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A graduating student from Nottawasaga Pines Secondary School has been recognized for his leadership and commitment to equity with the Simcoe County District School Board’s 2026 Umoja Black Secondary School Leadership Award.
The SCDSB recently presented the annual scholarship to Tochi Nwokeke, recognizing a Black secondary school student who demonstrates leadership within their school and the Black community in Simcoe County.
During his time at Nottawasaga Pines SS, Nwokeke helped establish the school’s Diversity and Equity Association (DEA) after identifying a need for a student-led group focused on representation, cultural celebration and creating safe spaces. Working alongside a fellow student and school staff, the group now hosts annual events, assemblies and cultural celebrations designed to foster inclusion and belonging throughout the school community.
Nwokeke was also selected as valedictorian for the graduating class. In addition to his leadership through the DEA, he competed on the school’s varsity basketball team, participated in student leadership activities and earned academic honour roll recognition three times.
Outside the classroom, he has volunteered in the community through local initiatives supporting residents in need.
“Nwokeke is a remarkable young leader who consistently demonstrates what it means to uplift others through unity, service, and compassion,” says Rachel Cormier, a teacher at Nottawasaga Pines SS. “His leadership comes from a place of empathy and inclusion, and his impact on our school community has been both meaningful and lasting.”
His community involvement was also recognized by mentor and school volunteer Hodan Hassan.
“He has shown a strong dedication to his community through volunteer work, participating in local initiatives and offering his time to support those in need,” says Hassan.
Following graduation, Nwokeke plans to attend Redeemer University, where he will pursue an Honours Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology. He hopes to become a physiotherapist.
The Umoja Black Secondary School Leadership Award recipient is selected from applicants across the Simcoe County District School Board by the Equity Advisory Committee, with support from the board’s Human Rights and Equity Office and graduation coaches for Black students.
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