NORTH BATTLEFORD – An energetic teen from North Battleford with a passion for animals and science has just won the Saskatchewan Weekly Newspapers Association (SWNA) Junior Citizen of the Year STEM award.
Anna Currie was in Regina to receive the award on May 29.
"I feel very honoured," the 18-year-old told SaskToday. "No words can describe how much gratitude I feel. I was in shock, but nonetheless, it is a great honour. And I'm very proud of myself and my accomplishments."
The youth is one of five to receive the Junior Citizen of the Year award, but the only one to receive the STEM award, which stands for having an aptitude for science, technology, engineering, or mathematics.
The other recipients are Coral Frenette from Shellbrook, Haley Ott from Regina, Kaylee Ross from Lloydminster, and Maia Smith from Moose Jaw.
Currie was nominated for the award by her mother, Donna Currie.
The youth was recognized for her academic success and volunteerism in the community.
Currie is active in her school as a member of the Student Representative Council and in the community.
She also performed in the Kiwanis Music Festival and earned many scholarships, bursaries and trophies.
Her success also doesn't come without its challenges. When she was in Grade 9, Currie developed Bell's palsy, which caused paralysis in her face and eye, making undertaking daily activities more difficult. However, she stayed focused on her studies and excelled in her classes while also continuing to give back to her community, according to her biography. The illness lasted about five months, and after receiving treatment she is fine now.
The North Battleford Comprehensive High School student has a particular interest in chemistry, biology and environmental science. She has been involved in studies on the growth rate of calves, the effects of hydrogen peroxide on wheat germination, and the reliability of various antacid tablets in alleviating heartburn.
The youth, who has a love of animals, has a goal to become a veterinarian. She has volunteered at Lakeland Veterinary Clinic and currently volunteers at Battlefords Animal Hospital. She plans to attend the University of Saskatchewan and pursue a degree in agriculture and bioresource animal science, and then hopes to attend the College of Veterinary Medicine.
The SWNA said in her biography that "in every aspect of her life, Anna exemplifies a spirit of determination and a passion for service, making her not only a role model for her peers but also a promising future leader in the veterinary community."
Currie encourages other youth to also strive to reach their goals and overcome any obstacles in their way.
"Don't be afraid of what other people think," she said. "Continue on what you believe in and continue and face this challenge through until you reach your goal."
