This summer, Marymount Academy student Adonia Dunwell will join some of Canada’s brightest young minds after being accepted into the prestigious SHAD program at York University.

Running from July 5 to July 31, SHAD is a nationally recognized STEAM and entrepreneurship program that brings together high school students from across Canada for an immersive university experience. Participants live on campus while exploring science, technology, engineering, arts, mathematics, entrepreneurship, and leadership through hands-on learning, team projects, and mentorship from industry leaders.

For Adonia, the opportunity represents the next step in a leadership journey already making an impact both locally and provincially.

Earlier this year, Adonia was recognized with the 2026 Committee of Youth Officers for the Province of Ontario (COYO) Outstanding Youth Award, an honour presented annually to a young person who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, advocacy, and commitment to creating positive change in their community.

“Receiving the 2026 Outstanding Youth Award means more to me than words can express,” said Dunwell. “This award is not just for me, it is for all the youth and community members I have had the privilege of serving through my advocacy work. It motivates me to continue creating positive change and amplifying the voices of young people across Ontario.”