Exciting day for Young Citizen of the Year

Gladstone has volunteered his time to support causes including Ronald McDonald House, homeless shelters, breast cancer research, and the annual Bike-a-thon and Veterans’ Dinner events at Hunting Hills.

He’s also a multisport athlete having competed in track and field, soccer, cross-country running and swimming.

“It means a lot,” he said of the award. “Coming from far away from home to a different country is a big challenge. Being noticed and recognized with something this special is very special to me.

Gladstone is originally from India and lived in Dubai for 11 years before his family came to Canada.

“Just (for) a better life, and opportunities for me to expand and grow, to see that I get more opportunities in the workforce itself, and education,” he explained.

Gladstone and his family came from Dubai to Calgary before settling in Red Deer. He hates snow, but otherwise says there’s much to like about Red Deer.

“Red Deer, I feel, is really calm and is fairly welcoming. It’s a very strong community and I like that.”

Racism is something Gladstone has had to overcome through the years, but he feels things are heading on the right direction in that regard.

“Racial discrimination is hard on people sometimes. It doesn’t matter what race you’re from, just treat people equally.

“Just do your best. Be part of the community and always stay strong. Positive vibes, for sure.”

Gladstone is headed to Lethbridge College this fall to take their Civil Engineering Technology program and plans to pursue athletics there as well.

Much like John Donald, the 2019 Rotary Citizen of the Year, Gladstone says he’s not into community service for the recognition.

“I just want to be part of the community just to help it and grow from it.”

by Troy Gillard and Josh Hall

Exciting day for Young Citizen of the Year

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