Mahna Yusuf Crowned Miss Teen Goodwill Ambassador Canada
This month, Mahna Yusuf, previously titled Miss Teen Newmarket, made waves at the national pageant by being crowned Miss Teen Goodwill Ambassador Canada. Her commendable efforts towards youth mental health and philanthropy played a pivotal role in her recognition.
A Journey of Philanthropy
Mahna’s inspiring journey began with a non-profit initiative dedicated to addressing youth mental health. Through various fundraising activities, she generated an impressive $10,000, significantly benefitting the Heart and Stroke Foundation. Her commitment to making a difference stood out during the five-day competition against young contestants from across Canada.
Charitable Initiatives in Focus
In reflecting on her charitable endeavors, Mahna shared, “I found the Heart and Stroke Foundation to be a really good place to donate to,” highlighting her personal connection. With her mother facing heart health issues, Mahna’s motivation to support this cause grew stronger, aiming to facilitate much-needed resources for families in similar situations.
Siblings United for a Cause
Working hand-in-hand with her younger sister, Laiba, Mahna successfully organized sales of poinsettias and fruit boxes. Through their joint initiative, “Stamp out Stigma for Mental Health,” the sisters managed to fill around 300 backpacks with essential school supplies, demonstrating their commitment to uplifting their community.
Advocating for Youth Mental Health
As Mahna prepares to enter Grade 9 in the international baccalaureate program at Dr. G.W. Williams Secondary School in Aurora this fall, she is steadfast in her goal of raising awareness about youth mental health issues. The pageant experience has been a cornerstone for her to build friendships and find support, countering the bullying she faced at school.
Giving a Voice to the Unheard
“It’s about giving a voice to those who felt unheard,” Mahna expressed passionately. With her new crown and title, she aims to normalize conversations surrounding mental health, particularly among young individuals. Her advocacy is not just a personal journey; it’s a commitment to fostering a supportive environment for her peers.
The Impact of Pageantry
Mahna Yusuf’s story is a testament to the power of youth activism and philanthropy. As she steps into her role as Miss Teen Goodwill Ambassador Canada, her mission is clear: to enlighten others about the importance of mental health resources and to create a platform for open discussions among youth.
