Milton Women Recognized with Lieutenant Governors’ Legacy Awards

Honorees Acknowledged for Contributions to Inclusivity and Accessibility

Two remarkable women from Milton have been celebrated for their dedication to education, particularly in the realms of inclusivity and accessibility.

Rukshika Krishnamoorthy and Ngaire Rasmussen were among the 14 distinguished recipients of the Lieutenant Governors’ Legacy Awards, presented during a ceremony at the Ontario Arts Gallery in Toronto on Monday, September 16.

Here’s a closer look at their noteworthy achievements:

Rukshika Krishnamoorthy

Awarded the Lincoln M. Alexander Award, which honors young leaders for their efforts against racism and discrimination while promoting equity and inclusion. This accolade includes a $5,000 cash prize.

Rukshika, having faced bullying and racism as a child, has been a staunch advocate for inclusivity. She developed online mental health resources for the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board and provides free online tutoring for youth in Sri Lanka. Additionally, she serves as the under-18 co-chair of the Kids Help Phone National Youth Council.

Rukshika expressed her gratitude: “Receiving the Lincoln M. Alexander Award is an immense honor. When our efforts to combat racism and discrimination are recognized, it inspires young people to continue making a difference in our community.”

Ngaire Rasmussen

Recipient of the Hilary M. Weston Scholarship, awarded to two full-time graduate social work students at publicly funded Ontario universities who excel academically and contribute to mental health research. The scholarship includes a $7,500 bursary.

Ngaire, who has navigated significant challenges within the health-care system while dealing with mental health issues, is committed to removing similar obstacles for others. Her research includes a study on how music can support school readiness in disadvantaged preschoolers. As a Master of Social Work student, her dissertation will focus on utilizing the expertise of addiction peer support workers.

Ngaire shared her thoughts: “It’s a privilege to receive this award among such inspiring individuals. The financial support will greatly aid research that amplifies the voices and knowledge of peer support workers in addiction and substance use care.”