Annabelle Rayson, a Grade 12 student at St. Patrick’s Catholic High School in Sarnia, has won the top prize from among 36 international entries at the Stockholm Junior Water Prize Awards 2022.  In May 2022, Annabelle was the winner of the Canada-wide Science Fair, for her project Plankton Wars: An Innovative Analysis of Daphnia Genotype Biomanipulation for Algae Bloom Prevention.

In presenting her with award, the panel of international judges in Stockholm called her research a “potential solution for a multi-faceted global problem” and declared that “the fight against harmful algae blooms and their detrimental affects has begun.”

Describing Annabelle as dedicated, passionate and creative, the judges said she “…has conducted extensive bio-inspired research to address this pervasive issue.”

In accepting the award, Annabelle said she was “absolutely honoured to be on the stage representing Canada” and also honoured to “represent women and girls in STEM.”

“Quite often we don’t see a lot of us out there.  So I’m very proud to be standing up here to represent any little girl at home who dreams of having her own microscope and lab coat!” says Miss Rayson.

“This is absolutely outstanding recognition for a very enthusiastic, committed and inspiring student,” says Scott Johnson, Director of Education.  “Well done Annabelle!”

Annabelle returns from Sweden later this week and a short time later leaves for the World Science Fair in the Netherlands.

She is one of two student trustees, who have been appointed by the Board to serve during the 2022-2023 school year.

To stream audio and video of the presentation ceremony in Stockholm click here.