SUN WEST SCHOOL DIVISION NO. 207
Lucky Lake Student Recognized for Outstanding Achievements as a Leader

Olivia Netzel, a Grade 12 student at Lucky Lake School received the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal from the Honourable Russ Mirasty, Lt. Governor of Saskatchewan, at a ceremony in Saskatoon on January 23. Olivia was recognized for her outstanding achievements as a community leader.

Pictured above: Lucky Lake student Olivia Netzel (right) receiving the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal from the Honourable Russ Mirasty, Lt. Governor of Saskatchewan.

The Queen's Platinum Jubilee Medal honours Queen Elizabeth II's commitment to service and pays tribute to Saskatchewan citizens who have devoted their time and effort to serving others in Canada, Saskatchewan and their communities. Saskatchewan residents were invited to nominate individuals they believed had made significant contributions to their communities and several thousand of these medals have been awarded around the province. Olivia was nominated by the Honourable Don Morgan, Minister Responsible for Saskatchewan Crown Corporations and Member of the Legislature for Saskatoon Southeast.

In his nomination, Minister Morgan recognized Olivia for her amazing work organizing The Young Heroes Car Show. As Grade 10 student in 2021 Olivia was taking the Leaders 20 Course through the Sun West Distance Learning Centre and as her project in the class she initiated the Young Heroes Car Show, which required her to organize and get the support of classic car owners and Lucky Lake business and community leaders. Her efforts raised over $3500 for the Jim Pattison Children's Hospital. The following year when she organized a second car show, she exceeded her earlier effort by bringing in $5000.

Click here to learn about the first Young Heroes Car Show.

Minister Morgan explained why he nominated Olivia stating: "It was wonderful to see a young person showing initiative and creating and hosting a community event that raised money for a wonderful cause. The Jim Pattison Children's Hospital Foundation is one of the province's most worthy organizations. Olivia arranged a car show and street fair, which takes a tremendous amount of work and I was extremely proud to be able to make this nomination."

Olivia, who is one of the youngest people to receive one of these medals said that even though she knew she was being nominated "I didn't expect it! I am extremely grateful to be nominated."

She explained: "It was definitely an honour to receive this medal," and she added "it really encourages me to keep doing this work." She has already started planning for the third Young Heroes Car Show, which is scheduled for May 28.

There is no question that Olivia is already made a big impact in her community and in the province. She has big plans for her future as well. She will be going to the University of Saskatchewan after graduation to pursue a Bachelor of Science and Agriculture with the eventual goal of becoming a Veterinarian.

Congratulations Olivia and thank you for your leadership!