Five local teenagers were recognized for their dedication to community service as the Slave Lake Rotary Club presented its Top 5 Under 20 awards on June 5.

According to the Rotary Club website, the annual program celebrates young people who demonstrate initiative, leadership and a commitment to making a positive difference in the community through volunteer work. The Rotary Club says the awards recognize teens whose efforts have had a meaningful impact on the lives of others.

Nominations for the awards are accepted each year through online and paper applications.

This year’s recipients were recognized for their contributions to sports, faith-based programs, multicultural events and neighbourhood support.

The Rotary Club provided The Leader with the reasons behind the nominations of the five teenage award recipients.

Ali Kahwaji

Ali Kahwaji was recognized for his volunteer work with Slave Lake Minor Soccer Association, where he serves as a junior coach.

Over the past year, Kahwaji assisted coaches with the U5, U7 and U13 teams, helping young players develop their skills and confidence on the field. His commitment to the sport and willingness to support younger athletes made him a valuable mentor within the organization.

Kahwaji also inspired fellow players and coaches through his athletic accomplishments, including earning a spot on Team Alberta North for the Arctic Winter Games. His leadership led to him being invited to coach the U9 team during the fall and winter seasons, while also assisting with the U13 program.

Ryan Baalbaki

Ryan Baalbaki was honoured for his dedication as a junior coach with Slave Lake Minor Soccer Association.

During the spring season, Baalbaki volunteered with the U5 and U7 teams before expanding his role to help coach the U11 and U13 groups in the fall. Organizers say he consistently created a fun and positive environment for young athletes while helping them learn the fundamentals of the game.

In addition to coaching, Baalbaki regularly arrived early to assist with setup and stayed afterward to help clean up. His respectful attitude and willingness to help wherever needed made him a role model for younger players.

His commitment to coaching has continued to grow, and he has taken coach training courses in hopes of taking on an even larger role within the soccer association.

Mohamed Mourad

Mohamed “Moe” Mourad was recognized for volunteering as a junior coach during Slave Lake Minor Soccer Association’s fall and winter sessions.
Known for his positive attitude and sportsmanship, Mourad became a role model for many of the young athletes he coached.

Organizers noted that he consistently treated players with respect and encouraged them to believe in their abilities.

His feedback and guidance were especially valued by players in the U13 division, many of whom looked up to him as both an athlete and mentor.

By celebrating each player’s progress and accomplishments, Mourad helped build confidence among the youth he worked with and encouraged them to strive for success both on and off the field.

Aryan Reddy

Aryan Reddy’s volunteer efforts extend beyond the soccer field.

As a junior coach with Slave Lake Minor Soccer, Reddy works closely with younger players, helping them develop individual skills while emphasizing teamwork and sportsmanship.

Organizers praised his patience, kindness and ability to connect with children.

Reddy is also an active volunteer with the Slave Lake Multicultural Association.

He assists with setting up and taking down events, arranging tables and chairs, and often serves as a cashier during community gatherings.

In addition to his formal volunteer work, Reddy regularly helps seniors in his neighbourhood and is known for being dependable and responsible whenever assistance is needed.

Elizabeth Wood

Elizabeth Wood was recognized for her leadership and dedication at St. Peter’s Ecumenical Church, where she works with children every Sunday morning.

Wood leads the church’s junior congregation, helping plan and deliver lessons for young members.

Organizers say she often takes on these responsibilities independently and consistently provides guidance and support to the children in her care.

Her efforts have been instrumental in helping relaunch the church’s Sunday school program. Through her commitment and leadership, she has become a positive role model for younger children and an example of service within the community.

Those who nominated Wood highlighted her reliability and dedication, noting that she can always be counted on to show up and support the program week after week.

Julia Magsombol
Lakeside Leader