Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, my statement today is about youth.
In a society and world that often seems to be too big, and too uncaring for any chance of making a change, there are young people striving to do just that.
These individuals help us realize that no matter what the odds, nothing will happen until someone with the will and the commitment takes a first step, and others join in.
Today, Mr. Speaker, I want to recognize two young people who are endeavouring to make a difference and who can serve as an inspiration to us all.
Janet Wong, a 17-year old student at Sir John Franklin High School in Yellowknife, joined in the national "Stop Racism Youth Challenge" last year. Along with some schoolmates, she helped create the anti-racism mural at the YWCA here in Yellowknife, a project in support of tolerance and understanding of all races around the world. Janet is also a busy volunteer in causes that include Students Against Drunk Driving, and the Terry Fox and Run for the Cure cancer runs.
Her younger sister, Helen, has been the top fundraiser for the past three years in her school class effort to raise money for UNICEF, the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization. Helen's hope for the new millennium, Mr. Speaker, is simple and powerful; that all children have a chance to go to school.
These two young people have been honoured as Millennium Dreamers for their outstanding contribution. They will be joining 80 other youth from across Canada as ambassadors for their country in May.
Along with their parents, they will be guests of UNESCO, McDonald's Restaurants, and Walt Disney World in Florida, where more than 2,000 young people from 100 countries will participate in a three-day symposium called, "Kids Inspiring Kids for a Better Tomorrow".
Mr. Speaker, for me, this is all about how kids can make a difference. I invite this Assembly to join me in acknowledging their work, and the efforts made by many other young people across the Northwest Territories who believe they too can make a difference. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
-- Applause