Forty young educators, health care providers, artists, volunteers, researchers and entrepreneurs were honoured Thursday at a ceremony at Sudbury’s Caruso Club.
The 40 individuals, all under the age of 40, were recognized for their contributions to the community at Sudbury’s fourth 40 Under Forty event.
“When you see the different skills they’re bringing to our community it’s actually hopeful,” said Patricia Mills, the publisher of Northern Ontario Business, which organized the event along with co-presenter Vale. “It’s hopeful that our future is in the hands of these young people.”
Mills said many small communities focus on the exodus of their young people, but with the 40 Under Forty Award Northern Ontario Business wanted to recognize the many contributions young people have made in Sudbury.
More than 500 people attended the event at the Caruso Club to pay tribute to Sudbury’s young leaders.
Shannon Katary, the director of marketing and community relations with the Centre for Excellence in Mining Innovation (CEMI), and one of the 40 Under Forty winners, said the event was a chance to meet other young leaders in different fields.
“I’m actually quite inspired by the people who are here tonight,” she said.
Katary said she loves that her job allows her to by a cheerleader for CEMI’s latest projects. “We get to be part of the most innovative technologies of our time,” she said.
“It’s a wonderful story to tell.”
Nadim Kara, Science North's director of organizational development, said it was a pleasure to be a recipient for the 40 Under Forty award.
“I think what this 40 Under Forty does is it recognizes that next generation of people who are going to be the leaders who will drive our community forward,” he said.
Kara moved to Sudbury from Toronto four years ago, and said more people in the province should be aware of Sudbury's potential.
“If more people in Toronto knew what a beautiful gem Sudbury is, they would all be moving up here,” he said.
Don Duval, the CEO of Norcat and a 40 Under Forty recipient Thursday, also moved to Sudbury from Toronto.
“It has been an absolute pleasure so far,” Duval said about his experience in the Nickel City.
He said he was humbled by the recognition Thursday as a relative newcomer to Sudbury.
“It's energizing to see people who care about what they do and care to make an impact and contribution to their community.”
Visit www.40underforty.ca to view this year’s winners profiles.
