For two weeks in October 2006, the call went out. A Students' Assembly on Electoral Reform was being created and one student from every riding in the province – 103 in all – would be selected to participate in an unusual and history-making conference. We wanted to find young people who cared about the future of Ontario — who were interested in current affairs and public issues and who could represent the wide range of backgrounds, interests and ideas that make up our province.

So we called and they came -- some 460 applications, from Windsor, to Ottawa to Sioux Lookout. These weren't easy choices to make, but we're delighted to present:

The 103 Members of the Students' Assembly on Electoral Reform

Listed alphabetically by constituency

	Tiffany (Algoma--Manitoulin) I am in my final year at Manitoulin Secondary School. I grew up on Manitoulin Island, where there are not a lot of opportunities. Your goals in life are what drives you to make changes and encourages you to make sure you meet your goals. I am going into post-secondary education where I will receive a Bachelor of Arts, within the study of law or political science. To be confident within yourself is extraordinary, you are able to complete and perfect everything you set your mind to.
	Jessica (Ancaster--Dundas--Flamborough--Aldershot) At seventeen, I'm an outgoing person who likes to push herself. I love to get involved (I'm currently on my school's Student Council executive, DECA [a business and marketing club] executive, Debate Team, Ski-team, and doing a French-exchange) and to volunteer my time in my community. When school and extracurricular activities aren't keeping me too busy, I enjoy reading, being on the computer, "hanging-out", and playing pick-up sports with my friends.
	Amanda (Barrie--Simcoe--Bradford) Over the past year I have changed a lot. I have become more mature and decided to learn and try new things. Since then I have been much happier, I've been taking pride in the things I do, and accepting everyone for who they are, and trying to meet new people. I think this would be a very good experience for me. I want to learn about different cultures, and their beliefs I find things like this fascinate me. I'm a people person, and I don't normally get involved in things, so I find myself wanting this more then ever.
	Kyle (Beaches--East York) I am a student at Riverdale Collegiate in Toronto, Ontario. I'm a very involved student at my school. I have joined two clubs already and I'm helping them in competitions with the DECA club (marketing club) and I'm also heavily involved with the Law Society Club. I enjoy chilling with my friends and playing with them at videogames. I take a high interest in politics because it's what affects my life everyday and I feel that it's important for me to be aware of them.
	Rohit (Bramalea--Gore--Malton—Springdale) I am currently a grade 12 student at The Humberview Secondary.  I am currently undertaking mathematics, business, and world studies courses that will lead me to enter a suitable undergraduate program in the business field.  Out of school, I am involved with the federal and provincial youth wings of the Liberal Party.  Having done a lot of work during election campaigns, I hope I can use my experience to contribute constructive feedback to make a positive change to our electoral system.
	Sarah (Brampton Centre) Hi! I am currently in grade 12 at Central Peel Secondary School. I am very proud to say that I am graduating this year and going to start an apprenticeship to become an electrician. Some of my hobbies include religiously watching baseball, hockey and golf. I really like playing golf as well. I play in a lot of billiard tournaments and like a lot of competition. I work in retail and really enjoy working with people.
	Samir (Brampton West-- Mississauga) I am an IB student at Glenforest Secondary. I am an avid hockey, soccer and baseball player. I have led several leadership sessions at my school and community. I am an active volunteer and big brother in my community and like to coach young kids. I recently received awards for Academic Excellence at the ISTAR awards in Toronto and the Duke of Edinburgh Award (Silver level).
	Alyna (Brant) I am 13 and a grade eight student, but I will be entering high school in February. I have participated in many contests, most dealing with language or math. I love to read, my favorite subjects are history and math, and my hobbies include figure skating, writing, violin, and swimming. I am enthusiastic and I try to keep an open mind when it comes to the opinions of others. I work hard at everything and always try to give forth that little extra effort.
	Andrew (Bruce--Grey--Owen Sound) Andrew lives in Owen Sound, where he is a grade 12 student and artist, as well as a Student Senator with the Bluewater District School Board. He lives to change the world. He is deeply interested in social and political change, as well art and music. Andrew hopes the rest of your day is filled with beauty and wonder.
	Jonathan (Burlington) Jonathan is a Grade Eleven French Immersion Student at Burlington Central High School in Burlington, Ontario. He hopes to bring his passion for making a difference to the Students' Assembly – an aspect of his life shared with those in his school, church and community. "Our greatest fear is not that we are inadequate, but that we are powerful beyond measure." – Marianne Williamson Thanks to Mom, Dad, Nic, Xandra, teachers and friends for your continued support and encouragement.
	Nolan (Cambridge) Nolan is a 14 year old high school student who lives in Ayr and is from the Cambridge Riding. He is involved in his school and community through bands, choirs, hockey teams, baseball teams, basketball teams, volunteering and his participation in dramatic productions, especially musical theatre. Last June, Nolan was a Legislative Page for Ontario's Members of Provincial Parliament at Queen's Park. Nolan attends Cameron Heights Collegiate Institute where he is in the International Baccalaureate Programme.
	Brittany (Chatham--Kent Essex) Brittany is an eleventh grade student at L'Ecole Secondaire de Pain Court. She is very involved in her school and has been on the Student Council since grade 9. This year Brittany was elected as the student trustee of her school board (CSDƒCSO). Since her election she has become more involved as a student trustee with Ontario Student Trustees Association (OSTA-AƒCO) and sits on the executive council as the French Catholic Board Council President. She is thrilled to have the opportunity to help make a difference in our beautiful province.
	Rosimay (Davenport) I'm 16 and live in a foster home where unlike many people I have more great experiences being in care that expected. I enjoy getting involved with anything and believe that an open mind can take us higher than the sky. I am a very attentive person and also anti-oppressed, I am also the type of person who likes to give every one a chance and sees myself as a silent leader.
	James (Don Valley East) I am an avid athlete having played hockey, volleyball, beach volleyball, football, rugby and swimming. My hockey team has won the City Championships 2 years in a row and I am very proud to have been a part of that. I am a goalie. I am a good student and enjoy working in groups or on my own. I like cars and motorcycles. I live at home with my mom, dad and dog. My sister is in university.
	Osman (Don Valley West) Osman is the youngest of 5 kids. Born in Somalia, he moved to Canada when he was 3 years old. He calls Toronto home now and loves the diversity of the city. In his spare time, Osman loves to take photographs of Toronto's urban landscape. He also enjoys writing short stories, inspiring to become the next great novelist. Osman sees himself as a catalyst to improving Ontario's electoral system. He feels it is important to always strive to be better.
	Robert (Dufferin—Peel—Wellington-- Grey) Robert lives in the town of Caledon and currently goes to Robert F. Hall Catholic Secondary School. He is in grade 11 and enjoys courses that include music, history, and law. Robert is the Mayor of the town of Caledon's Mayor's Youth Council. The Mayor's Youth Council is a group of 20 youth who represent the youth of Caledon through listening, advocating and facilitating their endeavors.
	Hannah (Durham) I'm Hannah from Newcastle. I go to a small school with just a little more than 600 students. I'm the Prime Minister of the student council, where I run student council meetings and plan events that I then pass on to other members of the student council to run. I plan on going to Trent University next September, and as of right now I hope to become a psychologist. I hope to make this experience memorable and I hope to make a change.
	Ryan (Eglinton-Lawrence) Ryan, 18, knows first-hand the role of diversity. As a multiracial youth, Ryan understands the importance of recognizing all members of a society regardless of social, ethnic, cultural or religious backgrounds and believes that this Assembly will effectively voice the concerns of many groups in this province. Ryan is a strong believer in cooperation and group learning, and enjoys undertaking new challenges. Currently he is in his first year at the University of Western Ontario in the Biological & Medical Sciences program.
	Emilia (Elgin--Middlesex--London) I am a friendly, creative, and enthusiastic person who enjoys meeting new people. I represent the diversity of our country by having a Hispanic background. I also believe that I can represent the point of view of many teenagers by being involved in a variety of school activities including sports and socials and also by being involved with things outside of school. I believe everyone has a story that we can learn from, and I hope people will learn from mine.
	Ashley (Erie--Lincoln) If I could use two words to describe my life mission they would be, "lasting change." I am passionate about seeing communities transformed, about changing the perceptions of the Third World and about eradicating the presence of injustice. I love to write poetry, spend time with my sister and my faith is the driving point of what I do. I cannot wait to see what the future entails for our generation.
	Barbara (Essex) I live in Cottam, Ontario and attend Kingsville District High School. My hopes are to go on to University after this, my grade 12 year, for Journalism and Law, Journalism being my major. I have campaigned for a political figure for the last two elections even though I am still not old enough to vote. My interests are, writing, playing guitar (all music) and traveling. I hope to one day visit New Zealand.
	Britney (Etobicoke Centre) Britney was born in Etobicoke and enjoys playing volleyball, tennis and badminton. She also enjoys shopping, hanging out with her friends, anything that comes up. She enjoys going to rallies with friends which include days of Darfur, a 30 k gulu walk.
	Filip (Etobicoke--Lakeshore) I am a 17 year old student in the French Immersion program at Richview Collegiate Institute in Etobicoke. In school, I enjoy math, sciences and languages. I speak four languages. I play the piano, and music is an important part of my life. At St. Christopher's house, I'm a volunteer in the after school tutoring program. I enjoy playing soccer and tennis, and spending time with friends. I'm interested in architecture and the urban development of Toronto.
	Jasmine (Etobicoke--North) My name is Jasmine Sidhu and as my name indicates my life has been impacted by two very distinct cultures. The first nine years of my life were spent in Kitchener, Ontario. It was following this period that my parents decided to uproot me from my typical Canadian existence in Kitchener to drastically different Punjab (India). After experiencing the rich Punjabi culture and staying in boarding schools, I have returned to Etobicoke after 5 years. Since I lived in two countries, I like both Hollywood and Bollywood movies. I love reading books, especially fantasy and horror. I eat like a pig and have an appetite like one too! Finally yet embarrassingly, I still sleep with my teddy bear! I hope this brief glimpse of my personality will prompt you to get to know me better.
	Dan (Glengarry--Prescott--Russell) Dan is a senior high school student at St. Francis Xavier CHS, from the riding of Glengarry--Prescott--Russell. Dan is an average high school student who enjoys friends, music, concerts, and weekends. Dan is currently in his last year of high school working towards University next year, where he hopes to attend Carleton in the nation's capital and work towards a degree in Criminology and Political Science.
	Jake (Guelph--Wellington) I am 17 years old, in grade 12 and am currently attending St. James Catholic High School in Guelph. I work on the Student Council where I coordinate the student representatives from each grade in our school. I'm a very outgoing person who likes to meet new people. I am involved in cross-country with the school and have a band with my friends outside of school. I also work part-time as a supervisor at Dairy Queen.
	Melissa (Haldimand--Norfolk--Brant) Former pageant winner of Miss Teen Six Nations, Melissa Elliott is a Haudenoshonee from Six Nations. She organized 2 Unity Runs that were over 600km long and Youth Rallies unity and alternatives to bad life choices. She was the youngest representative on the talk show, VoxTalk, discussing native issues. She is also a reporter for "The Link", an upcoming show. She enjoys acting and is currently in the production of "Annie" running this December.
	Maria (Haliburton--Victoria--Brock) I attend Fenelon Falls Secondary School as a Grade 11 student. I have traveled on a Rotary exchange to Brazil, and have also traveled to Australia. I am a member of groups at my school including S.A.C, Reach for the Top, and K.U.R.E (Kids Understanding Respect Everywhere). Also, I am on many sports teams. These include soccer, rugby, figure skating, and snowboarding. I am an honor student and have a great compassion for new and exciting experiences.
	Darya (Halton) I am a grade ten student at St. Ignatius of Loyola Catholic School in Oakville. I am Russian and Ukrainian, but I was born in Latvia and moved to Canada when I was eight years old. I enjoy drama, science, math, and civics. I play tennis, I did ballet for nine years, and I like traveling. I love watching movies; my favorite is "Amelie". I would like to have a career in the acting business or in Canadian government.
	Srdjan (Hamilton East) I have only recently become interested in politics and current affairs. It started last year half way through the school year when i joined the current affairs club. I love playing tennis, but I also like a lot of other sports. I also like to play video games. Probably, my favorite academic interests are ancient history, politics, mathematics, and science. I read every night before i go to bed. My favorite novels are the Dan Brown books, the Harry Potter series, and The Life of Pi.
	Nicole (Hamilton Mountain) I am a post graduate returning to grade 12 at Barton to upgrade my marks so I can go on to Algonquin College for the creative writing, and library/information technician courses. I enjoy going to shows and supporting local bands, as well as playing music. I enjoy a wide variety of music, though mainly indie, hardcore, and metal. I am a fan of black & white photography, Tim Burton, Van Gogh, Shakespeare, and Poe. I love hockey and reading, and spend a little too much of my free time on myspace.com.
	Dylan (Hamilton West) I am a grade 11 student at Westdale Secondary School in Hamilton, where I am co-President of the student council (Triune). I play hockey, volleyball and ultimate Frisbee. I love all kinds of music – jazz, rock, folk and even a bit of classical. I am interested in politics, science or law as careers. I hope that the Students’ Assembly will help me narrow down my choices and I’m looking forward to creating relationships that will last a lifetime.
	Zannah (Hastings--Frontenac--Lennox and Addington) Zannah is extremely involved with the politics of her community, along with global political structures through conferences and leadership opportunities. Her main interest in politics stems from the relationship that this field has between people and their governments. The implications each policy decision has on the social, environmental, and economic well-being of regions make Zannah ultimately conscientious of choices that she makes in politics, and it is this mentality that fuels her interest in changing the status quo.
	Lauren (Huron--Bruce) I am a 16 year old student at South Huron District High School in Exeter. I enjoy playing field hockey and volleyball on school teams, and also play French horn and trombone in the school bands. I hold a part-time job at a catering business. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, watching movies, and spending time with my friends. In grade 8, I served as a Legislative Page in Queen's Park, which sparked my political interest.
	Craig (Kenora--Rainy River) I am an aboriginal, so I grew up for the first few years of my life on the First Nation community of Eabametoong (Fort Hope), and when I moved to Sioux Lookout, it was kind of hard because I had to enter kindergarten knowing no English but throughout the years I've learned how, but growing up with not only my own issues but the ones I have seen on the reserve made me want to do something.
	Declan (Kingston and the Islands) When I was young, I always wanted to help the world. I have always loved the idea of being able to effect changes that would help to make tomorrow a bright future for everyone worldwide. I have thought long and hard about how I want to live my life and I have decided that I want to live to help others however I can, and how better to do so than by contributing to my government?
	Tyler (Kitchener -- Centre) I am 18 years old and a resident of Waterloo Ontario. I am currently in my last year of high school, with plans to attend the University of Waterloo for Aviation and Geography, next year. My career goal is to become a commercial pilot. My hobbies include flying, traveling, and motorcycles.
	Larissa (Kitchener--Waterloo) After reading books such as Daniel Quinn's 'Ishmael', and the work of Stephen Lewis I knew that I really had to be the change which, I so desperately want to see in the world. No longer will an affinity for used clothes, a refusal to eat fast food, a vegetarian lifestyle and a subscription to Adbusters suffice. I want to buy myself a gas mask, tear this world apart and rebuild from the roots with others of like mind.
	Bethany (Lambton—Kent--Middlesex) I am currently a grade 12 student at Lambton Kent Composite School in Dresden, Ontario. I come from a small family, a small school and a small town that I feel a huge sense of belonging to. I am a lifeguard at several pools in my area and I have worked hard to gain a Supervisor position at the Dresden pool. This position has taught me how to motivate and energize large groups of people. I have gained a lot of leadership skills through my jobs and extra-curricular activities. I am currently the Student Council Deputy Prime Minister at my school. I have a passion for planning and organizing events. I am very self motivated and I love to swim, play volleyball and play badminton. I love working with children and I hope to have a future career where I can put together all of the skills that I have learned in my life and be a strong leader.
	Genny (Lanark--Carleton) I'm in grade 10 at Almonte High School. I am one of nine kids right now but our family is always changing because we are a foster family. I have three sisters and five brothers. I am involved in the community, volunteering at the hospital and I am interested in basketball. I am involved in 4-H Ontario and I am dedicated to achieving good grades at school.
	Stephen (Leeds--Grenville) I am a student at St Michael's Catholic High School in Kemptville. My interests include drumming, mountain biking and filmmaking. I am a freelance journalist for CBC Radio and am currently in Grade 12.
	Shiming (London North Centre) I am a Grade 10 student from A.B. Lucas Secondary School in London Ontario. I appreciate many things in life and I think life should be enjoyed at every second. I enjoy reading, painting and listening to music. I love a lot of things such as my family, my friends, and my school and I am grateful for all of the things in life.
	Alex (London West) I am 17 years old and I attend H.B. Beal Secondary School in London ON. I am currently studying auto-mechanics through the 4 credit auto-mechanics program and a co-op placement through my school at a local shop. I am interested in cars, books, music, video games and history. I also like to travel whenever I have the opportunity. I live with my mom, dad and 12 year old sister. We also have a dog named Katrina.
	Mandy (London--Fanshawe) I am fourteen years old and from the riding of London-Fanshawe. I am involved in drama, swimming, school choirs and bands, as well as music lessons. I currently attend Catholic Central High for the International Baccalaureate Programme. I like watching movies, hanging out with my friends, riding my bike and being involved in leadership organizations. My favorite movie is probably the political thriller, V for Vendetta. I enjoy the movie because it proves to us that the common person can make a difference in the world of politics, and that power is intoxicating. I look forward to meeting my fellow delegates.
	Prashanth (Markham) I am in 10th grade at Middlefield Collegiate Institute in Markham, ON. Having been interested in the thoughts and opinions of students at a young age, I was influenced to join this Assembly and share my thoughts and opinions with other students. Having a say in one's own future is great, and I agree with this fact. For this reason, I chose to be in the Assembly and make a difference in the world.
	Natalie (Mississauga Centre) I'm currently in the Grade 11 Regional Arts Program at Cawthra Park for music. I enjoy a good live performance and mint chocolate chip ice cream. I love to travel, and was named MVP for volleyball last season. On occasion I manage to relax with the help of friends and family. My latest accomplishments include earning the general proficiency award, with the 3rd highest average in my grade, and the Photography award. I am as confused as can be where post-secondary education is concerned.
	Serhiy (Mississauga East) I have a very curious and hardworking personality. I enjoy working with people, and decide on different issues. I like to share my experiences and to listen to the experiences of others. Also I am a very energetic person that tries to take any upcoming opportunity. My dream is to become a political leader and to improve the lives of people, to help the poor, to cure the suffering and to bring hope.
	Leah (Mississauga South) I am a grade 11 student who has great motivation, and determination. I am not the person who sits around waiting for change, I'm the person who gets involved and takes action. I am apart of L.E.A.P and looking to join a political party. I enjoy reading the news and finding out what is going on in the world. Knowing about the world’s issues is important to me.
	Sara (Mississauga West) Sara is currently 17 and a grade 12 student attending John Fraser Secondary School, in Mississauga; she is currently involved in her school production of Vital Signs. Along with school and the play she manages to balance having a part-time job at McDonald's as a Swing Manager. After this year of school she hopes to move on and either become an American Sign Language interpreter, a high-school drama, history, or politics teacher, or a teacher for the deaf.
	David (Nepean--Carleton) I participate in extra-curricular activities such as badminton, golf and 4-H Junior Farmers. I volunteer for the Richmond Agricultural Society. I work part-time at a golf driving range, as a berry farm worker, arena canteen operator and at a dairy barn. I have recently received an Excellence in Math Academic Award for grade 9. I received the Citizenship Award upon graduating grade 5 and the Principal's Award for Leadership when I graduated grade 8.
	Maria (Niagara Centre) I am 15 years old and I love animals, music and writing. I go to Laura Secord Scondary school in St. Catharines Ontario where I live and I love my community, my school and my friends. I am very opinionated but open minded as well. I hope to gain a lot of experience from participating in the Students' Assembly.
	Salvatore (Niagara Falls) I am a longstanding member of Fort George National Historic Site's Fife and Drum Corp., where I have volunteered for the past seven years and have been employed during summer months as a drummer. I teach drum to the junior students there. I am actively involved with all of their events and have traveled extensively with them, representing the Fort's historical significance. I also participate in re-enactments across Ontario. I work part-time as a security guard.
	David (Nickel Belt) David has lived throughout Ontario including London, Sault Ste. Marie and Sudbury. David has always taken an active role in politics, from volunteering during elections, to being a registered member of his party. As school president in his grade eight year, and elected to school treasurer in grade nine, David is an active member of his school community. David has always strived to reach new levels. Canada's future lies with today's youth.
	Jesse (Nipissing) I am from Temagami First Nation in Northern Ontario. I am 18 years old and in grade eleven attending Nipissing Secondary School on Nipissing First Nation. I have a keen interest in politics. This year, I was youngest candidate in our Band Council elections and I am proud that 20% of the voters had confidence in my leadership abilities.
	Isabelle (Northumberland) Isabelle is a grade 10 student at East Northumberland S.S. in Brighton. She is currently Minister of Student Affairs on Student Government, a Senator for her school board's Student Senate, a member of community challenge, and involved in a whole bunch of other stuff. She has three siblings ages 16, 7, and 5. Isabelle enjoys watching cheap horror movies, eating pizza, and talking to friends. The proudest moment of her life was when she soundly thrashed all the boys in her class at a Halo 2 tournament.
	Aliaksandra (Oak Ridges) I am very privileged to participate and be part of students' assembly. It is a great opportunity to be more involved in electoral systems decision making. I believe that students- even though can't vote, can contribute to the discussion of the decision making that affects us every day. Electing government is a very important process and to have more individuals participate in the process is a great idea. I am thankful that I was given this opportunity.
	Kyle (Oakville) I am a 15 year old boy in grade 10. I live in Oakville, Ontario, and currently attending St. Thomas Aquinas. I am involved in lots of extra curricular activities including: Soccer in the summer, youth group, band, guitar, volunteering at the church to read and once in a while help the good shepherd. I work just to put some extra cash in my pocket at a Wendy’s Restaurant. Pretty much if you ask anyone I am an overall nice guy who likes to pretty much do anything.
	Mahmood (Oshawa) I am a grade 12 student at Anderson CVI. I am planning on majoring in Political Science at the University of Toronto. I love politics, one day I would like to work for the Canadian Government or the United Nations. I am an active participant in my community; I volunteer at many places including the YMCA. I am also part of the culture of peace committee at my school and am part of many groups including the HIV/AIDS campaign, and plan on starting my own committee on stopping the use of child soldiers in Sudan. I love acting and have acted as a lead on a YTV show entitled "Ghost Trackers", therefore I am not shy on expressing my views in front of others and I stand up for what I believe in.
	Kathleen (Ottawa Centre) Kathleen is a friendly, optimistic student in her senior year of high school. If she's not "freaking out" about her next law test, she's off playing hockey and leading her team to victory. Her favorite sports teams are the Ottawa Senators and the Mighty Reds Football Club - Manchester United. She recently discovered that she is a distant relative of Sir John A. Macdonald. Her life goal is to get to a FIFA World Cup.
	Asha (Ottawa South) I am a 16-year-old, grade 11 student currently living in Ottawa South. In my spare time I love to write stories, act, and get in a game of volleyball or two.
	Shannan (Ottawa West--Nepean) I am a 14 year old male who lives in Ottawa and enjoys skateboarding, skiing, playing rugby and getting involved with whatever is going on around me. I enjoy debating and learning about new things. I am fair and open-minded and non-judgmental. I believe no one person is perfect but if we stand together, we can make up for each other's imperfections. To summarize this, all I can tell you is "GET involved" and don't underestimate the power of youth.
	Johanna (Ottawa--Orleans) I am a senior grade 12 student at Sir Wilfrid Laurier secondary school in Orleans Ontario. I am very excited to be chosen as a member of the Students' Assembly. I am very energetic and I am not afraid to speak my mind. I am ready to become a part of a history-making process with many other students with the same enthusiasm as I. You won't be sorry I was selected, I promise!
	Safiya (Ottawa--Vanier) Safiya is a 16 year old Somali Canadian. She attends Gloucester high school in Canada's capital, Ottawa. She's an active member of the Muslim community and currently Safiya sits on a youth council expose. She adores her family and friends and has a passion to help others in need. She also wants to help make this country a better place for everyone.
	Sam (Oxford) Sam is a sixteen year old student from SW Ontario. He is currently in grade eleven, taking a special interest in Visual and Literary Arts. He has a very defined interest in politics and social systems, as well as the improvement of democracy and human rights in all nations. This has proved a segue for him to become an aspiring activist, in compliment to his work on his first novel, and a continuous stream of art.
	Jessica (Parkdale--High Park) Jessica was born and raised in the Parkdale-High Park riding. She is a Grade 12 student attending Parkdale Collegiate Institute. She is an active member of Parkdale's Students' Council as a Grade 11 Representative and currently the Sr. Vice President. She is a member of Parkdale's Equity Club and KEY Club. In addition, she is an avid community volunteer; she has assisted at Spencer House Nursing Home, was a Camp Counselor at the Masaryk-Cowan Community Centre and at the Science Outreach Camp at the University of Toronto. She plays competitive Soccer and Ultimate Frisbee. She will be participating in the youth volunteer service program, Katimavik for 2006/2007.
	Caitlynn (Parry Sound--Muskoka) I'm a very energetic, outgoing person. I have lived in Bracebridge my whole life, and have a 10 year old brother named Dylan. My parents have been divorced for 6 years, and I live with my mom most of the time. I love sports, and soccer is my specialty. I love to dance hip-hop and have been dancing for 7 years. Friends and family are very important to me, and I love the color red! I Work at Kelsey's in Bracebridge, and my favorite thing to eat is cinnamon buns!
	Jesse (Perth--Middlesex) Jesse is an active philanthropist, little-noted author, burgeoning politician and diplomat whose inspirations are Nelson Mandela, Pierre Trudeau, Stephen Lewis and Atticus Finch. He organizes food drives, sends Christmas presents to children in Africa, facilitates World Vision sponsorship, runs HIV/Aids awareness assemblies, and picks up garbage in his community. Jesse would like to pursue a career in international law, working towards economic equality for the developing world.
	Emma (Peterborough) I currently reside in Peterborough, ON. I am eighteen years old and have gone back to high school for an extra semester to take economics and co-op. I am very interested in politics and international development. I plan to go to university in the fall of 2007 to study international development. I currently volunteer with Jamaican Self-Help in Peterborough and am sitting on a Make Poverty History Committee.
	Clara (Pickering--Ajax--Uxbridge) I am currently in my last year of high school. I plan on attending university next year to study in the social science field. I am a French Immersion student and plan on using these skills in my future. I am from Uxbridge, a rural community. I work at a unique gift shop and have also enjoyed working with children. I have a great love for reading, music and theatre. I am a positive and optimistic person.
	Katharine (Prince Edward--Hastings) I am a Grade 10 student at Belleville's Nicholson Catholic College. I am interested in politics, and I would like to learn more about the democratic process. I am involved with extra-curricular activities and groups that contribute to the school community and to school spirit. I enjoy playing rugby, swimming, badminton, waterskiing and more. I am also part of a group called 'Voices' that incorporates Crimestoppers, OSAID, and CAVEAT. We work together to make my school a better and more caring place.
	Emily (Renfrew--Nipissing--Pembroke) I am proud to represent Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke. I am currently a grade 12 student attending Opeongo High School. I aspire to go to university, studying International Development. I am very active in high school bands, plowman's association, and volunteering at various community events. I enjoy a good challenge and I am constantly challenging myself in school, community and hobbies. I hope to learn about the government in this assembly, and will share my experience with others in my community.
	Savita (Sarnia--Lambton) Savita Rani is a grade 10 student from Sarnia, Ontario. She is extremely interested in opportunities like the Students' Assembly. She is a violinist, loves to swim and play badminton, and is an avid reader. She loves to laugh, and finds that the quality in her friends that she loves the most is their sense of humor. Savita enjoys traveling to different places, and is currently in love with the region of Gaspe, Quebec, which she visited last summer.
	Spencer (Sault Ste. Marie) I attend Saint Basil Secondary School. I am 14 years of age and I am in grade 11. I am Aboriginal and I am Mohawk, my band is Kawnawake, Quebec. I extremely enjoy politics and law and I want to attend McGill University in Montreal as a law student. If selected I look forward to working with students from across the province looking for ways to change our electoral system in Ontario.
	Seghen (Scarborough Centre) I was born and raised in Toronto, Ontario, with my mother, father, two sisters and one brother. My friends and family have become a central part of my life as they have helped me get through everything. I am in grade twelve at Mary Ward Catholic School, a self-directed school. I have chosen to take part in the Students' Assembly because I believe that the future depends on our generation and we must begin contributing now.
	Joseph (Scarborough East) I am a 15-year-old youth that is passionate about creating change in our society. I believe in the power of democracy and believe that it is time for Electoral Reform in our province. I look forward to working with youth across the province towards effecting positive change in our country and know that when passionate youth come together working towards a common goal, it can only mean results.
	Jimmy (Scarborough Southwest) Jimmy has been living in Scarborough for the past 9 years, and is currently a grade 12 student at Metropolitan Preparatory Academy. He is an active member of the Toronto Youth Cabinet and is on the Youth Action Committee of Campaign2000, a social justice lobbying group working on the alleviation of child poverty in Toronto and Canada. He enjoys playing soccer and the saxophone leisurely.
	Emily (Scarborough--Agincourt) I'm a grade 10 student at The Bishop Strachan School, and am passionate about resolving issues surrounding the world today. I devote most of my time to the extra co-curricular arts and volunteer work. Living in Ontario since the age of 3, I have grown up knowing our democratic system. In realization of the various flaws in our method, I aspire to assist in creating change in Ontario's electoral system to bring forth more fairness and effectiveness.
	Victor (Scarborough--Rouge River) I live in Toronto and I am a grade 11 student at Woburn C.I. I am interested in many political issues, especially democratic reform. Currently, I am helping to set up "youth parliaments" in local schools for students to express their opinion on diverse topics. I also really enjoy learning French, and I find it fascinating to communicate in another language. I am really looking forward to learning more about different voting systems and contributing to this unique democratic process.
	Emma (Simcoe North) The Emma is an elusive creature often found stalking the halls of ODCVI on multiple missions of student success. Frequently she can be spotted at her part time job scanning various grocery items at the local A&P, when she is not on stage partaking in several school drama endeavors. A regular social butterfly, the Emma is a proud part of three committees and the Board of Education with her newly appointed position as Student Trustee. Living in an intentional Quaker community, she takes her neighbours and conservation issues to heart, especially when working with younger Girl Guides of Canada.
	Corey (Simcoe--Grey) Corey Scott is an 18-year-old student residing in Wasaga Beach and Simcoe-Grey. He is an influential gay& humanitarian activist in his school, Collingwood Collegiate, and co-heads the Amnesty International Group & School Newspaper. Last year he was also president of the environmental group & held a federal election debate in his school. Outside his school, Corey is the NDP youth executive for Simcoe-Grey & is a strong supporter of free speech & minority rights & equality.
	Husam (St. Catharines) I live in the city of St. Catharines near Toronto. I was born in Saudi Arabia. I lived in Sudan before coming to Canada in 2001. I am 14 and the kind of guy who always wants to get involved in something. I am somewhat athletic and I enjoy playing sports. I am an easygoing and outgoing person and I like to help whenever I possibly can. I'm not exactly unintelligent and I use my brain to get out of problems.
	Kael (St. Paul's) Kael, a Torontonian, video artist and pigeon-lover, has a lot to say about the power of doubt. This grade 12 student is a member of the school gay/straight alliance, an editor of a foreign language magazine, and can boast a bizarre array of hobbies including 600-km bike marathons, steel drumming and yoghurt-making. Kael is a vinegar activist in an oil-and-water world, and believes in the unexplainable usefulness of the silent G.
	Matthew (Stormont--Dundas--Charlottenburgh) I'm a Grade 12 student currently attending Seaway District High School in the rural town of Iroquois. My interests include music, science and mathematics, and I enjoy participating in many extra-curricular activities, including Swing Dance and Jazz Band. This past year, I took a student exchange to France for four months, where I expanded my knowledge of French culture and language. In the future, I hope to study biology such that I might become a research scientist.
	Barbara (Stoney Creek) I am a grade 10 student at Orchard Park Secondary School.  This year I am taking part in an exchange program to France to learn more about their language and culture.  I enjoy playing the clarinet in both the junior and senior band.  I play many sports during the year like soccer, volleyball and rugby.  I enjoy camping with my family.  We have traveled across Canada camping in many provinces along the way.
	Felix (Sudbury) Félix is a 16-year-old student at école secondaire Macdonald-Cartier. Born of a French-Canadian family, his mother tongue and culture are very important to him. Fascinated from childhood with politics, he makes it a point to keep up-to-date in matters of political importance, such as elections and newly-passed laws. He hopes to pursue his studies in either sociology, communications, political science or media studies.
	Aaqil (Thornhill) Aaqil is a grade 12 student at St. Robert Catholic High School in Thornhill. Aaqil hopes to bring his strong political views and his diverse background to the Student's Assembly in the hope that he may influence positive change. He also hopes to learn new things from people with different opinions on the topic. In the near future, Aaqil hopes to attend university and possibly pursue a career in politics as an MP. His hobbies include swimming, soccer and watching movies.
	Jamie (Thunder Bay--Atikokan) I am first nation and Spanish. I live in Thunder Bay Ontario and I am 15 years old. I am a very creative person and my favorite subjects in school are art and civics. I think people should have the right to voice their opinions and ideas which is what I will do. I am athletic and enjoy playing soccer. I spend my Mondays at air cadets where we learn about citizenship, government, drill, aircraft and survival. I am in high school in grade 10. During my summer I had a summer job at Tikinagin child and family services for a couple of weeks. I am an open person and I am also independent. I like to forward my ideas and I like when other people tell me their ideas too. My favorite thing to do is hang out with friends and that is me.
	Megan (Timiskaming--Cochrane) I am currently attending my last year at Temiskaming District Secondary School in the Temiskaming Shores area of northern Ontario. I am honoured and very proud to be representing both my town, my district, my friends, family and school in such an organization. I wish to learn, participate actively, and give helpful suggestions to improve our current electoral system. Through this, hopefully our system will fulfill betterment, both in the eyes of the governmental system, as well as the provinces' voters.
	Marc (Timmins--James Bay) Je fréquente l'école secondaire renaissance. Je suis patiener pour les politiques. Je demeure à Timmins. Je suis un élève qui se débat pour le droit d'avoir raison. Je ne laisse pas la pression des pers m'influencer dans mes décisons. Sa fait depuis 2001 que je suis dans les cadets d'armée et que je représent le nord de l'ontario pour cela. J'ai un trés bon point de vue pour la place des Žtudiants au Canada et j'ai comme but de les laisser voter à l'âge de 16 ans.
	Justin (Toronto Centre--Rosedale) I am a young person that is working hard with young people to change the electoral process. I also host a youth radio show to empower young people called 'Catch Da Flava'.
	Otiena (Toronto--Danforth) Otiena loves words, art, running and the environment. That is why she does what she does: she is the Editor of her school newspaper, she set up the recycling program at her school as Co-President of the Environment Club and she is a member of the Cross Country Team. She is a keen individual who is always searching for new ways to expand her horizons. She thinks that meeting new people is inspiring. She is in Grade 12 at Leaside High School in Toronto where she is in the French Immersion Program. She hopes to someday be the Mayor of Toronto, or maybe, a landscape architect. Whatever happens, she is sure that the future has bright things in store.
	Xing (Trinity--Spadina) I was born and raised in Toronto. I am currently a grade 11 student at North Toronto CI and am an optimistic and enthusiastic student and person. My favorite school subjects are History and Social Sciences. I have a passion for trying new things (food especially), and learning new languages. I enjoy listening to and playing music, traveling, playing sports, and meeting new people.
	Douglas (Vaughan--King--Aurora) Douglas, a grade eleven student at Thornhill Secondary School, loves music. He teaches piano and theory lessons from a home studio, as well as plays tenor saxophone and jazz piano in school ensembles and orchestras. In addition, he enjoys reading French novels and tutoring language arts and history. He is extremely proud to be a member of the students' assembly because he has the opportunity to voice his opinions.
	Kenneth (Waterloo--Wellington) I am a Grade 11 student attending Centre Wellington District High School. A member my school's Debate Club and Amnesty International faction, I have a passion for human rights as well as the right of free speech. During my spare time, I hang out with friends, play my bass guitar, listen to my music, and pay for all of this by baking at the local Timmy's. I'm excited for this opportunity!
	Caitlin (Whitby-Ajax) I am a proud member of a multi-racial family with a Canadian heritage of over 100 years. I enjoy being very involved and strive to succeed. I do this by engaging in discussions and debates of issues that face our youth, our country, and the world today. I often demonstrate my avid love for politics in my everyday conversations. My strive for success begins with personal goals. When I was 12 I received my black belt in Tae Kwon Do, and just recently ran in the Toronto half marathon. I compete on an all-star level 5 cheerleading team which travels around North American competing. To complete my busy schedule, I work around 20 hours a week to raise money for University. I am a well rounded 12th grade student whose drive comes from a will to succeed, a need to be involved and a desire to overcome any obstacle.
	Colin (Willowdale) I am a grade twelve student at Newtonbrook Secondary School in the riding of Willowdale. I love cross-country running, music and reading. I am currently running 5 Km a day, listening to Death Cab for Cutie, and reading The Essential Works of Oscar Wilde. I am on my student council at school and hope to go to Queens University to pursue a post-secondary education after my graduation in June.
	Elan (Windsor West) I am a grade 12 student at Vincent Massey Secondary School in Windsor, Ontario. I am honoured and privileged to have been chosen to represent my Windsor West riding at the Students' Assembly of Electoral Reform. I am an incredibly enthusiastic and optimistic person who is motivated and takes initiative. I have attended student conferences in the past where I always discover something new from each program that I know will provide me with the skills to succeed in my future endeavors, and The Students' Assembly was no exception. My interest in politics has always centered on giving my school and my community a greater voice in issues that affect them. My commitment to students and my community have always been my top priority. A strong advocate of student leadership and voice in government, I believe that my leadership qualities, self-motivation, and people skills will help me carry out a successful future and I have conferences like Students' Assembly to thank for it!
	Chris (Windsor--St. Clair) I'm 16 years old and am very involved in my school. As well as being an honor student, I am associated with the football, badminton, and track teams. I am the Minister of External Affairs of General Amherst as well being associated in the leadership program. In the future I plan to become involved in business. I am a very outgoing and confident person and feel I can achieve almost any task that is thrown my way and still have fun doing it!
	Benjamin (York Centre) I am a Grade 10 student in Toronto. I am a member of the wrestling team and have just joined the robotics team at my school. I play Dungeons and Dragons in my spare time and I am a Trooper and Crew Commander in the Governor General's Horse Guard, Army Cadets.
	Adam (York North) I am a 16 year old student in grade 11. My hobbies include playing and watching sports, playing video games, and using the computer. I believe this program is an excellent opportunity to gain skills you would otherwise not get. My advice to all of you out there is to apply for this program because it really is a good experience.
	Glenn (York South - Weston) Born and raised in Toronto, Glenn attends Runnymede Collegiate as a grade 10 Student. He loves working with people. Glenn worked for 12 division this summer and will pursue a career in Law Enforcement. Glen tries to apply himself to whatever he does.
	Abdullah (York West) I am an outgoing, assertive and athletic 15 year old student who is vigorously involved with sports, football and basketball being my favorite. I have been very interested in, and have had the desire to engage in both social and political issues affecting our community. In order to achieve this I have participated in volunteer actions.