Discovering diversity

TORONTO - Samantha Persaud and Janani Jeyaraman accepted the Discover Diversity Award Aug. 28 at the University of Toronto Multifaith Centre on behalf of Blessed Mother Teresa Secondary School.

The Canadian Centre for Diversity sponsors the award, which recognizes community-building, understanding and respect toward diverse religions.

Situated in Toronto’s Malvern area, Blessed Mother Teresa boasts 54 ethnicities and a variety of faith practices.

“Mom’s Muslim, Dad’s Hindu and I go to a Catholic school – I’m pretty much multifaith,” said Persaud.

“I’m just Hindu,” added Jeyaraman.

“It’s important to learn about other religions so we can connect,” said Persaud.

As part of the Discover Diversity Program, last year Megan Noah’s Grade 11 world religion class visited three places of worship in one day and prepared a multifaith ceremony.

The award includes a crystal sculpture and $1,000.