Sufey Chen's resume is a little intimidating but all inspiring.
During Monday's city council meeting the 16-year-old UNBC student - that is not a typo - was officially awarded the title of Prince George Youth of the Year for 2010.
"We are celebrating success. It is a pleasure for me to talk to you about Sufey Chen," said mayor Dan Rogers who bestowed the award together with Prince George Citizen publisher Hugh Nicholson. "She is an extremely talented young individual who has served the community well."
Chen has volunteered for 15 community organizations, is focused heavily into debating and performing arts. She takes part in musical theatre, speech arts, plays and teaches piano, is a Chinese lion dancer, a figure skater, was the founder and co-ordinator of the recent 'PG's Got Talent' showcase. She has given time to organizations like the Red Cross, Exploration Place, Prince George Symphony Orchestra, YMCA, and an anti-human trafficking initiative, among many others.
All the while she managed to skip three grades and position herself in university studying science and political science at UNBC.
"Not bad for - did I mention? - 16 years old," said Rogers. "Upon meeting Sufey you are instantly impressed."
Chen said that she had recently been forming an interest in going into medicine.
"I am extremely honoured to have this award," she said. "I have been able to meet some of the city's most inspirational people and it inspires me to go on and do more in the community."
Chen's volunteer choices are always based on her personal passions. She said she has four younger brothers she loves very much, and so her contributions tend to advance the interests of youth and children.
"I adore children," she said.
"We can't wait to see what you achieve with the rest of your life," said Nicholson, giving words to the stunned pleasure felt by the whole gallery taking in the impressive background Chen has already accrued.
Nicholson presented a cheque for $250 while Rogers presented a plaque.
"The Citizen is a longtime partner with the Youth of the Year initiative so thank you for your ongoing involvement in this," said Rogers.
