The CMCCF Social Justice Youth Award is granted to an individual or a group who are making positive change for communities, either locally or beyond!
The award celebrates the remarkable achievements of young people between the ages of 15 and 21 from diverse cultural backgrounds who are leading with bravery, curiosity, intelligence, and empathy.
We wish to recognize those who are making small, incremental, and often invisible changes in areas that matter to them, such as arts, culture, faith, and community, while also creating safe and comfortable spaces within their own cultural communities.
These young leaders are deeply committed to social justice and community building, and are creating more equitable, diverse, and inclusive communities where everyone feels a sense of belonging. They are not just creating change in their communities but also within their own families, with their friends and neighbours, and in new cultural communities.
We believe that by recognizing and celebrating these young people, we can inspire others to get involved in creating positive change in their own communities, and to build a better world for all, not through government or institutions, but through the power of families and cultural communities.
Have you contributed to Social Justice in your community?
Social justice is a complex and multifaceted concept that involves addressing power imbalances and works towards a more equitable distribution of resources and opportunities for all individuals and communities. It is important to understand that social justice is not just about creating equal opportunities, but also about recognizing and addressing the ways in which systems and structures may perpetuate oppression and marginalization.
Though complex and difficult, it is important to acknowledge that everyone has a role to play in working towards social justice. It requires critical self-reflection and a willingness to learn and grow. It also involves being open to hearing and understanding the perspectives of marginalized communities, and acting to make changes in one’s own life and in the broader community.
It’s also important to recognize that social justice is not a one-time event, but a constant work in progress, and it’s ongoing. It’s a process that requires individuals and communities to continuously reflect, learn, and adapt in order to create a more just and equitable society.
Who is sponsoring this award?
The Coalition of Manitoba Cultural Communities for Families Inc. is a diverse, collaborative network of individuals and community-based organizations united to promote the well-being of Manitoba cultural communities.
The inaugural awards in 2024 saw an incredibly diverse range of young people apply.
Please follow the link below to learn more about the 2024 winner and candidates of merit.