My name is Ethan Wilke, and I am honoured to be a recipient of the Kristian Domingo Memorial Award. Inspired by Kristian's courage, I want to recognize his legacy by persevering through adversity.

I was born in Vancouver and grew up in a family of teachers who continue to be role models for me to aspire to. As a child, I had high energy and a creative spirit, which would not always fit into every social situation. Thankfully, God guided my parents to place me into Christian day camps during the summer, which welcomed me and accepted me for who I was. The camp leaders inspired me to continue their mission, so I volunteered at childcare organizations for many years, which has led me toward the education track at St. Mark's College.

As a neurodiverse learner with difficulties in executive functioning, academic fluency was challenging from an early age, which was frustrating because I also had an incredible curiosity for the world. Throughout school, my executive functioning skills have had to work overtime to keep up with my interests and level of understanding. These challenges, combined with my perfectionism, create a crippling anxiety which, at times, inhibits me from accomplishing what I need to get done.

If it were not for the sacrifices and loving support of my parents, teachers, and Education Assistants, I could not have fathomed becoming an educator, let alone an academic. However, I have come to realize that my disabilities are also a blessing, as they contribute to my passion for learning, creativity, and linking ideas. With a GPA over 3.7 and a Kristian Domingo Memorial Award recipient, I would like to be an example of what a neurodivergent person can accomplish with courage, determination, support, and encouragement.

As a leader nourished by Christian communities, I am ready and willing to grow in knowledge, love of God, and service to others as a teacher in the Catholic school system.