It was an evening full of inspiration for all ages Wednesday night at the 22nd Annual Okotoks Leadership Awards.

Ted Menzies, Former Macleod MP, was in attendance as the keynote speaker for the event. He stressed the importance of young leaders in the community, a fitting topic for many of the awards given.

The annual Leadership Awards recognize involvement in the community, and leaders with optimism backed by motivating purpose.

Three recipients were received the Leaders of Tomorrow Award. Leaders of Tomorrow recognizes outstanding young people who have made exceptional contributions and demonstrate leadership, energy, commitment, character and devotion to helping others.

Andreas Dauter, winner of the Senior High Winners of Tomorrow Award, has been heavily involved in the community after being diagnosed with a fatal heart defect and wanting to immortalize his name.

"Currently I am the president of student council at Holy Trinity Academy, I'm also a representative on parent council as well as being involved in the Sheldon Kennedy Child Advocacy Centre," he says. "It's really nice, I like bringing things together, it's what I'm doing this for, so having that recognized and having this opportunity is really awesome."

He says he wants to thank his biggest supporter, his mother, for the award along with his nominator Mr. James.

Heart of Okotoks Award Winner Eileen Swan has been volunteering at Tudor Manor for four years and was recognized for the joy she brings the residents. She was very proud to receive such an award.

"I feel honoured, I feel humbled because I do what I do because I love it. I think I get just as much out of it as the residents of Tudor Manor, I love them all and it's just wonderful to make them happy."

Congratulations to everyone who received an award:

Leaders of Tomorrow Elementary Award: Ainsley Smith

Leaders of Tomorrow Junior High Award: Rylan Slapman

Leaders of Tomorrow Senior High Award: Andreas Dauter

Heart of Okotoks Award: Eileen Swan

Rotary Club Integrity Award: Gerry Wood

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