Toronto, ON – On Friday, November 15, 2024, while the city buzzed with excitement over Swift Mania, a different kind of celebration was taking place at The Yorkville Royal Sonesta Hotel, where over 400 guests gathered for From the Hands of the Children Art Exhibit and Awards Gala. The event, hosted by The Children’s Breakfast Clubs, brought together students, parents, teachers, dignitaries, and community leaders to celebrate the creative talents of young artists and recognize the next generation of leaders.

This year’s theme, “The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms,” inspired students from Grades 4 to 8 across Ontario to submit diverse visual artworks, including paintings, drawings, photography, and poetry. Each piece captured the students’ unique interpretation of the Charter, highlighting their creativity and insight.

Special guests included The Honourable Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, MP Julie Dabrusin, MPP Tom Rakocevic, Councillor Brad Bradford, Zanana Akande, Toronto Police Superintendent LeeAnn Papizewski, Staff Superintendent Brett Nicol, and Interim Fire Chief Larry Cocco.

The highlight of the night was the People’s Choice Awards, where two outstanding students received special recognition:

  • First Place People’s Choice Award: The winning student was named “Chief of Police for the Day,” including a tour of Toronto Police Headquarters, lunch with the Chief of Police, and a special keepsake gift.
  • Second Place People’s Choice Award:  Another deserving student was named “Chief of Fire for the Day,” granting them the unique experience of stepping into the shoes of a fire chief and envisioning themselves as a future leader.

Both award recipients will enjoy a memorable day shadowing key figures in public service, fostering their aspirations and reinforcing the importance of leadership and community engagement.

“We are incredibly proud of all the students who participated in this event,” said Rick Gosling, President of The Children’s Breakfast Clubs. “Their creativity, hard work, and dedication are a testament to the bright future we have in our community. We are excited to see where their talents and passions will lead them.”

Media Contact:
Rick Gosling, President of The Children’s Breakfast Clubs
Phone: 416-305-3007
Email: rickgosling@breakfastclubs.ca

About The Children’s Breakfast Clubs
For over 30 years, The Children’s Breakfast Clubs has been committed to providing nutritious meals, educational opportunities, and emotional support to children and youth across Southern Ontario. Serving over 420,000 meals during the 2023-2024 school year in more than 34 communities, the organization offers a welcoming and stable environment for children to thrive. With the support of community partners, sponsors, and volunteers, The Children’s Breakfast Clubs continue to empower young minds and foster positive change in the community. For more information, visit breakfastclubs.com or follow us on Instagram @childrensbreakfastclubs.

Click here for photos of the event.

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