Week of November 14th, 2022

Ezgi O.

Downsview, for the week of November 14th, it is a pleasure to announce that Ezgi is your Student of the Week. Ezgi is in the twelfth grade at Downsview.

Let’s get straight to the praise for Ezgi. From Mr. Wallace: Ezgi is a high achieving student who knows exactly what kind of opportunity she has in Canada and is not going to let it go. Her gender and ethnicity back home would have shut all kinds of doors that are open for her in Canada. Downsview was the first door to open, and she is launching herself as high as her ambition will take her. But the path she has been on since she arrived has not been easy. From knowing little English to writing and speaking fluently in a few short years is amazing, but the real essence of what Ezgi is achieving is her willingness to take risks. To open her mouth and speak, to step into leadership with Tools of Possibility, to join soccer and volleyball all require courage when everything she has been told in the past was to stay still and stay quiet. But the biggest act of courage is to silence the doubt that whispers in her ear: "is this real? Do I deserve this freedom, this chance at living a fulfilling life?" The answer, Ezgi, is yes. Yes you do.

From Mr. Ramnaraine: “Three years ago, Ezgi entered our school community. Not a word of English and no one to translate for her. Three years later, Ezgi does the translating for us now. She has given up a lot of her time to support not only her peers but to the many newcomer students that have entered our doors. I see Ezgi everyday in the library during her spare. She works hard, is motivated and cares deeply about her circle of friends and the greater Downsview Community. Congratulations on achieving Student of the Week!

Ms. Silvana says: “Ezgi is a polite young woman always considerate of others. She is often seen helping others in the school. Ezgi keep being the amazing kind person you are!!!!

And from Ms. Persaud: “Ezgi is a hardworking student who is committed to doing her best--both academically and personally. In addition, she maintains a positive attitude and is always willing to help her peers. Congratulations on earning Student of the Week!”

Hear what Mr. Phillips has to say: “Ezgi is a highly dedicated student! She was an instrumental student leader in the Tools of Possibility Conference held here at Downsview. She is also a stellar student who goes the extra mile to thoroughly understand all aspects of her studies. Well deserved Ezgi. Congrats to you on student of the week!”

Mr. Lewin says: Ezgi is an honour roll student scholar who is a passionate and committed leader within the Downsview school community . She is determined to be a positive agent of change. Ezgi epitomizes the very best of Downsview. She is always willing to lend help to those who are in need. Egzi's exemplary leadership was on full display at the soon to be annual Tools of Possibilities Conference at Downsview. She played an instrumental role in helping to lead the Astronomy workshop. Ezgi,continue to inspire us all through your hard work, compassion, and lifelong commitment to excellence.

And lastly from Ms. de Jersey who is currently on leave: “When Ezgi joined the crew of Breakfast Club volunteers last year, I was happy to have her, but a little hesitant - we had a full crew at the time, and I wasn't sure she'd have enough to do. Honestly, it's like Ezgi's spidey-senses were up. She was SO needed. Learning at lightning speed, quietly, but keenly observing and finding spaces that needed her attention, Ezgi made a home for herself there immediately. Ezgi is smart, determined and kind. I am honoured to know her and thrilled for her win.”

Ezgi, looking back on these tributes to you, it’s easy to see the reasons for your win. Thoughtful, determined,intellectually curious and goal-minded. Congratulations again, Ezgi, on achieving the title: Student of the Week.