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Good evening everyone,
I am pleased to join you for this presentation of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.
Since becoming governor general, I have had the privilege of meeting hundreds of young recipients of The Award in cities across Canada. Hearing of their achievements and dreams has inspired me throughout my mandate.
Wherever we see young people, we also see hope and the desire to change things for the better. And in fact, you are already making an impact on our country. That is what brought you here today.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is a wonderful tribute to the talent and determination of youth. In Canada alone, more than 500,000 youth have been recognized by this honour—which means you are now part of a massive network of remarkable Canadians!
Young people today are coming of age in transformative times, marked by rapid change and shifting demographics. But you are also 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.
Seeing you here today and hearing of your accomplishments, I know that our confidence is well placed.
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.
