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Burnaby, British Columbia, Friday, June 2, 2017
It’s wonderful to be here at the Ismaili Centre for this presentation of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.
I’ve had the privilege of meeting with many young recipients of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in cities across Canada. I’m so pleased to see such a diverse group of young people here today. You represent this country and all we can achieve together.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is a wonderful tribute to the talent and determination of youth. Wherever we see young people, we also see hope and the desire to change things for the better.
You are coming of age in transformative, exciting times. And you are a vital source of ideas, renewal and optimism for our society. Your energy and contributions are essential to the smarter, more caring nation that we aspire to build.
This year, we celebrate the 150th anniversary of Confederation. It’s a remarkable milestone and an opportunity to reflect on how far we’ve come.
But as you know, the future is not pre-determined.
We can take nothing for granted.
It’s up to us to build the future of which we dream.
What makes this milestone anniversary extra special is the involvement of people like you who love Canada, who want to be active in making this country a better place.
As you accept the award you have so deservedly earned, I leave you with a question: how will you use your experience with The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award to make this country a better place to live?
This is a prestigious award. As recipients, you now have a new responsibility to act as ambassadors, and to dedicate yourselves anew to contributing to Canada.
You have already shown yourselves to be conscientious and engaged citizens. I have no doubt that you will continue to give back to your communities for many years to come.
Your continued efforts are critical to our future.
On behalf of all Canadians, I thank and congratulate each of you on your achievements.
Keep going.
Don’t give up.
Canada, and the world, need your talent, your imagination and your generosity.
Thank you.