PROVIDENCE BAY—The Providence Bay Fair Ambassador program has been a central part of the popular agricultural fair for generations. This year, four young people have set their sights on winning the crown to represent Manitoulin Island.
Hannah McDonald
Hannah, sponsored by Nicklasson Construction, is from Little Current, 16, boasts brown hair and blue eyes and plans to attend Grade 12 at Marymount Academy in Sudbury come September.
In her spare time, Hannah enjoys playing guitar, piano and trumpet. She also bakes, cooks and enjoys painting.
Hannah lists Algoma Roman Catholic Diocese Bishop Thomas Dowd as a major influence and role model. “He taught me how to enjoy life, even during stress, leading me to my true calling,” she said.
Hannah lists her favourite thing about Manitoulin as “how pretty it is in all seasons and the diversity of the people. The Island is a welcoming place.”
When it comes to what winning the title of Providence Bay Fair Ambassador would mean to her, Hannah said that “it would be an honour and a way to make my great grandfather Ted Taylor proud. He showed me how to love and give back to the Island. Being nominated is a tribute to him.”
Alexis McVey
Alexis, 17, sponsored by Buoy’s Grocery, is from Evansville and has blonde hair and bluish-green eyes. She plans to attend Grade 12 at Manitoulin Secondary School in September. In her spare time, Alexis enjoys playing sports, is involved in robotics and likes to spend time with friends and family, writing books, painting and going hiking.
Alexis lists her mother as her biggest influence in life. “My mom has always been my role model,” she said. “I could be asked this question a million times and I would answer ‘my mom.’ She raised me single-handedly and showed me what it means to be a good and helpful person.”
Alexis’ favourite thing about the Island is “the close-knit community and the willingness to help. For example, fundraising for the robotics team and helping local youth with their endeavours.”
Winning the fair ambassador title would “mean that all my determination pays off,” she said, “and I learn that I can try again. It would be an honour to represent the Island at the Canadian National Exhibition as a Haweater.”
Alexandra Wilson-Zegil
Alexandra Wilson-Zegil, 17, is sponsored by Betty’s Convenience in her home town of Gore Bay. She has blonde hair and green eyes and plans to attend Manitoulin Secondary School for Grade 12 in September.
Alexandra lists writing with an exclamation mark when it comes to what she likes to do in her spare time. “I love writing stories,” she said. “I’ve even written and published a children’s book called ‘Robofriends and the Mowzone’ to raise money for my robotics team. I also write articles for The Manitoulin Expositor.”
Alexandra’s major influence/role model has been her parents, who she lists as “my biggest role models. They’ve taught me empathy and to think for myself. I want to be hardworking like my mom and caring like my dad. I wouldn’t have had the confidence to be student trustee, publish a book or be here without them.”
Alexandra’s favourite thing about Manitoulin Island is the “tightknit community. I have been the recipient of their generosity and seen it in action several times. The Providence Bay Fair is a reminder of the incredible connection we all share.”
As for the impact becoming fair ambassador would have on her, Alexandra said it would provide her with the opportunity to represent Manitoulin Island. “Share our unique perspective with others and advocate for environmental sustainability. This role would be a way for me to give back to my community and continue fostering the pride we have for our home.”
Lexi Young
Lexi, 17, sponsored by Lonely Creek Farms, is from Spring Bay and has blonde hair and blue eyes. She plans to attend Manitoulin Secondary School in September. In her time off, Lexi enjoys spending time with friends and family, making bracelets, bike rides and tanning.
She lists her grandmother as the major influence in her life. “She taught me to always stay positive and the importance of being kind to others. She means a lot to me and really cares about everyone around her. I especially admire her outlook on life.”
When it comes to her favourite thing about Manitoulin Island, Lexi points to how “life moves at a slower pace compared to the city and I appreciate being able to enjoy every moment of it. Plus, the scenery is so beautiful along with the people in the community.”
Lexi notes that “coming to the fair every year has been a tradition for me and I always loved being there. I remember wanting to run for ambassador when I was younger. Now that I’m older, it would feel like such a big accomplishment.”
