Winners

Joud Alhilal is a dedicated volunteer whose contributions span both research and community service. At the McGill University Health Centre’s CommiSur Lab, she has played a key role in research on patient-centered care and AI ethics. Her professionalism and thoughtful interactions with patients and families have made a lasting impact. Additionally, Joud volunteers with the Friendship Circle, providing friendship and support to children and teens with special needs. Her empathy, responsibility, and commitment make her an invaluable asset to every team she joins.

Vanda Lecchino, a passionate volunteer who has made a lasting impact on both the Teen Badminton Club and the LaSalle community. As a badminton coach and mentor, Vanda spearheads initiatives like "Leaves4Jerseys," where she organizes teens to raise funds by raking leaves for clients, as well as the biannual Adirondacks Hiking Trips, which foster leadership and physical fitness among participants. Vanda also serves as the treasurer and secretary of the Conseil Jeunesse, where she has played a key role in creating a comprehensive budget plan for the organization. In addition, she generously volunteers her time to prepare holiday food baskets for vulnerable families through the LaSalle Multicultural Resource Center. Vanda's dedication to her community and her ability to motivate others make her an invaluable volunteer.

Sang Ho Lee is an outstanding volunteer whose dedication has made a meaningful impact on both the Concordia and Montreal communities. His involvement spans across several organizations, including the Montreal ChangeMakers and East2West dance troupe, where he helps raise funds for Centraide. At Concordia, Sang Ho plays an active role in events such as the Engineering & Computer Science Career Fair, ConUHacks, and the Career Fair for Students with Disabilities. His leadership, problem-solving skills, and positive attitude have made him an invaluable asset to every initiative he joins. Sang Ho’s commitment to service, collaboration, and community-building exemplifies the very essence of volunteerism.

Hiral Kanara is an exceptional volunteer with a focus on healthcare, mental health, and student support. She contributed over 260 hours at the Montreal General Hospital, enhancing patient care through programs like Dialysis and ICU Bridge. As President of Stronger Than Stigma Concordia and Vice President of Logistics for MedSpecs Concordia, she organized events like the Health Networking Event to connect students with healthcare professionals. Hiral also revitalized the Foundation for Post Conflict Development’s website, demonstrating her technical skills. Her dedication and leadership make her an exemplary volunteer.

Breanna Pallante is a devoted volunteer who has made a lasting impact on the NDG and Montreal community. As the Administrative and Special Event Coordinator at Saint Raymond’s Community Centre, she leads initiatives such as clothing drives and food donations to support families in need. A passionate advocate for individuals with learning disabilities, Breanna is an ambassador for the Montreal Centre for Learning Disabilities, creating youth groups and sharing her story to inspire others. She also volunteers with "Together Against Violence" and local shelters. Balancing her studies, work, and volunteer efforts, Breanna is an exceptional role model.

Hexploit Alliance is a graduate student-led initiative at Concordia that organizes @HackCTF, Canada’s largest in-person cybersecurity competition. Founded in 2023, the group, made up of over 40 volunteers, offers a free, 24-hour event that helps students develop crucial cybersecurity skills in a supportive, educational environment. By making the event accessible to all, regardless of financial status, citizenship, or gender, Hexploit Alliance fosters inclusivity and empowers the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. The group also provides mentorship, career fairs, and cash prizes, creating a hub for cybersecurity talent across Canada.

Luke Quin, a Concordia graduate and staff member, has been a driving force behind the EPIC Used Book Fair since 2017. Under his leadership, the fair has raised more than $175,000 for student scholarships and bursaries, with a record $70,129 raised in 2024 alone. Luke expanded the fair's impact by promoting sustainability and building community connections, introducing two fairs in 2024 and establishing an endowment for student scholarships. His leadership and ability to connect with over 60 volunteers have made the fair a cherished annual tradition at Concordia, uniting students, faculty, and alumni in support of a great cause.