ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ (ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´) is proud to celebrate the outstanding achievements of Class of 2026 graduate Elizabeth Ding, who has received admission offers from Peking University and many of the world’s leading universities across Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia, along with more than $100,000 CAD in scholarships.

University Offers

Elizabeth received offers from:

• Peking University (Arts)
• University of Toronto: St. George (Mechanical Engineering)
• University of Toronto: St. George (Physical and Mathematical Sciences)
• University of Toronto: Mississauga (Chemistry & Physics)
• University of Bristol (Mechanical Engineering)
• University of Birmingham (Mechatronics Engineering)
• University of New South Wales (Robotics and Mechatronics Engineering (Honors))
• University of Sydney (Mechatronics Engineering)

After carefully considering her options, Elizabeth chose to pursue her studies at Peking University, one of China’s most prestigious institutions.

Turning Perseverance into Success

Elizabeth admits that she wasn’t always the most focused student.

“My biggest change at ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ was learning to dedicate more time to studying. Before, I spent most of my time having fun and rarely stayed focused for long periods.”

Her university application journey became a lesson in persistence. Determined to produce an outstanding personal statement, Elizabeth spent nearly a year developing and refining her application essays.

“I began planning my UK personal statement in February 2025 and spent almost a full year working on it. Since writing wasn’t my strongest skill, I wasn’t sure which experiences were worth including. I wrote countless drafts, discarded many of them, and finally had a version I was satisfied with in October. Then, in early November, I decided to change my intended major, which meant rewriting the essay almost from scratch before submitting it in early December.”

Looking back, she believes perseverance made the difference.

“Success comes from constantly learning and practicing. At first, everything feels uncertain, but through trial and error, you eventually find the approach that works best.”

Next Destination: Peking University

For Elizabeth, earning admission to Peking University represents far more than acceptance into a prestigious institution.

“Studying at Peking University will give me the opportunity to better understand China’s economy, culture, and development. It’s also a bridge connecting me to China. I hope to pursue a career that connects China with the rest of the world, and Peking University’s faculty and alumni network will provide invaluable perspectives and opportunities.”

She also noted that the university places significant emphasis on critical thinking and communication skills during its admissions process.

“The interview felt much like a debate. Six students discussed the same topic, presented their viewpoints, and supported them with evidence. The interviewers weren’t simply evaluating our answers—they wanted to see how we thought, reasoned, and communicated.”

Learning Independence Through International Education

Elizabeth chose to attend high school in Canada after hearing positive feedback about ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´’s safe residence environment and strong academic support.

Reflecting on her experience, she found Canada’s education system encouraged students to take ownership of their learning.

“In China, many aspects of your schedule are decided for you. In Canada, students have much greater responsibility for managing their own time and pursuing their own goals.”

She embraced every opportunity available at ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´, participating in numerous extracurricular activities, including:

• The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award (Gold Award)
• DECA Business Competition
• Robotics Team
• Student Volunteer Committee
• Student Media Team
• Morning Announcements Team
• Basketball Team
• Soccer Team

Balancing academics with athletics taught her valuable time management skills.

“We often started basketball practice at 6 a.m., stayed after school for training, and travelled to competitions during class time. Those experiences taught me how to use every spare moment efficiently.”

She also developed a habit that continues to guide her success.

“Every evening, I write out my schedule for the next day. Without a plan, it’s much easier to procrastinate.”

Dedicated Mentor Who Inspire Confidence

Throughout Elizabeth’s university application journey, Hassan Elkhalil, University Placement Counsellor at ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´, played an important role in encouraging and supporting her.

“Elizabeth is an exceptionally well-rounded student,” Hassan said. “She excels academically, especially in mathematics and science, while actively contributing to the school community through basketball, robotics, student leadership, volunteer service, and media activities.”

When Elizabeth first considered applying to Peking University, she questioned whether she was competitive enough.

“My biggest advice was simply to believe in herself,” Hassan recalled. “Helping students build confidence is often one of the most important things we can do as counsellors.”

Seeing Elizabeth achieve her goal has been deeply rewarding.

“Her success demonstrates what students can accomplish when they fully commit themselves and are willing to step outside their comfort zones.”

Congratulations to Elizabeth on her remarkable achievements. The ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ community wishes her every success as she begins this exciting new chapter at Peking University

ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ (ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´) has officially launched its highly anticipated 2026 “Learn English & Explore Canada” Summer Camp. Spanning two to three weeks, the immersive program brings together teens from Asia, North America, South America, and Europe. Under the guidance of dedicated instructors, campers are developing new skills, building global friendships, and exploring Canadian heritage through core program pillars.

1. Interactive English Language Acquisition

The program prioritizes language confidence through an immersive curriculum that moves beyond traditional rote learning:

• Creative Classrooms: Instructors utilize graphic novels, hand-drawn posters, and creative storytelling projects to encourage natural self-expression.
• Active Communication: Campers build fluency and written proficiency within a highly supportive, multicultural environment.
• Global Networking: Working alongside international peers allows campers to practice language skills daily and form cross-cultural connections.

2. Eastern Canada Historical Tours and University Visits

The curriculum extends beyond the classroom with a comprehensive four-day, three-night excursion to major Canadian cultural and political hubs, alongside stops at top-tier academic institutions:

• Ottawa: A tour of Parliament Hill, the political heart of Canada.
• Montreal: A visit to the historic Notre-Dame Basilica to explore its renowned architecture.
• Quebec City: A walking tour of Old Quebec’s historic cobblestone streets and French heritage.
• The Thousand Islands: A scenic boat cruise showcasing the natural landscape of the St. Lawrence River.
• University Campus Tours: Guided campus tours of the University of Toronto and McMaster University, designed to introduce students to Canadian higher education.

3. Regional Excursions: Toronto, Hamilton, and Niagara

Campers participate in regular full-day field trips highlighting regional landmarks, natural attractions, and cultural institutions:

• Niagara Falls: A close-up experience of the world-famous natural wonder.
• The CN Tower: A panoramic view of the Toronto skyline from one of the world’s tallest free-standing structures.
• Canada’s Wonderland: An outdoor amusement park experience featuring world-class roller coasters.
• The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM): An educational tour focused on art, world culture, and natural history.
• Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada: An interactive marine biology experience featuring an underwater viewing tunnel.
• Hamilton (“The City of Waterfalls”): Guided explorations of the local natural trails and waterfalls surrounding the ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ campus.

4. Leadership Skills, Athletics, and Applied STEM

The camp balances academic activities with physical challenges and technical workshops designed to build teamwork and critical thinking:

• Altitude Leadership Training: Under the supervision of certified instructors, campers navigate a high-ropes course to build resilience, self-confidence, and personal courage.
• Team Building: Cooperative group activities, including laser tag, bowling, and go-karting, reinforce peer collaboration.
• Fun Sciences: Hands-on robotics assembly and science experiments designed to foster technical problem-solving skills.
• Culinary and Fine Arts: Practical workshops in cooking and creative arts to encourage independent life skills.
• Athletics: Daily physical education sessions focusing on soccer, basketball, and rugby.

5. Special Events and Celebrations

The camp integrates traditional student life activities to foster a welcoming, inclusive community:

• Summer BBQ and Water Day: A seasonal outdoor event featuring water activities, inflatables, music, and an outdoor barbecue lunch.
• Community Celebrations: Monthly group birthday parties organized for campers celebrating birthdays in July, complete with shared activities and commemorative photos.

For More Information: please visit the official ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ Summer Camp portal at .

From arriving in Canada as apprehensive Grade 10 students to securing elite global university placements, twin brothers Ryan (Wenxian) and Matthew (Wenyu) Zhong have completed a remarkable two-year academic and personal transformation at ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ (ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´).

Prior to their graduation in June 2026, the brothers both accepted offers to the highly competitive Engineering Technology & Management (ETMAS) program within the Department of Agricultural & Biological Engineering (ABE) at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC).

Ranked #2 undergraduate program in the United States by U.S. News & World Report (2025), UIUC’s ABE department is a powerhouse of STEM and managerial education. Its graduates are highly sought after by industry giants such as Caterpillar and Anheuser-Busch, spanning the sectors of agtech, energy, construction, and manufacturing.

Overcoming Challenges to Achieve Academic Excellence

When Ryan and Matthew first arrived at ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ in May 2024, overcoming language barriers was their primary obstacle.

“When I first came to Canada, my biggest fear was public speaking,” Ryan recalled. “I would get incredibly nervous and struggle to find the right words in front of crowds.”

Matthew, who began in the ESL program, adopted a proactive mindset:

“I told myself: if my English speaking isn’t perfect, I need to make more friends and practice. No matter the challenge, just do your best.”

Supported by ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´â€™s immersive ESL curriculum, both brothers quickly adapted. Their academic progress culminated in top honors:

• Ryan received the Grade 12 Advanced Functions Subject Award with a final grade of 99%.
• Matthew received the Grade 12 Physics Subject Award with a final grade of 94%.

A Highly Decorated List of University Acceptances

In addition to their joint UIUC acceptance, the brothers earned prestigious offers across the United States:

Ryan Zhong (Offers Received):

• University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) – Engineering Technology & Management
• University of California, Davis (UC Davis) – Applied Physics
• University of California, Irvine (UCI) – Applied Physics
• University of California, Merced – Physics
• Rutgers University – Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, & Physics

Matthew Zhong (Offers Received):

• University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) – Engineering Technology & Management

Guiding Dreams: Personalized University Admissions Support

Unlike traditional, high-stakes single-exam systems, ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´â€™s continuous assessment model evaluated the brothers’ classroom performance, quizzes, projects, and daily growth, allowing them to consistently showcase their academic potential.

To navigate their post-secondary pathways, the twins worked closely with Grace, a university guidance counsellor in ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´â€™s University Placement Office (UPO). The UPO provided tailored support at every critical stage—from course selection and profile building to essay editing and final admissions strategies.

Brothers, Teammates, and Leaders

Beyond the classroom, Ryan and Matthew were highly active in the campus community. They played basketball together and demonstrated strong civic responsibility by completing nearly 100 hours of community service each.

Reflecting on their journey, the brothers emphasized the strength of their bond:

“Even though we may pursue different engineering disciplines in the future, we have always supported each other. Having someone who shares your goals and understands your experiences in a new country is incredibly valuable.”

Offering advice to incoming international students, they added:

“Everything will feel unfamiliar at first, but give yourself time. Step out of your comfort zone, get involved in activities, and take full advantage of what ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ offers. You will grow much faster than you think.”

ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ (ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´) student and Model United Nations (MUN) Head Delegate, Chantal Kaskende, recently represented the school at the prestigious, inaugural Tournament of Champions at Harvard MUN Canada.

Kaskende’s selection for the elite event follows her outstanding performance earlier this year at the University of Toronto Model United Nations (UTMUN), where she was honored with the Best Delegate Award. This provincial achievement secured her the exclusive invitation to compete alongside Canada’s top student diplomats.

Diplomacy and Leadership on the National Stage

The Tournament of Champions gathered the most accomplished MUN delegates from across the country for high-level debates on complex global issues. Throughout the conference, Kaskende engaged in rigorous negotiations, strategic drafting, and collaborative committee work. Key areas of focus during the summit included:

• Global Security & Emerging Technologies: Addressing the challenges of modern governance in an increasingly digital world.
• International Policy & Humanitarian Concerns: Formulating collaborative solutions for human rights and international stability.
• Strategic Negotiation: Utilizing diplomatic consensus-building to resolve high-stakes international scenarios.

Kaskende’s critical thinking, clear rhetoric, and collaborative approach distinguished her representation on the national stage.

Fostering the Next Generation of Global Leaders

In her role as ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´â€™s MUN Head Delegate, Kaskende continues to mentor peers and lead the school’s diplomatic delegation with a focus on empathy, resilience, and global awareness. Her journey from local achievement in Toronto to national recognition at the Harvard-affiliated summit exemplifies the practical leadership pathways supported by the college.

ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ (ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´) hosted its monthly Character Breakfast this week, celebrating outstanding students who demonstrated the core value of optimism through leadership, resilience, and community building.

At ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´, optimism is defined as more than just maintaining a positive attitude—it represents a commitment to embracing challenges, believing in personal growth, and actively encouraging peers.

Finding Opportunity in Every Challenge

This month’s award recipients distinguished themselves by stepping out of their comfort zones and tackling unfamiliar experiences with confidence. Key achievements celebrated at the event included:

• Courageous Leadership: Students who stepped forward without hesitation to perform the school song at the recent graduation ceremony.
• Overcoming Obstacles: Peers who faced personal fears during the high-ropes and climbing activities at the student Leadership Retreat.
• Civic Engagement: Individuals who channeled their energy into community service projects and assumed new student leadership roles.

Building a Stronger Campus Community

Whether in classrooms, on sports teams, within student residences, or during volunteer initiatives, the honorees were recognized for uplifting those around them with solution-focused attitudes.

By modeling resilience and kindness, these student leaders continue to foster a supportive campus environment where every student feels empowered to succeed.

A dedicated group of ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ (ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´) students spent last Saturday volunteering at Bayfront Park, supporting the local community at the annual Walk to Make Cystic Fibrosis History.

Throughout the day, ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ student volunteers worked closely with families, facilitating engaging games and interactive activities for children affected by the disease.

Supporting a Vital National Cause

Organized by Cystic Fibrosis Canada, the walk is the nation’s largest fundraising event dedicated to supporting research, high-quality care, and advocacy.

• About the Disease: Cystic fibrosis is the most common fatal genetic disease affecting Canadian children and young adults. It primarily impacts the lungs and digestive system, and currently has no known cure.
• The Mission: Events like the Bayfront Park walk raise crucial funds and awareness to improve the quality of life and find a cure for those living with the condition.

Developing Leadership Through Service

Beyond making a positive impact on the event’s attendees, the volunteer experience allowed ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ students to develop essential life and career skills, including:

• Event Facilitation & Teamwork: Co-managing activity stations and coordinating games in a fast-paced environment.
• Communication & Leadership: Engaging directly with children, parents, and community organizers to foster an inclusive, welcoming space.
• Health Advocacy: Gaining firsthand knowledge about cystic fibrosis and the daily challenges faced by individuals and families living with the disease.

“We are extremely proud of our students for bringing such enthusiasm, kindness, and positive energy to the event. Their commitment to serving others helped make the day a memorable one for everyone involved.”

ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ (ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´) hosted its May Character Award Breakfast, recognizing a dedicated group of students who have consistently demonstrated the core values of honesty and integrity through their daily actions, leadership, and community support.

The event highlighted individuals who have integrated accountability, sincerity, and ethical decision-making into both their academic and extracurricular lives.

Integrity and Service in Action

The student honorees were celebrated for their diverse contributions across campus, often driving positive community impact behind the scenes without seeking personal recognition. Key student achievements highlighted during the breakfast included:

• Peer Mentorship & Workshops: Leading educational initiatives through specialized Model United Nations (MUN) training sessions.
• Extracurricular Stewardship: Supporting and guiding peers within student organizations, including the Song & Strum Club and the Archery Club.
• Philanthropy & Athletics: Demonstrating civic responsibility through community fundraising initiatives—such as the recent CN Tower event—as well as managing administrative duties during athletics internships.

Whether in the classroom, on the sports field, or within student clubs, the award recipients demonstrated a consistent commitment to fairness, responsibility, and resilience.

Nurturing Character-Driven Future Leaders

The Character Award Breakfast is an integral part of ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´â€™s holistic approach to education, which emphasizes that true leadership extends beyond scholastic achievement.

By celebrating these foundational milestones, the college continues to foster an environment where students are encouraged to lead authentically, take ownership of their actions, and make principled contributions to the global community.

Members of the ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ (ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´) Student Leadership Team just completed an intensive, experiential training program at the McMaster Altitude facilities, participating in high-altitude outdoor challenges designed to foster resilience, teamwork, and personal growth.

The retreat pushed student leaders out of their comfort zones, requiring them to navigate physical obstacles and high-ropes courses situated 50 feet above the ground.

Overcoming Obstacles Through Personal Courage

The high-altitude climbing course served as a practical test of mental fortitude. Many participating students had to directly confront a fear of heights or navigate moments of self-doubt. By committing to complete the course, the student leaders developed hands-on experience in personal perseverance, discovering that courage is built through active decision-making under pressure.

Peer Support and Collaborative Problem-Solving

A central focus of the retreat was transitioning individual effort into collective success. No student climbed in isolation; instead, peer safety teams on the ground and on the platform provided active encouragement and navigation guidance.

Through these trust-based challenges and structured team missions, participants practiced core leadership principles:

• Active Encouragement: Uplifting peers during moments of physical and mental fatigue.
• Collaborative Safety: Relying on peer-led safety protocols and spotter communication.
• Shared Leadership: Understanding that leadership is defined by standing alongside team members during challenging situations rather than working in isolation.

Building a Cohesive Team Culture

The retreat concluded with cooperative team-building exercises and reflective conversations around a bonfire. This transition from high-stakes physical tasks to informal, shared storytelling allowed the newly formed Student Leadership Team to build authentic personal connections, practice deep listening, and establish mutual trust.

The ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ Philosophy on Leadership: At ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´, leadership development is integrated into experiential, real-world scenarios. By moving beyond classroom theory, the program aims to cultivate practical confidence, empathy, and resilience, preparing student leaders to actively support their campus community throughout the academic year.

Over 30 student volunteers from ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ (ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´) spent their Saturday at Gage Park, partnering with local artists to support Hamilton’s annual Imagine in the Park children’s art festival.

The student volunteers worked alongside professional creators to facilitate hands-on workshops and interactive artistic experiences designed to inspire local children and families.

Community Service in Action

Throughout the day, ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ students took on diverse roles to ensure the festival’s success and foster a welcoming atmosphere for young participants. Key volunteer contributions included:

• Artistic Facilitation: Assisting young children with various craft projects and painting activities.
• Artist Support: Partnering directly with local workshop leaders to manage materials and guide participants through structured activities.
• Creative Mentorship: Offering active encouragement to build confidence in young creators as they explored new artistic mediums.

Demonstrating the Value of Optimism

The event aligned directly with Optimism, ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´â€™s designated character trait for June. By volunteering their weekend and approaching each interaction with positive energy, the students demonstrated how a supportive attitude can actively uplift and strengthen the local community.

Through their leadership, kindness, and dedication, the ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ student volunteers helped create a memorable, collaborative experience that inspired local youth to express their creativity.

Ahead of the June 2026 Graduation ceremony, ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ (ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´) has announced the two student leaders selected by their peers to deliver the signature addresses during the upcoming commencement exercises.

Valedictorian: Chantal Kasekende

Chantal Kasekende will serve as the Class of 2026 Valedictorian, delivering the traditional address reflecting on the shared experiences of the graduating class and looking ahead to their future global contributions.

Kasekende has established a distinguished record of academic excellence, service, and leadership throughout her tenure at ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´. Notably, as the Head Delegate of the school’s Model United Nations (MUN) team, she recently secured the prestigious Best Delegate Award at the University of Toronto Model United Nations (UTMUN), showcasing high-level diplomacy, critical thinking, and strategic negotiation skills.

Vote of Thanks: Toni Fowora

Toni Fowora has been chosen to deliver the Vote of Thanks, a formal address dedicated to acknowledging the faculty, staff, families, and support systems that guided the graduating class throughout their academic journeys.

Recognized across the campus community for her integrity, collaboration, and positive character, Fowora has consistently paired academic diligence with active student life participation. As the captain of her intramural volleyball team, her commitment to sportsmanship and mutual respect earned her the tournament’s Fair Play Award.

Both selected speakers exemplify the core values of leadership, perseverance, and compassion that define the ÐÓ°ÉÔ­´´ experience. The college looks forward to their addresses as they mark this significant academic milestone alongside their fellow graduates.