As a black male Canadian teenager, I have experienced life as both a privilege and a struggle. I recognize, celebrate and am inspired by those before me who have overcome enslavement and servitude and have prevailed in the struggle for the rights and freedoms of black Canadians. The following people have inspired me to explore a career that will have meaning for the black community and all Canadians.

Joe Fortes was a black Canadian who is renowned in my hometown's history. Fortes was a self-appointed, unpaid lifeguard on the beaches of English Bay. This great man dedicated and devoted his time to keeping the beaches clean and safe. He taught children how to swim and he also patrolled the beaches. His selfless work was noticed by the City of Vancouver, which appointed Fortes as Vancouver's first lifeguard. Fortes is credited with saving 29 lives. In 1910 the City of Vancouver honoured him by presenting him with a gold watch, a cheque and an illuminated address. Vancouver Public Library has a branch named after Joe Fortes. As well, the Joe Fortes Seafood and Chop Restaurant opened in Vancouver in recognition of this great man. Fortes was a lifeguard, educator and protector of countless children and patrons of the beach. He is truly a hero for many people in Vancouver, and importantly for me, he is a black Canadian hero.

Jarome Iginla is also inspirational. Iginla has contributed significantly to Canada's diverse image in his role as a leading black NHL player, and by having been the NHL's first black captain. He led the Calgary Flames for nine seasons and represented Canada at numerous tournaments, winning two gold medals with the National Hockey Team. In a statement to The Hockey News, Iginla said, "I am proud to be a black NHL player." Iginla's outstanding career in Canada's most popular sport, which is still dominated by Caucasian players, is an inspiration to many young black athletes like me. I have had negative experiences of racial discrimination on the soccer field, and Iginla's attitude and determination have inspired me to overcome my difficulties. By being a leader in what is referred to as "Canada's sport," representing our country at international tournaments and winning countless awards, Iginla has not only been a shining star through his contributions and achievements, he has also helped define Canada's broader society.

Carrie Best is a woman from Nova Scotia who helped to include black people in the diverse heritage of Canada through her remarkable accomplishments. Best was a journalist, writer, poet and activist. In 1946 Best founded Nova Scotia's first black owned and published newspaper, The Clarion. By 1947, Best had developed her small newspaper into Clarion Publishing Company Limited. Her aim was to work for the improvement of race relations. In 1952 Best started hosting the Quiet Corner radio show, a mixture of music and poetry, which aired for 12 years. Thereafter, Best was a columnist for a newspaper based in Pictou, Nova Scotia. Best was especially noticeable as she was a black woman at a time when women were regarded as second class citizens. Overcoming the societal stereotypes and prejudices against women and blacks was exceptionally challenging, which makes Best's achievements even more significant. Her contributions to her community and to Canada fostered a sense of multiculturalism in Canada and an appreciation of our diversity.

Finally, my sister Daniella, is one of my greatest motivators. Daniella has been involved with the Red Cross and many humanitarian projects for several years. She has mentored and guided me as I have navigated being black in Canada, and she has helped me through many problems and difficult situations where race was a defining factor. She graduated from Simon Fraser University with a Bachelor's degree in Health Sciences in 2014. She has volunteered in many aspects of community life, and in recognition of her contributions, she was awarded a prestigious TD Canada Trust scholarship. She is currently preparing to start her Master's degree. I am inspired by her approach to life's obstacles and by her work on behalf of others.

All of these great people have had an impact on my life and have motivated and inspired me to work towards having a positive impact on my community. My career goal is to improve Canada for all Canadians. Using my previous experiences and skill set, I would like to study communication, social sciences and human rights law to help make Canada a global model of social justice, peace and democracy.