“‘True north strong and free’ are the words deeply entrenched in our motto. Yet, one wonders, how free are the people within its borders!” This thought-provoking opening line begins Jameka’s thorough research report on Japanese internment camps in Canada, outlining the harassment and segregation experienced by Japanese people in this country. An in-depth outline provides the history of how thousands of Japanese Canadians had their lives uprooted and were imprisoned in camps far from their homes. Jameka presents her research with a great deal of emotion and an exceptional skill in storytelling. Through sharing the history of how Japanese Canadians were mistreated in the land they called their home, Jameka emphasizes the importance of keeping alive the memory of Canada’s unjust history.

Aaron explores a provocative baseball question: is it really America’s pastime? The research project begins with a theory that baseball may have been invented in Canada. An extensively researched resource, the chapters weave in Aaron’s own thoughts and experiences and present a deeply personal connection to baseball. The booklet includes illustrations by Aaron, which create a visually impressive and intimate reading experience. Do not miss chapter four, where Aaron outlines good years for Canadian baseball – 1992 and 1993! A helpful glossary at the end of the book is ideal for those new to the sport. A great commitment to baseball shines through every aspect of this book, as Aaron is destined to become a notable figure in Canadian baseball history!

Tajmim opens the magazine with a deeply personal message from the writer, noting experiences with Islamophobia, but also experiences with community support and love. This sets the stage for a comprehensive view on Islamophobia including a straightforward overview of Islam, myths, misconceptions and an in-depth explanation of the hijab. The reader is encouraged to reflect and amend their own biases and misbeliefs. The project is enhanced by the presentation of findings from interviews and a questionnaire created by Tajmim. The questionnaire's results are presented in a polished infographic with easy-to-understand statistics, while quotes from interviews provide a more nuanced perspective to the reader. A concluding segment in the magazine is a personal story of Tajmim’s own experiences wearing the hijab. Beautifully written, the magazine strikes a deeply emotional chord as a piece that advocates for a better, more just society that is free of hate.

Hala’s project on the historical Eldon House contains wonderfully creative elements, including fictional journal entries by John Harris, the founder of the Eldon House. The graphic design is both pleasing to the eye and easy-to-understand, depicting the timeline of the Eldon House and a family tree of those who called it home. Not only is the fascinating history of the Eldon House (including a ghost story!) provided, but readers can also enjoy a detailed history of London itself. The final feature is Hala’s own experience with the Eldon House, including a letter of thanks to the house’s staff and a short fiction novel based on the visit. The beautifully crafted project is sure to inspire future visitors to the Eldon House!

Katie presents a work of fiction based on the battle of Vimy Ridge, telling the story of a woman that could have been a soldier at the battle. The story begins by showcasing the strong feminist perspective with which the story is written: “Darling, I know you want to help your country but there are better people more equipped to. It would be best if you stayed and became a proper lady.” Katie breathes life into her characters, writing an engaging narrative interspersed with diary entries that tell the tale of battle. Katie shows a masterful grip on storytelling, combining thoughtfully written dialogue, imagery and diary entries to beautifully illustrate the story of a female soldier. Inspired by Canadian military history, the creative story displays Katie’s potential as an accomplished historical fiction author.

Jay’s project provides an overview of epidemics in Canada that is both comprehensive and incredibly creative, providing readers with both research and historical fiction. There is no doubt that many readers will connect to the feelings of worry that Jay’s well-written characters experience. The creative and informative infographics which accompany each writing piece remind us of the history that lies behind each story. Jay’s narrative seamlessly blends the experiences of the characters as well as historical facts, providing a gripping tale for readers while also educating them on Canada’s epidemics. Thorough research also connects the topic to modern issues and relates it to what Canada is experiencing today. An extremely talented writer, Jay brings history to light and characters to life in the absorbing narratives!

British Home Children, the topic of Hannah’s creative project, were children sent to Canada to decrease the number of homeless children in the United Kingdom. Hannah uses historical fiction to explore the lives of the often mistreated and abused children, creating a collection of letters exchanged between two sisters – one who had been sent to Canada because her family could not afford food. The letters are both beautiful and heartbreaking, providing an emotional depiction of the abuse, loss and loneliness that many child servants suffered under their Canadian families. An astonishing amount of detail is included in the letters, making their events feel unbelievably lifelike. Hannah has crafted a heartfelt narrative that showcases an impressive flair for writing and is sure to leave readers touched!

Keitlyn demonstrates an imaginative mind by weaving together the complex story of David Suzuki, a prominent environmental activist in Canada. In the collection and creation of artifacts representing Suzuki’s life, Keitlyn includes a beautiful book with certificates, protest signs and a detailed and extensive timeline on Suzuki’s life, all skillfully hand-crafted. One particularly unique artifact is “Creeping Charlie,” a plant sample in a jar that is reflective of how Suzuki would collect flora and fauna from the swamp. Readers will find the attention to detail astounding – and the inventive artifacts that accompany the project certainly enhance the experience!

A passion for the Canadian military can be felt throughout Ethan’s expertly crafted magazine. The articles within contain a wealth of information on the history of the Canadian military and an easy-to-read timeline, as well as a description of each war fought, major battles, and information on the growth of Canada’s military. Readers can immerse themselves in the interesting history of Canada’s soldiers, sailors and airmen with impressive detail on each specific group. Attention to detail and stunning design make this magazine a must-read for any military enthusiast. Ethan’s magazine is both impressively informative and unique, creating a marvelous resource to educate readers about the brave Canadians who have fought for this country.

Interested in brushing up on your Winter Olympics trivia? The creative and engaging magazine by Sophie includes a brief history, an outline of the winter sports and even features notable athletes from the London area! Sophie’s magazine is beautifully laid out, educating the reader on Canada and the Winter Olympics while simultaneously being extremely pleasing to the eye. A touching personal flair will inspire the reader as Sophie’s connection to Olympic athletes and personal experiences as a skater show her deep love of the winter sport. The last page of the magazine even includes a Winter Olympics crossword where you can test your new knowledge!

An extensive amount of research is expertly presented in Kyla’s project, which explores Canada’s role in the decarbonization of electric vehicles. The report communicates the importance of using electric cars over those that are gas-powered to reduce pollution and lower Canada’s carbon footprint. Kyla effectively enlightens readers about the ways Canada contributes to the decarbonization of electric vehicles. A carefully considered and brilliantly planned road trip is also depicted, cleverly including fun and interesting rest stops to go to when charging is needed! Kyla exhibits a strong passion to fight pollution and proves to be a strong voice in educating others on making environmentally friendly decisions.

Charlotte has brought to life a touching yet heartbreaking story, writing letters from the perspective of a Chinese labourer of the Canadian Pacific Railway. Charlotte draws attention to the hardships suffered by Chinese railway workers and their families and highlights the importance of telling the history of different cultures in Canada. Charlotte’s letters transport readers into the worker’s story – a harsh life in Canada looking for work to provide for his family. The emotional story reminds the reader that this tale is representative of the experience of countless exploited workers. With a thoughtful and beautiful narrative, Charlotte showcases the talent of a brilliant young writer!

Aarnav presents a detailed and creative set of resources on racism in Canada including an engaging YouTube-style video that traces the country’s history of racism all the way back to the Underground Railway. The video is skillfully edited and engaging, showcasing Aarnav’s talent as a video content creator. A notable resource is a remarkable book created to showcase Canadians of colour who have made a difference. Each activist is extensively researched, and the booklet itself has an aged, authentic feel. Aarnav’s creative and inspiring collection is a great resource for any aspiring activist – we are sure to see Aarnav as a future leader rallying for change!

In this engaging research project, Felix pushes the boundaries of creativity by writing a full seven-minute electronic dance music (EDM) song, with each musical segment inspired by a different EDM artist. The project details the musical style of each artist, including quotes and describing the theory behind their music creation. The song, written and recorded by Felix, evokes a wide range of emotion, at times upbeat, serene, or sending chills down the spine. Felix exhibits skill in creating a wide range of emotional music with this innovative and unique piece. A must-listen, this track no doubt deserves to be played in front of a crowd. Felix demonstrates vast musical talent – an EDM music producer in the making!