#11 Forever Awards

Leadership, Faith & Pursuit of Excellence

Kristian Domingo, a graduate of the Class of 2014, was a “13 year man” who excelled as a student athlete and gained recognition for his dedication to both the football and basketball programs at Vancouver College.  He was recognized for his leadership, hard work and tenacity in doing the best he could, both on and off the field or court.

He chose #11 for his jerseys in memory of his friend Mitchell Ho, a reminder to him of someone who lived  life to the fullest, even in the face of adversity. #11 symbolized courage, hope and fight for Kristian. He received “Most Inspirational Award” on a number of occasions for his ability to draw the best from his teammates and classmates.

Kristian was diagnosed with a rare cancer the day after his graduation ceremony at Vancouver College. True to his character, he never gave up.  He rose to the challenges he faced and lived his life the best way he could.  Though he had to give up competitive sports, he did not want to fall behind and continued his studies at UBC to fulfill his dream of becoming a veterinarian.  Kristian found strength and courage from his faith, family and friends. He never lost hope.

Awarded annually at various high schools and post secondary institutions, the #11Forever Award is given to students who exemplify qualities of leadership, faith and pursuit of excellence by inspiring others within the community.  These individuals are the link to create a team environment where everyone can combine their efforts to excel together.  Concentrating on team efforts, these students are able to motivate through their actions and words to empower peers and teammates to become better versions of themselves.

MOST RECENT RECIPIENT

Ethan Wilke

Corpus Christi College

2023

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.