JCI Cape Breton is a non-profit organization that exists to help develop young professionals by encouraging leadership, community volunteerism, networking, entrepreneurship, active lifestyles, training and global awareness.
It is in the spirit of this mandate that the organization will be celebrate their annual Hype! Awards at the Membertou Trade and Convention Centre Wednesday, November 24th. The HYPE! Awards acknowledge young professionals, businesses, individuals and organizations that excel in each of the areas of opportunity identified by the Canadian Junior Chamber.
“As a volunteer organization run by youth, we are always excited when the Hype! Awards rolls around each year and we have the opportunity to recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of our peers.” says JCI Cape Breton President Mark Sparrow. “It’s an event that is as fun as it is important, with a great line up of hosts, entertainment, fundraising, and awards presentations.”
The gala will be co hosted by two local young movers and shakers – CBRM Councillor Derek Mombourquette and singer songwriter Carmen Townsend. Townsend recently won the HMV Next Big Thing competition at Nova Scotia Music Week and will be off to compete in the finals in London, England in February. Carmen will also be releasing her debut album Waitin and Seein in Australia in December and in Canada in January.
Entertainment will also include The Red Mike MacDonald Jazz Quartette, Hope Scheller, winner of the Next Big Thing Cape Breton Talent Competition, Dancers from the East Side Arts Academy, a special International Development video presentation by Shot on Site Media and a balloon pop fundraiser for JCI Nothing but Nets, a global campaign by JCI to fight malaria in Africa.
Youth, professionals and individuals between the ages of 18 & 40 are eligible for nomination as well as businesses and organizations from across Cape Breton Island. The HYPE! Awards Selection Committee is chaired by members of JCI: Cape Breton and other prominent business, academic and community members. The four awards to be given out are Excellence in Business Development, Excellence in Community Development, Excellence in Individual Development and Excellence in International Development.
JCI Cape Breton does not receive core funding and is governed by a board of youth volunteers. Fundraisers such as the HYPE Awards allows the group to deliver quality programs, events, and training for their membership year round.
Cocktails and networking at begin at 6:30pm with dinner & reception to follow. Tickets are on sale now at CBU Student’s Union and Time Machine Candy Works on Charlotte Street. There will be a cash bar on site and an after party featuring Carmen Townsend at Governor’s Pub and Eatery.
