Four Yukon youth recognized for community leadership with annual award

Government honours young Yukoners making significant community contributions through service and leadership

Four Yukon youth recognized for community leadership with annual award Published 6:30 am Thursday, July 16, 2026 Four Yukon youth have been recognized by the territorial government for their exceptional community contributions, receiving this year’s Outstanding Youth Achievement Award. The annual honour celebrates residents aged 15 to 20 who strengthen their communities through volunteerism, leadership and service, according to the Yukon government. The award is sponsored by the Youth Directorate in partnership with the Office of the Commissioner.

Recipients receive a $250 cheque, a certificate and medallion, and are featured on posters distributed across the territory, the government said. Aila Massie of Whitehorse, 16, was recognized for extensive volunteer work and mentorship across several arts and youth‐focused organizations. According to the government, she contributes to Yukon Theatre for Young People as a performer, mentor and fundraiser, and volunteers with the Whitehorse Food Bank and Rendezvous Jr. Can Can Line.

Massie also teaches dance at Northern Lights School of Dance, supports youth at Polarettes Gymnastics Club and tutors students at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Secondary School. She writes for Starfish Magazine and What’s Up Yukon and advocates for environmental initiatives. The government described her as a high‐achieving student.

Watson Lake’s Huiying Lin Zheng, 18, was honoured for her leadership and service in health care, education and sport. As a Community Hospital Friendly Visitor, she provides companionship to patients and mentors volunteers, the release said. She also supports teachers and students at Johnson Elementary School.

Zheng serves as student council president, yearbook editor‐in‐chief and girls’ volleyball captain, and is a three‐time Watson Lake Secondary School Athlete of the Year. She represented Team Yukon at the 2025 Canada Summer Games and received the 2026 Loran Provincial/Territorial Award. James Dalida of Pelly Crossing, 17, was recognized for his leadership in school and community life since arriving from the Philippines two years ago, the government said.

He helped establish a recycling program, garden club, cooking club and school café, encouraging wellness and environmental responsibility, according to the release. Dalida organizes spirit weeks and fundraisers through student council, volunteers at community camps and participates in clean‐up events. He is learning Northern Tutchone language and traditions and shows “deep care and respect” for the community, the government said.

Whitehorse’s Malcolm Murchison, 18, was honoured for his quiet leadership, volunteerism and athletic achievements. He regularly volunteers at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Secondary School, Mountainview Church and community events such as Stuff the Bus food drive and ski trail maintenance. Murchison works as a lifeguard, mentors young athletes in cross‐country skiing and cycling, and has competed in mountain biking at the 2025 Canada Summer Games and national championships.

He also participated in cross‐country skiing at the 2026 Arctic Winter Games. Premier Currie Dixon congratulated the recipients, saying they demonstrate how hard work and perseverance can inspire communities, according to the news release. Contact Jake Howarth at jake.howarth@yukon-news.com