Despite being just 18 years old, Blythe Wieclawek is a true leader and role model for all age groups.
The Oro-Medonte native — who graduated from Twin Lakes Secondary School at the top of her class — has dedicated over 400 hours to volunteering at various places in the community.
She is especially passionate about environmental sustainability and was president of the Sustainable Orillia Youth Council for two years. During her time there, she was responsible for spearheading the Sustainable Simcoe Youth Conference, a one-day event that offered leadership and learning opportunities for local youth.
“This is an honour. It means a lot and I’m very grateful for it,” Blythe said when she was told the news about her Community Builders Award win.
“There are so many people that do a lot for our community. So being selected as a recipient among great people definitely means a lot,” she said.
“It was awesome to get youth voices involved and encourage young people to get involved in this vibrant community. I loved working with the City of Orillia and everyone on the Sustainable Orillia board,” she added. “It was such a rewarding experience.”
But her volunteerism and advocacy for climate change aren’t the only things that make Blythe an outstanding community member.
She is currently a first-year student at Harvard University and a member of their NCAA women’s swimming and diving team. This accomplishment came after years of practice, being a member of the Orillia Channel Cats Swim Club for almost a decade. Blythe has competed on the provincial and national level and even qualified for Olympic Trials at just 14 years old.
“Blythe regularly conducts herself with integrity and has always been respectful of her coaches and teammates. She works well with others and is a true team player,” said Meredith Thompson-Edwards, head coach of the Orillia Channel Cats Swim Club. “She has developed into a strong leader over the years.”
She hopes to continue excelling in her studies and sport and doing things she's passionate about in the future.
“I’m currently a candidate for a degree in neuroscience, so I’m hoping to continue enjoying that,” she shared.
She is an inspiration for other young women in the community and proves that anything is possible with hard work and dedication.
The Young Leader Award is presented to an individual or group under the age of 25 who is actively involved in worthwhile community service and shows a commitment to making the community a better place for others.
Congratulations, Blythe!
This award is proudly sponsored by Orillia Home Hardware Building Centre.
