The Indigenous Student Association (ISA) at Pauline Johnson Collegiate and Vocational School in Brantford has been recognized with the 2025 YMCA Peace Medal in the youth category, one of three awards presented at this year’s YMCA Hamilton|Burlington|Brantford Peace Medal Breakfast.
The ISA, a student-led group centred on Truth and Reconciliation, was acknowledged for its work in promoting cultural understanding, strengthening community connections, and supporting Indigenous students within the school and the wider community.
Open to all students, the association leads programming that uplifts Indigenous voices and encourages shared learning.
One of its signature initiatives is the Every Child Matters football game, which brings together students, elders, performers, and community partners to honour Residential School survivors and highlight Indigenous culture.
ISA members also organize workshops, fundraisers, peer-support activities, and outreach for visiting Grade 7 and 8 students from Six Nations.
All programming is volunteer-driven and developed in collaboration with student councils, local services, and Indigenous performers.
This year marked the 38th edition of the YMCA Peace Medal Breakfast, held annually as part of YMCA Peace Week to recognize individuals and groups who demonstrate a sustained commitment to peace-building in their communities.
The awards honour contributions made without the benefit of special status, resources, or influence.
Manny Figueiredo, President and CEO of YMCA Hamilton|Burlington|Brantford, said this year’s recipients represent the impact of local leadership.
“Their remarkable efforts, whether in local advocacy, youth leadership, or international collaboration, show us what’s possible when we work together,” he noted in the YMCA’s announcement.
The YMCA also presented Peace Medals in the adult and international categories.
Jamie Kozub of Burlington received the adult award for his work co-founding Burlington Dads, a not-for-profit group that has raised more than $1 million for local charities.
Patricia Gagic of Hamilton received the international award for her global peace-building efforts in Haiti, Cambodia, and Nepal through initiatives supporting education, cultural preservation, and community development.
The YMCA also acknowledged this year’s nominees, which included Gustavo Rymberg, Mamas4Palestine, Abbie Postma, Drew Beaupre, the Knights Fighting Cancer at St. Thomas More Secondary School, Tyler Thompson, and Muhammad Hayat Khan Mahsood.
