial thinking and accountability, helping lead a successful venture from idea to execution. He also played a key role on his school’s business case team, contributing to strong results at both the collegiate and provincial levels. Turner brings a collaborative approach to leadership that strengthens every team he’s part of.

Hadyn Francoeur

Community: St. Walburg

School: St. Walburg School

Post-Secondary Plans: 
Hadyn will be attending the University of Regina, where she is enrolled in the Pre-Social Work program. 

Empathetic and thoughtful, Hadyn demonstrates a strong ability to listen, understand, and support others which creates space for voices that might otherwise go unheard. Across her school and community, Hadyn leads with quiet confidence and integrity. Whether through student leadership, athletics, drama, or volunteering, she consistently shows up with a genuine commitment to those around her.

Judy Missens

Community: Pasqua First Nation / Regina

School: Miller Comprehensive Catholic High School

Post-Secondary Plans: 
Judy will be attending the University of Toronto, where she is enrolled in the Forensic Science program. 

Judy has a reputation for strong cultural leadership and commitment to representation within her community. She brings pride, confidence and purpose to everything she does, using her voice and platform to share her culture and inspire others. 

Through powwow demonstrations, community events and her role as Senior Pasqua Princess, Judy connects with diverse audiences while promoting understanding and pride. She is deeply committed to being a positive role model for Indigenous youth and encouraging future generations to see themselves reflected with confidence and possibility.

Noah Welter

Community: Prince Albert

School: École St. Mary High School

Post-Secondary Plans: 
Noah will be attending the University of Saskatchewan, where he is enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology program.

Noah brings a calm, dependable presence to leadership, using his influence to support others in both high-pressure and everyday moments. 

As a captain and Team Saskatchewan athlete, he demonstrates a team-first approach- mentoring others while driving performance. His volunteer work in a hospital setting reflects a strong commitment to helping others, where he shows great patience and empathy. His composure and strong sense of responsibility are what make him a deserving recipient of this award.

Anika Elgersma

Community: Wakaw

School: Wakaw School

Post-Secondary Plans: 
Anika will be attending Simon Fraser University, where she is enrolled in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. 

Anika approaches leadership with purpose and authenticity, helping build a more connected community. She brings forward ideas that strengthen inclusion and create opportunities for others. 

From co-leading her school’s student leadership team to supporting mental health initiatives and organizing community fundraisers, Anika has shown a genuine commitment to making a difference. Her involvement across academics, athletics and the arts reflects both her versatility and her drive to give back. Anika’s leadership is grounded in integrity, making her a strong example of the impact this award represents.

Alliya Dmytruk

Community: Prince Albert

School: École St. Mary High School

Post-Secondary Plans: 
Alliya will be attending the Saskatchewan Collaborative Bachelor of Science in Nursing program in Saskatoon.

Alliya is known for her selfless commitment to supporting the people around her. Whether through athletics, mentorship, or community involvement, she consistently prioritizes the well-being and growth of others. 

From mentoring younger teammates to advocating for individuals with allergies and supporting residents in long-term care, Alliya leads with patience, and a strong sense of responsibility.  She creates environments where people feel supported and empowered.

Morgan Eurich

Community: Luseland 

School: Luseland District School 

Post-Secondary Plans: 
Morgan will be attending the University of Saskatchewan, where she is enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene program. 

Morgan is recognized for her reliability and initiative to keep things running smoothly behind the scenes. No matter the area of her life, she consistently steps up and follows through.

She leads through action. Whether organizing community events, serving on local committees, mentoring young athletes, or contributing to her family farm, she brings a practical, hands-on approach focused on solving problems in her community.

Eman Shahid

Community: Lloydminster 

School: Lloydminster Comprehensive High School

Post-Secondary Plans: 
Eman is enrolled in a University Transfer Science program.

Eman takes a thoughtful and inclusive approach to leadership, focused on creating spaces where everyone feels valued and encouraged to participate. She uses her gift to bring people together and foster meaningful connection.

Through organizing Culture Week and leading a multilingual legacy project, Eman has helped build appreciation of diversity within her school. She sees leadership as an opportunity to unite others and turn differences into strengths.

Liam Reeve

Community: Wynyard

School: Wynyard Composite High School

Post-Secondary Plans: 
Liam will be attending the University of Saskatchewan, where he is enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Agriculture program.

Liam takes a well-rounded and highly committed approach to leadership, contributing across academics, athletics, the arts and community service. He balances a wide range of commitments with discipline.

Liam is deeply engaged in supporting those around him through mentorship, coaching and student leadership. He also gives back by performing piano at local care homes and contributing to fundraising initiatives, consistently seeking ways to make a positive impact in the community.

Mara Vogel

Community: Theodore

School: Yorkton Regional High School

Post-Secondary Plans: 
Mara will be attending Olds College, where she is enrolled in the Agricultural Management program.

Mara’s leadership is rooted in a strong sense of community and a willingness to step in wherever she’s needed. Growing up in a small-town environment, she has developed a deep appreciation for the role individuals play in bringing people together.

Whether volunteering at local fundraisers, mentoring young athletes or contributing through her involvement in 4-H, Mara consistently leads through action. She shares her skills, supports those around her and helps create an environment where community thrives.

Financial literacy

Building confident futures.

Investing in young people goes hand in hand with financial literacy. Explore the free workshops and resources we offer across Saskatchewan.

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