Two St. Michaels University School (SMUS) students are being recognized among Oak Bay’s most inspiring young people, as Grade 10 student Michaela Yee and Grade 8 student Isaiah Pereira have been named recipients of this year’s Young Exceptional Star (YES) Awards.
Presented by the Young Exceptional Star Award Committee in partnership with the District of Oak Bay, the YES Awards celebrate youth from Grade 6 and up who demonstrate outstanding achievement, leadership, and character. Recipients are recognized for making meaningful contributions in areas such as academics, arts, athletics, citizenship, volunteerism, and perseverance in the face of challenges. Michaela and Isaiah were among just 11 students honoured at a community celebration held at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel on Feb. 25.
Together, these awards reflect the promise, compassion, and impact of the next generation, recognizing young people who are already helping shape their communities for the better.
Isaiah Pereira — Innovation, Leadership, and Purpose
For Isaiah Pereira, curiosity is not just a mindset, it is a catalyst for action. A thoughtful learner, natural leader, and passionate problem solver, Isaiah is known for lifting up those around him while pursuing his own learning with energy and determination.
At school, Isaiah contributes as a Student Ambassador and member of the Athletics Council, while staying actively involved in basketball, soccer, and rugby. Whether in the classroom, on the field, or collaborating with peers, he approaches every opportunity with maturity, enthusiasm, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact.
Isaiah’s most notable achievement this past year came on the national stage. In 2025, he represented his community at the Canada-Wide Science Fair, the country’s largest youth STEM event, where more than 500 students showcase original research and innovation. There, he earned a Gold Medal in the Junior category and received the Youth Can Innovate Award for his project The Smart Sleeper — a device designed to improve sleep quality by monitoring environmental factors and offering practical ways to optimize rest.
Blending technical ingenuity with empathy, Isaiah created his invention to address a challenge he experienced personally, with the hope of helping others. His achievements, combined with his leadership and generosity of spirit, make him a role model within the school and beyond.
Michaela Yee — Excellence in Leadership, Service, and the Arts
Michaela Yee distinguishes herself through a remarkable balance of academic achievement, community leadership, and artistic and athletic commitment. Focused, disciplined, and service-minded, she approaches every pursuit with quiet confidence and determination.
Academically, Michaela challenges herself at the highest level, studying Mandarin 12 as a Grade 10 student and earning both the SMUS Dyson Cup and the All-Around Achievement Award. She has also represented the school at the Vancouver Island Regional Science Fair, reflecting her intellectual curiosity and commitment to learning beyond the classroom.
Her leadership extends well beyond academics. As the Vital Youth Liaison with the Victoria Foundation, she helps allocate funding to local charities. She serves on the Sustainability Council and Red Cross Club, volunteers at the Howard Café, leads initiatives through Girl Up Club, and gives her time to Science Venture camps and Our Place Society.
A dedicated violinist of ten years, Michaela has earned provincial and national recognition for her performances. She is also a coxswain on the SMUS rowing team and a competitive field hockey player, balancing demanding athletic commitments with academic excellence. Across every area, she demonstrates resilience, humility, and a genuine commitment to making a difference.
The recognition of Michaela and Isaiah at the YES Awards highlights not only their individual accomplishments, but also the values of leadership, service, and perseverance that define the award itself. Their contributions within the school and broader community reflect a deep commitment to making a meaningful difference, and SMUS is proud to celebrate their achievements and the example they set for others.
