This year’s winners are extraordinary young people who demonstrated success in their studies and contributed time and energy to make their communities better places. We congratulate all the winners on their academic and other accomplishments to-date and wish them continued success in their chosen field of studies.
Paige Babakaiff
Paige’s parent is Carolyn Babakaiff, Director, Strategic Human Resources at the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction.
Paige is entering her second year at the University of Lethbridge. After her first year, Paige was encouraged to pursue a degree in Urban and Regional Studies due to her high geography grades, and she began the program in the fall of 2024. Paige volunteers in a variety of activities in the university’s New Student Orientation Program. She coached minor soccer and volunteered at the Grand Forks International Ball tournament in her hometown.
Isabelle Canete
Isabelle’s parent is Jerome Canete, Manager, Clinical Knowledge Base and Decision Support in HealthLinkBC at the Ministry of Health. Jerome has been a BCEEA member for four years.
Isabelle is enrolled in her first year at Corpus Christi College, demonstrating academic success in the Associate of Arts Degree program. She intends to transfer to a Bachelor of Art program at either the University of British Columbia or Simon Fraser University next year. Isabelle’s drive to achieve is evidenced in her high school career where her grades were consistently above 90%, as well as in her leadership as Senior Yearbook editor and member of the school Advisory Committee as well as a leader in youth and community programs and her church.
Grayson Lushcer
Grayson’s parent is John Luscher, Director of Business Management, Organizational Capacity, Culture and Communications Branch at the Ministry of Citizens’ Services. John has been a member of the BCEEA for six years.
Grayson is a first-year student at the University of Victoria, working on a Bachelor of Commerce degree. Grayson is a talented soccer player who had to make a difficult decision between playing university soccer at Medicine Hat College or pursuing his academic interests. He chose to follow his academic goals. Grayson continues to be a licensed referee and coach and plays on the Gorge Soccer Association U21 team. Grayson also continues to grow his leadership skills through volunteer work with his church, providing a range of services to those in need.