Mannat Malik, a student in the Arts & Science Program, has been presented with a 2012 YMCA Peace Medal (Adult Individual). The 20-year-old alumna of Hillfield Strathallan College earned the award thanks to her ongoing volunteer efforts in the city.

“Everyone nominated is doing amazing work, and I was really excited to be recognized along with them,” says Malik, who was nominated by her former French teacher at Hillfield, Heidy Peragine.

Mailk has been involved in Peragine’s English Conversation Circle for the past five years – a program that helps new Canadians become more comfortable with a new language and new surroundings. “I’ve become really attached to the program, because I’ve built friendships and I’ve had the chance to progress with the youth we’ve gotten to know,” says Malik. “I work primarily with a group of girls from Burma and Thailand. I feel like I’ve gotten to watch them grow up.”

The busy student also serves as a communications intern at Empowerment Squared, and recently established a girls club at Eva Rothwell Centre in Hamilton.

Hoping to do some volunteer work of your own? Check out some of the great opportunities offered through the University’s Student Success Centre.