Celebrating Burnaby’s Local Heroes: Announcing the 2026 winners

The City of Burnaby is proud to recognize four local heroes for their outstanding contributions to our community. This year’s extraordinary winners have generously given their time, skills and compassion to strengthen community connections across Burnaby, from public safety and arts programming, to education, seniors’ support and community building initiatives.

Join us in celebrating Burnaby’s 2026 Local Heroes:

Sarah Kilgour
Known for creating welcoming and loving spaces, Sarah has spent years helping Burnaby community programs run smoothly, giving countless hours to support families. She’s volunteered with the Clinton Elementary PAC since 2019, holding almost every role, has supported Volunteer Burnaby since 2005 and currently serves as Vice Chair of the Volunteer Grandparents Society.

Danelle Laidlaw
Through her wide‑ranging volunteer work, Danelle helps bring Burnaby’s community together. She contributes her time to seniors’ outreach, recreation and arts programs across the city. Danielle has spent countless hours supporting events in Burnaby such as Giro di Burnaby, Burnaby Blooms, Hats Off Day, Classic Car Weekend and Canada Day, and currently volunteers with Shadbolt Theatre and the Fit First Running Club.

Grant Withers
By using art to connect people and neighbourhoods, Grant helps make art accessible, encourages creativity and strengthens community connections. He created and promotes the Free Little Art Gallery in the Heights, volunteers with the Burnaby Arts Council and supports the StrideFest Burnaby Arts Festival, volunteering with these groups to improve and enrich the lives of Burnaby residents through art.

Chizuko Yamanaka
Chizuko Yamanaka helps seniors feel supported, connected and cared for through her long‑standing volunteer service. For over 10 years, she has volunteered with Citizen Support Services, providing wellness calls, shopping support and friendly connections. She also volunteers at the Confederation Seniors Centre, assisting with meal programs and creating a welcoming environment for older adults.

Learn more
Burnaby.ca/VolunteerAwards