Being recognized for contributions to his adopted city is the best feeling he has ever had, says Foad Karimian. A student at the Odette School of Business who came here from Burlington, he was one of four UWindsor students to receive the Mayor’s Youth Leadership Award during celebrations of the city’s 122nd birthday, Monday on the riverfront.

“I want to stay in Windsor after I graduate,” Karimian said. “There are people doing amazing things here.”

He said the award, in part inspired by his work to develop a mentoring program for local high school students, reflects the efforts of many.

“I would not have had the opportunity if it were not for my team of volunteers, the Odette School, and the Entrepreneurship Practice and Innovation Centre,” said Karimian.

The Youth Leadership Award, conferred by the Mayor’s Youth Advisory Committee, recognizes young Windsorites dedicated to community involvement, volunteerism and civic engagement. Monday’s award ceremony, which followed a walk beside the river led by Windsor mayor Eddie Francis, was a clean sweep for the University of Windsor.

Besides Karimian, those recognized included Sociology and Criminology Society founder Michelle Gajewski, Windsor Islamic Association executive Ronnie Haidar, and nursing student Regina Yuen, a volunteer with campus and community organizations.