Burnaby’s Byrne Creek Community School was front and centre at the Scotiabank & United Way Community Spirit Awards last week.
Principal David Starr and Grade 12 student Margaret Anteros were featured guest speakers, and the Byrne Creek Jazz combo and Dance Company provided entertainment.
Anteros, who arrived in Burnaby as a refugee from South Sudan with her mother and five siblings at age six, spoke about her experiences and the importance of giving back to the community that helped her thrive.
“I believe that everyone is a hero and can save the world,” she said. “I work hard so everyone the opportunities they need to become game changers and social innovators.”
Anteros is the president of the African Dream Club at her school, raising money to ensure clean water in South Sudan. She co-founded the school’s Social Justice League and the Girls Leadership Group, which helps girls transition from elementary to high school with positive role models.
Anteros also volunteers at Burnaby Neighbourhood House and with More Sports Canada.
The United Way has provided funding for a number of programs that helped Anteros’s family find its feet in Canada, including Byrne Creek Community School and Burnaby Neighbourhood House.
United Way raised $26.5 million for Lower Mainland programs last year.
In 2013/14, the organization invested $1.6 million in Burnaby programs and services.
