Emma Smith, a PhD student in the Rehabilitation Sciences program, has received one of 41 Sovereign’s Medals for Volunteers. The national volunteering award recognizes the exceptional volunteer achievements of Canadians from across the country in a wide range of fields.
“I’m very honoured and I’m feeling a bit humbled. I believe so strongly in the importance of contributing to your community, whether it is locally, nationally, or globally, in whatever way you can. For younger people, while we might not have the means to contribute financially, we have time and talent, which are incredibly valuable,” Smith says.
She began volunteering for Forum for Young Canadians in 2006 and since that time, has been working for a wide range of organizations across the country and abroad, including the Mainland British Columbia Military Family Resource Centre, Team Canada Healing Hands, and the Vancouver Resource Society for the Physically Disabled.
Canada’s Governor General Julie Payette will present the award to Smith today during the ceremony at Rideau Hall.