Maheen was recognized for leading the creation of Multi-Faith Rooms in schools across the district
Maheen Riaz, a Grade 12 student and Student Trustee with the Upper Canada District School Board (UCDSB), has received the Ontario Public Student Trustee Leadership Scholarship. The award, given by OPSBA and OSTA-AECO, honours student leaders making a real difference in Ontario schools.
Maheen was recognized for leading the creation of Multi-Faith Rooms in schools across the district. Her work began at Brockville Collegiate Institute, where she helped open a permanent space for students of all faiths to feel respected and safe.
Inspired by her own experiences, Maheen consulted equity workers, school leaders and peers. Her project sparked wider change, with more schools now working to follow her lead.
Maheen’s story shows how student voices can shape inclusive school policies. In the fall, she will study International Studies and Modern Languages at the University of Ottawa.
Her leadership is already leaving a lasting legacy.
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