The Human Rights Ambassador Award is a recognition of outstanding secondary school students who have made exceptional contributions to advancing the principles of human rights, equality, diversity, inclusion and/or anti-discrimination in their schools.
The 2025 Human Rights Office Award recipients are:
| Student | School | Town/City |
|---|---|---|
| Keyao Tang | Pierre Elliott Trudeau High School | Markham |
| Darleen Julman | Hodan Nalayeh Secondary School | Thornhill |
| Shariah Golding | Huron Heights Secondary School | Newmarket |
| Hamza Khokhawala | Dr. G. W. Williams Secondary School | Aurora |
Pictured from left to right: Shariah Golding, Keyao Tang, Darleen Julman, and Hamza Khokhawala
Keyao Tang
CEC East - Pierre Elliott Trudeau High School
Keyao, Equity Chair of the Trudeau Student Activity Council (TSAC), advocates for inclusive language, culturally specific celebrations, and accessibility in school events. She led Love Week, celebrating global social justice advancements, and collaborated with identity-affirming clubs (BSA, TSA, GSA, MSA, DSA) to foster belonging for diverse students. Keyao actively promotes the inclusion of Community Class students in TSAC events by liaising with teachers to ensure accessibility—such as scheduling less crowded participation times and aligning activities with students’ interests and motor skills. She is also developing a student-friendly video to explain Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and challenge stigma, using peer influence to reduce ableism in the school community.
Darleen Julman
CEC West - Hodan Nalayeh Secondary School
Darleen Julman is a passionate human rights advocate. As a Queer, Jewish individual from a low-income background, she excels academically while managing exceptionalities and mental illness. She founded her school’s Gender-Sexuality Alliance, creating a safe space for LGBTQ+ students and leading social justice initiatives. As the 2025 SpeakOUT conference emcee, she empowered queer youth through workshops on identity and intersectionality. Darleen also co-led a tutoring club to ensure academic support for all students. Seeing a lack of resources for queer and neurodivergent teens, she launched a youth group to help students embrace their identities and develop leadership. She also organized a telethon fundraiser, raising thousands for a struggling youth organization.
Shariah Golding
CEC North - Huron Heights Secondary School
Shariah worked tirelessly to establish the Black Student Association at Huron Heights Secondary School, demonstrating initiative and passion. She sought guidance from a superintendent at a Black History event, then collaborated with staff and students to bring the BSA to life. Beyond founding the BSA, she has planned a community dinner, organized arts events, and played a key role in student council. As a student ambassador for the Arts program, Grade 8 transition events, and French Immersion promotion, her leadership is exemplary. Shariah is a role model, creating inclusive spaces for Black students while celebrating the excellence of all students. Her dedication strengthens the Huron Heights community, fostering belonging and showcasing the diverse contributions of her peers.
Hamza Khokhawala
CEC Central - Dr. G. W. Williams SS
Hamza embodies respect, dignity, and justice. As founder of the Financial Literacy Club at Dr. G.W. Williams, he promotes educational equity by making financial knowledge accessible to all students. In grade 11, he helped develop anti-Islamophobia workshops for grade 9 and 10 students. Now in grade 12, he leads the Muslim Student Association and co-presides over the YRDSB Regional MSA, mentoring students and advocating for equity. He revived the first in-person Regional MSA meeting since COVID, restoring a vital space for connection. Hamza is also a key planner for Williams' first-ever Iftar dinner, promoting cultural awareness. His leadership is defined by action—creating programs, mentoring peers, and fostering a school culture where all students feel valued and empowered.