​The Town of Newmarket is proud to announce the recipients of this year’s Community Awards. The return of the program recognizes outstanding contributions of residents who make our town a better place to live, work, and play. This annual celebration honours individuals from environmental leaders to inspiring youth who have dedicated their time to making an impact in the community.

“This year’s award recipients are remarkable individuals whose everyday actions inspire the community around them,” says Mayor John Taylor. “Your ideas, your dedication and your impact do not go unnoticed. Thank you for making Newmarket well beyond the ordinary.”

Awards were given to this year’s recipients at a ceremony at Old Town Hall on Tuesday evening.

Outstanding Volunteer Contribution Award: Lili Li, Petra Fera, and Kathy Jetten

Sponsored by Magna International

This award honours volunteers whose long-term dedication and tireless efforts have significantly enriched Newmarket, recognizing the power of giving time and energy to make a lasting difference.

• Lili Li champions initiatives supporting seniors and charitable causes, and continues to play an active role in multicultural initiatives in Newmarket. In fact, Lili organized Newmarket’s very first Lunar New Year Celebration.
  
• Petra Fera has dedicated countless hours to promoting sport and local causes, including championing youth soccer and leading community programs like Holiday Heroes and the Food Pantry.
  
• With more than 30 years of service in healthcare, arts and social support, Kathy Jetten’s compassion and leadership have touched countless lives.
  
  

Community Innovator Award: Johanna Liburd and John Armstrong

Sponsored by Neighbour Media

This award is given to someone who has introduced a creative solution, idea or initiative that has positively impacted the community. This award celebrates ingenuity and bold thinking that drives progress in Newmarket.

• Johanna Liburd and John Armstrong collaborated and brought creativity to the community with their innovative idea. They partnered to transform neighbourhood utility boxes into vibrant public art all around Newmarket, engaging students and beautifying the Town.
  
  

Random Acts of Kindness (ROAK) Award: Stacy Coster

Sponsored by Juliane Goyette, Financial Advisor Riverwalk Wealth

This award recognizes a person or group whose spontaneous and selfless act of kindness has had a lasting positive effect, celebrating everyday heroes who inspire goodwill and compassion in our community.

• Through her work with Stonehaven Elementary School's nutrition program, Stacy Coster ensures every child has access to healthy food while quietly supporting students and families. Her thoughtful actions create a ripple of kindness that touches the entire school community.
  
  

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Award: Gloria Malcolm

Sponsored by the Newmarket Public Library

This award honours individuals or organizations who are leaders in promoting equity, inclusion, and belonging, actively working to break down barriers and create a more inclusive Newmarket.

• Gloria Malcolm has been a pillar of support for the Newmarket African Caribbean Canadian Association (NACCA) since its inception, creating a sense of belonging through hospitality and cultural programming. Gloria’s leadership, mentorship and dedication have strengthened NACCA’s mission and made Newmarket more inclusive and vibrant.
  
  

Healthy Lifestyle Advocate Award: Mukin Mutaal

Sponsored by Club Pilates Newmarket

This award honours those who champion wellness in our community. Through physical activity, mental health initiatives, or promoting balanced living, they encourage residents to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.

• Mukin Mutaal has inspired countless residents to embrace mindfulness and healthy living. For years, Mukin has led free meditation classes at Fairy Lake, creating a welcoming space that fosters connection, balance, and community. His efforts have grown into a movement that combines yoga, meditation, and compassion for all.
  
  

Mentoring Youth Award: Glenn Marais

Sponsored by Roadhouse & Rose Funeral Home

This award honours someone who has shown extraordinary dedication to mentoring and empowering youth, inspiring the next generation through guidance and encouragement.

• Glenn Marais has spent years uplifting youth through music, creativity and kindness. From launching the Kindness Campaign to founding Music in Mind programs that promote mental health and inclusion, Glenn’s work has reached thousands of students and sparked positive change across Canada.
  
  

Environmental Award of Merit: Magdalena Livensky

Sponsored by Milwaukee Tool

This award celebrates individuals, groups, or organizations dedicated to environmental stewardship. It recognizes exceptions efforts to protect, preserve and enhance Newmarket’s natural surroundings.

• Magdalena Livensky leads by example through hands-on action. From annual community clean-ups to daily litter collection with her family, Magdalena has turned everyday walks into opportunities to care for the environment and inspire others.
  
  

Seniors Champion/Advocate Award: Azar Mohammadghorbanian

Sponsored by Delmanor

This award recognizes an individual or organization that has made a meaningful contribution to improving the lives of seniors in Newmarket through advocacy, programs, or personal commitment.

• Azar Mohammadghorbanian has dedicated herself to creating connection and support for seniors. From volunteering with CHATS to offering weekly phone calls to isolated older adults, and helping at the local food pantry, she brings warmth and care to every interaction. Azar’s efforts foster inclusion and community for those who need it most.
  
  

Raymond J. Twinney Memorial Youth Award: Neetya Pujara

Sponsored by Newmarket Hurricanes, Junior A Hockey Team

Named in memory of former Mayor Ray Twinney, this award honours a young person who demonstrates strong leadership, civic responsibility, and a commitment to making a positive difference in the community.

• Neetya Pujara is an inspiring leader and advocate for gender equity in STEM. She serves as a “Hackergal” and Canadian Association for Girls in Science (CAGIS) Ambassador, mentors youth, leads school clubs, and volunteers with local organizations – all while using her voice to champion inclusion and community engagement.
  
  

Citizen of the Year: Rick Reininger

Sponsored by Alexander Muir/Venvi Living

This prestigious award honours an individual who exemplifies outstanding community spirit, leadership, and volunteerism. The recipient is someone who consistently goes above and beyond to make Newmarket a better place.

• Rick Reininger has shown extraordinary leadership and generosity. From spearheading Southlake’s Men’s Health Initiative to raising millions through campaigns for hospice care and diagnostic imaging, his tireless efforts have strengthened healthcare in the community and supported countless local charities.
  

Congratulations to all of the recipients!