Vancouver, Wednesday, February 15, 2012

I am pleased to be here today for this presentation of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.  

Since becoming governor general, it has been my privilege to meet hundreds of young recipients of these awards in cities across Canada. Hearing of their achievements and dreams has inspired me, and it has reminded me that the country we seek is a goal, not a given.

Wherever we see young people, we also see hope and the desire to change things for the better. And in fact, you are already making an impact on our country. That is what brought you here today.

I am particularly pleased to congratulate the Achievers in this room who have attained their Gold Award, and who together represent 23 communities from across British Columbia. Each of you has worked hard to create your own experience and achieve success, and I encourage you to share your stories with others.  

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is a wonderful tribute to the talent and determination of youth. In Canada alone, more than 500,000 youth have been recognized by this honour—which means you are now part of a massive network of remarkable Canadians!

Young people today are coming of age in transformative times, marked by rapid change and shifting demographics. Your example reminds us that we must be innovative and bold in finding solutions, while striving to enhance the best of our traditions. Above all you demonstrate that we must work together if we are to succeed.

The youth of this country are a vital source of ideas and renewal for our society. Seeing you here today and hearing of your accomplishments, I know that our confidence is well-placed.

In 2017, Canadians will celebrate their 150th anniversary as a nation, and I want to invite you to imagine the kind of country you want to live in as we approach this milestone. Our unique Confederation was the result of years of careful planning and consideration of the true nature of our society, as well as an opportunity for our forebears to dream of the future.

Similarly, I think that our approaching 150th birthday is a perfect occasion to imagine and to plan for the future.

One thing is certain: your energy and contributions are essential to the smarter, more caring nation to which we aspire.

And on behalf of all Canadians, I thank and congratulate each of today’s Award recipients on your achievements.

Your energy and your contributions are essential to the smarter, more caring Canada of which we dream.

Thank you.