Recipients of YMCA Peace Medal Breakfast 2023 Announced

The YMCA Hamilton|Burlington|Brantford announces the recipients of the YMCA Peace Medal Breakfast, an event held during YMCA Peace Week to honour those who have made significant contributions to peace, community cohesion, and social justice. 

“Each year, the YMCA Peace Medal Breakfast pays tribute to individuals and groups in our community who serve as beacons of inspiration, uniting us in our collective efforts to shape a more harmonious world,” said Manny Figueiredo, President & CEO of YMCA Hamilton|Burlington|Brantford. 

Congratulations to the 2023 YMCA Peace Medal Recipients: 

1. Cathedral High School – The Annex, Hamilton: The Cathedral Annex program, initiated in 2003, has been awarded the Peace Medal for its remarkable dedication to addressing the needs of students and families in a neighbourhood marked by income disparity and challenges. Providing essential support such as food, clothing, school supplies, and household items, all free of charge, the program has become a symbol of hope in Hamilton. Its commitment to sustainability, collaborative partnerships, and its impact on graduation rates and community cohesion make it a beacon of inspiration.

2. North Park Collegiate School – Student Anti-Racism Coalition (SARC), Brantford: The North Park Collegiate SARC has been recognized for its outstanding efforts in promoting diversity, inclusion, and combating racism within the school community. Through a series of impactful initiatives and weekly meetings, they have successfully created a safe and open space for students to engage in conversations about sensitive issues and foster cross-cultural understanding. 

3. Serena Bufalino, Hamilton: Serena Bufalino has been awarded the YMCA Peace Medal for her global impact through initiatives such as the Haiti School Building Project, Yoga for Haiti, and her work with Help Heal Humanity. Her unwavering commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable populations worldwide is truly remarkable. Serena's collaborative approach and dedication to driving positive change have been an inspiration to all. 

The YMCA Hamilton|Burlington|Brantford also extends its congratulations to all nominees, including: 

4. Hamilton Public Library, Hamilton  
5. Narine Dat Sookram, Brantford  
6. Patricia Reid, Hamilton 
7. St. Thomas More Catholic Secondary School - Knights Fighting Cancer, Hamilton  

Figueiredo expressed gratitude to the nominees, dedicated volunteers, generous sponsors, dignitaries, and guests who attended the YMCA Peace Medal Breakfast, adding, “A special thank you to our inspiring keynote speaker, Jesse Thistle, author of From the Ashes, whose powerful words and personal journey left us with a profound sense of reflection and hope for a brighter future.”  

For a complete list of nominees, recipients, categories, and profiles, please visit the Peace Medal YMCA website (www.ymcapeacemedal.ca). 

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About YMCA Peace Week 

The YMCA views peace as more than just the absence of war; it encompasses recognizing basic human rights and fulfilling basic human needs. Since 1984, Canadian YMCAs have observed YMCA Peace Week in November, engaging people of all ages in exploring peace locally and globally. This week-long event unites YMCA Associations, international partners, and numerous schools and community organizations in our shared mission to foster a more just and peaceful world.