Downsview, for the week of April 17th, your Student of the Week is Vashana S.
Vashana is in the eleventh grade.

Leaders come in a variety of styles. Some have big, bold personalities, some are more quiet. Some lead by example, through their actions, and might not view themselves as leaders. Let’s hear more about the leadership style of our Student of the Week, Vashana.

First, from Mr Wallace: “Vashana is a doer. She commits to something and delivers. Black Brilliance, Student Athletic Council, and much more. By being a doer, she is a great ally. All of us have visions of what might be; some of us take those visions and make them real. Vashana is one such person. She does not draw attention to herself, but when you stop to see how many good things are happening in this school, Vashana is often helping to make it happen.”

Hear this, from Ms Reid: “When I think of a quiet leader with a posture of grace, charisma, diligence, and an ability to effortlessly earn the respect of their peers, Vashana comes to mind. Vashana is deeply grounded, humbled, and is incredibly cooperative. Vashana’s ability to lead by example in a calm and confident manner is a true testament to her personal competence and self-determination skills. Heartiest congratulations on winning Student of the Week, Vashana! You are beyond deserving of this distinguished acknowledgement."

Silvana says: “Vashana, congrats on this well-deserved recognition. Vashana, you are a quiet leader who is determined and focused and always willing to support students and making DSS an inclusive space. Thanks for being you and making DSS the place it is, I’m so proud of you.”

Ms Susnik adds: “Vashana is a solid student leader who involves herself with all aspects of school life.  She keeps an open mind and always listens.  Vashana took on the new position of athletic coordinator for SAC this year and has blossomed in her duties and responsibilities. It is an absolute pleasure working with Vashana.  Congratulations on being Student of the Week.”

Hear this, from Mr Hum: “Vashie is a very well-rounded individual who has her hands in some many different initiatives. Those who know Vashie, know her as a friendly, outgoing individual with a great sense of humour. Congratulations on Student of the Week. It's well-deserved. Keep doing what you're doing, Vashie!”

Mr Pasian notes that Vashana is “polite, courteous, and participates in class always.” He also appreciates her strong interest in mathematics.

And finally, hear this from Mr Lewin: “Vashana is a humble, reflective and genuine  leader who values the power of community service and educational excellence. Vashana is in grade 11 and she is an integral part of Downsview's Africentric program. Since grade 9, Vashana  has  exhibited a commendable determination to obtain top grades. She has also left an indelible imprint on the very fabric of the Downsview school community through her involvement  in a number of co-curricular activities that are rooted in equity, social justice and global citizenship, including Black Brilliance, Law in Action within Schools, Peer Tutoring and High Five Training. Vashana, you embody the virtue of compassion through your words   and deeds. Keep on being your true authentic self in everything that you do both now and in the future. Ashe ( So shall it be)!”

Vashana, you heard it here. You are a valued member of the Downsview community, and we thank you. Congratulations on this, your second win as Student of the Week.