Mississauga Students Win Prestigious Award

Cue the applause.

It's all in the name of history.

Four Mississauga teens are among 192 students from across the country who are sharing $200,000 in prizes as part of the 2017 Government of Canada History Awards.

The awards honour the exceptional work of university students studying history - for the significance of their research in Canadian history - or education, for the originality of an activity for teaching Canadian history.

Ahmed Abbas of Gordon Graydon Memorial Secondary School; Natalie Hall, Isaac Caldwell, and Nikha Jinosh of St.Paul Secondary School are among those being recognized.

They'll each receive a $1,000 prize.

High school students were required to submit an original piece of writing of 1,000 words maximum in the form of a historical essay, a historical work of fiction, or digital content.

Submissions had to address reconciliation with indigenous peoples, the First World War, Expo 67, Canadian identity, or the development of a new national historic site.

Their work was required to demonstrate original research, historical analysis, a good knowledge of the subject matter, and critical thinking skills.

Winners were selected by an independent jury made up history educators.

"I would like to congratulate the recipients of this year's Government of Canada History Awards and thank everyone who took part," said Minister of Canadian Heritage Melanie Joly.

"Our government is committed to encouraging Canadians—especially young people—to learn more about our country's rich history. We are proud to support the excellent work of Canada's History Society through the Canada History Fund."

More than 800 student submissions were received.

The Government of Canada History Awards were created in 2013. Their goal is to connect youth to their history by honouring the work of outstanding students who show an interest in great moments in Canadian history.