The following statement was read in the House of Assembly today by the Honourable Lela Evans, Minister of Women and Gender Equality:

Speaker, I rise to recognize a remarkable group of young women who are recipients of the 100th Anniversary of Women Achieving the Right to Vote and Hold Public Office Scholarship Program.

Scholarships valued at $1,000 each have been presented to 100 young women in grades 10-12 from communities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.

The Office of Women and Gender Equality received an impressive 284 applications for the scholarship program from young women eager to share their achievements, leadership, and community involvement.

I extend my sincere congratulations to all applicants and commend them for stepping forward to share their accomplishments and aspirations.

The future of Newfoundland and Labrador is bright because it is being shaped by these talented, determined young women who are committed to building stronger communities, expanding opportunity, and ensuring our province continues to thrive for generations to come.

A century after women in this province secured the right to vote and lead, today’s young women remind us that democracy thrives when every voice is empowered. Their leadership, courage, and commitment to community light the path to a future that is brighter, more equitable, and full of possibility for all of us.

Thank you, Speaker.