JCI Cape Breton celebrated their third annual HYPE Awards Wednesday evening. HYPE (Honoring Young, Professionals & Entrepreneurs) acknowledges the achievements of local young professionals between the ages of 18 and 39 who have excelled in four areas of opportunity as identified by Junior Chamber International. The gala event took place at Membertou Trade & Convention Centre with hundreds in attendance, including a cross section of industry leaders, professionals, students and aspiring entrepreneurs. Aaron Corbett, a member of the Cape Breton Stage Company, hosted the high-energy event. The evening also included live entertainment from a local jazz quartet, as well as a premiere presentation of Carmen Townsend’s music video for her song “Sweet Little Bird”, produced by Shot on Site Media.
The Excellence in Business Development Award, sponsored by InNOVAcorp, recognizes those who have excelled in the development and enhancement of the economic infrastructure, prosperity and well being of business in Cape Breton. In addition, their activities increase local networks, builds a spirit of entrepreneurship and the development of transferable skills to themselves or others in the community. This award went to Mike MacDonald of Revive Hair Studio.
The Excellence in Community Development, sponsored by Nova Scotia Economic and Rural Development, recognizes individuals and organizations that have excelled in contributing to the community through their meaningful volunteer efforts in local charities, events and community-based initiatives. This award went to Todd Mercer, a local student attending Cape Breton University.
The Excellence in Individual Development Award, sponsored by the Cape Breton Partnership, recognizes professionals and organizations that have excelled in the development of individuals through training and/or mentoring to allow people in the community to realize their personal potential. Areas of opportunity may include, but are not limited to, business/entrepreneurship, arts and culture, athletics/recreation, research & technology. This award went to Nelson MacDonald of the Coastal Arts Initiative.
The Excellence in International Development Award, sponsored by Nova Scotia Business Inc., recognizes individuals and organizations that have excelled in the development of goodwill, understanding and cooperation among people of all nationalities, participate in or have interest in foreign relations, advocate/educate others in our local community on the importance of international relations and advancement of global involvement. This award went to Suzanne MacNeil, a local student attending Cape Breton University.
Chapter Awards, sponsored by NSCC Marconi Campus, were also presented to members of JCI Cape Breton who have shown dedication and demonstrated leadership in 2009. The award recipients are: New Member of the Year; Lucy Wintermans, Member of the Year; Joel MacRae, Event Chair of the Year; Alexis Ruddherman-Richards, Executive of the Year; Wayne Banfield, and Outstanding Contribution of the Year; Jill McPherson.
A Balloon Pop Fundraiser organized by JCI raised over $500, which goes towards the JCI Nothing But Nets global campaign against Malaria by providing insecticide bed nets, which provides protection for families.
“The HYPE Awards are organized 100% on volunteer hours by members of JCI Cape Breton and with the support of our sponsors and friends from within the community,” said Mark Sparrow, President of JCI Cape Breton. “The recipients are incredibly bright and active young leaders. We hope that celebrating their achievements will encourage them to stay in Cape Breton, and inspire others to move home as well.”
More information about JCI Cape Breton can be found at www.jcicapebreton.com.
