The Award is 

A marathon, not a sprint

The Award cannot be completed quickly. It’s all about sustaining an ongoing commitment in activities of choice, perseverance, and developing good habits. It takes commitment to see it through and earn something over the long term.  Efforts are recognized over time and the achievement is a young person’s own improvement.

Non- academic and non competitive

The Award is a personal challenge which recognizes that there are a lot of aspects to a well-rounded person, including achievements outside the classroom. Anyone who puts in the effort will receive the Award, so youth can collaborate with peers instead of competing with them. The Award is based on personal choice and reflects the abilities and interests of individual participants. No two Awards are alike!

Flexible

The Award offers a framework for youth to focus their interests, improve their abilities and do something they’ve always wanted to do. Young people enter The Award at the level that best suits them and choose activities that fit in with their life. Young people may take as long as they wish to complete an Award, as long as it is completed by their 25th Birthday. 

Progressive

As youth grow, The Award grows with them. At Bronze they may need a lot of help. At Silver, they are more independent. By Gold they build their own experience.

Fun

The Award is fun. The activities that a young person selects reflect their own interests and passions.  Also doing The Award great way to spend time with friends and making memories that will last forever.

Benefits of our Framework 

Open to everyone

Any young person aged 14-24 can do The Award, no matter their gender, cultural background, religious or political affiliation or physical ability. An Award is gained through individual improvement and achievement, which means that disadvantaged young people and those with special needs are able to participate fully! 

Great on applications

Having the Award looks great on CVs, resumes, post-secondary applications, and scholarships. Whether applying for post-secondary or about to enter the work force, The Award shows commitment and achievement, as well as dedication to a variety of activities. It also gives young people an opportunity to talk about themselves and their passions outside of their formal education.​ 

It's a process, not a prize

The Award is a process of personal and social development; the activities which make up the Award are a means to this end. Young people learn from the new experiences they have and discover hidden capabilities and talents.