Since 2021, Mazda in Canada has honoured the Local Legends who make exceptional impacts within their communities. In 2023, we proudly supported extraordinary Canadian youth who go above and beyond to do the same. Mazda in Canada and its Retailers provided $1,000,000 in support of Canadian youth, including $750,000 in Retailer contributions and $250,000 awarded by Mazda Canada to five Rising Legends.
From hundreds of submissions from coast to coast, supporting some of the greatest causes Canada-wide, comes Mazda’s Rising Legends. Thank you, Canada, for every amazing submission. It is both heartening and humbling to know that so many youths are fighting for a greater future together. Without further ado, meet Mazda’s Rising Legends who are the recipients of $50,000 each to continue their work giving back.
"How can we make this place more equitable?”
At 21, Chloe is the executive director of NaloxHome, a non-profit that provides overdose education and naloxone training to the community. Her organization provides de-stigmatizing education on life-saving overdose treatment to combat the opioid epidemic in British Columbia. Rising Legends funding will help Chloe provide support so NaloxHome Educators can continue reaching students and community members to help those suffering with addiction.
”Clean and equitable water access is not only the right public health intervention, but it is a human right”
Through his work supporting Calgary community members experiencing homelessness, Bill observed that many people experiencing unsheltered homelessness need safer and more equitable access to water and hygiene facilities. His non-profit organization RadiCalgary provides dignity and support for those living with systemic vulnerabilities and poverty. Rising Legends funding will help Bill in supporting the rollout of mobile hygiene units, giving vulnerable individuals across Calgary safe access to showers and washrooms.
"Giving back to the culture and Mother Earth empowers me and enriches my life”
Nevaeh is an educator and dancer from the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation who, at just 15 years old, is already emerging as a role model for her community. She is dedicated to preserving and strengthening her culture, and actively works to make a positive impact in her community. Rising Legends Funding will provide her with resources for classes and cultural activities in her community, which will help her peers stay connected to their culture, language, and traditions. Nevaeh will also donate to causes that support Murdered & Missing Indigenous Women & Girls.
"I'd like to help people suffering, to get through it as I have”
Julia tragically lost her mother to cancer, which inspired her to help other women going through the challenges that follow a cancer diagnosis. Project Eli, a courageous effort named after her mother, provides hair prosthesis for women experiencing hair loss during their cancer treatment. Rising Legends funding will allow her to help more women living with cancer. In addition, as someone who lived with anorexia, Julia also plans to use some of the funds to support youth with eating disorders.
“I am dedicated to continuing my work to uplift our community and make a lasting difference in the lives of its members“
As a member of the Esgenoôpetitj First Nation, Kaylee is a youth mentor, volunteer, and is passionate about supporting elders affected by the Residential School system. She’s worked with the Esgenoôpetitj First Nation youth summer program and Esgenoôpetitj Child, Family & Community Services to aid in enhancing the lives of fellow residents, and continually strengthening her community. Rising Legends funding will help support the Esgenoôpetitj First Nation youth summer program, which encompasses sports, cultural teachings, art, cooking classes and field trips.
Mazda Local Legends
Mazda Canada and its Retailers announce the Local Legends program, pledging up to $1 million to rebuild and reopen legendary small businesses across the country during the height of the pandemic.
Mazda Canada and its Retailers celebrate the Local Legends in their communities and proudly contribute to their causes.
Mazda celebrates young Canadians who go above and beyond for their communities, providing $1 million in support for their charitable initiatives across Canada.