Congratulations, Juniper Balch

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : I rise today to recognize Dartmouth South's Juniper Balch, who will represent Nova Scotia at Surf Canada's Rip Curl 2022 Pro National Competition this weekend in Tofino, British Columbia. She's among 250 competitors from across the country, and the only Black Nova Scotian surfer to compete in her age group.

At just 14, Juniper is already making her mark in the sports and activism worlds. She volunteers with the North Preston Surf Program, where she teaches other Black youth to learn to surf, with the hope that she won't be the only one out on the waves in the future. She's also a soccer player and accomplished kayaker because, of course, she lives near Lake Banook.

Please join me in congratulating Juniper Balch on her achievements so far and wishing her good luck in Tofino this weekend.