The Lambton Kent District School Board (LKDSB) proudly celebrates the athletic and academic achievements of the 2026 recipients of the Stefanko Award.
The Stefanko Award honours one male and one female secondary student-athlete from the Sarnia-Lambton area who have demonstrated excellence in both athletics and academics, along with outstanding leadership and involvement in extracurricular activities.
This year's male recipient is:
Yaroslav "Yarko" Zelenchuk, Lambton Central Collegiate & Vocational Institute (LCCVI) - Yarko has demonstrated exceptional commitment to both his academic pursuits and athletic endeavours throughout his high school career. He has maintained outstanding academic averages, earning Honours Society recognition in Grades 9 and 12, and the Principal's Roll of Distinction in Grades 10 and 11.
A dedicated and versatile athlete, Yarko has made significant contributions across multiple sports. He was named Tennis MVP for consecutive years and earned a bronze medal at OFSAA in Grade 12. He also competed at OFSAA in swimming for four consecutive years, participated in track and field (javelin and discus) from Grades 9 through 11, and played badminton in Grades 9 and 10, advancing to SWOSSAA competition.
Yarko's journey is one marked not only by achievement, but by remarkable resilience. He joined the LKDSB community in Grade 9 after arriving in Canada from Ukraine with his family, having fled war in his home country. At the time, Yarko spoke no English. Today, he not only meets but exceeds academic expectations, a testament to his determination and growth.
Teachers describe Yarko as someone whose quiet beginnings revealed "a tremendous capacity for growth and resilience that has blossomed." He is now a self-assured and empathetic leader within the school community, consistently seeking opportunities to mentor other newcomer students and offer the same compassion and support he once received.
A dedicated and curious learner, Yarko is driven by a profound desire to make meaningful change. He has extended his impact beyond the classroom through a service trip to Africa, where he contributed to the construction of clean water infrastructure and engaged with local students.
Yarko plans to pursue his passion for math and technology in the Automation and Instrumentation Technology program at Lambton College this fall.
"We are proud to recognize Yarko as this year's Stefanko Award recipient," said LKDSB Chief Executive Officer Gary Girardi. "His story is one of perseverance, growth, and excellence. Yarko exemplifies what it means to be a student-athlete and a leader, and his contributions have made a lasting impact on his school community."
"We also want to recognize all of the LKDSB students who were nominated for this award. Your dedication, leadership, and achievements continue to inspire us all."
The female recipient was Taryn Stoukas from St. Patrick's Catholic High School.
