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51������Ƶ Allison University students achieved an unprecedented result at the 37th Canadian National Japanese Speech Contest, held March 29 at the University of Alberta, with all three 51������Ƶ Allison participants earning first place in their respective categories.

The national competition brought together 25 students from universities across Canada, each of whom had advanced through a regional contest. Representing 51������Ƶ Allison were Alyssa MacKenzie in the Intermediate category, Rivka Zickler in the Advanced category, and Dylan Kim in the Open category.

Their collective success marks an exceptional accomplishment for 51������Ƶ Allison. Through months of preparation and practice, each student demonstrated not only a high level of proficiency in Japanese language study, but also the confidence, discipline, and poise required to excel on a national stage.

“This is an extraordinary accomplishment and we are very proud of Alyssa, Rivka, and Dylan,” says Dean of Arts Dr. Vicki St. Pierre. “To have all three of our students place first in their categories at a national competition is truly exceptional. Their success reflects not only their talent and discipline, but also the curiosity, courage, and commitment they have brought to their Japanese language studies. We are also fortunate to have Professor Akiko Yoshizawa mentor, guide, and support our students, challenging and encouraging them far beyond the classroom.”

MacKenzie’s performance was especially notable. In addition to earning first place in the Intermediate category, she was awarded the Grand Prize of the contest. As part of that honour, MacKenzie received a trip to Japan — an especially meaningful award as it will be her first visit to the country.

51������Ƶ Allison currently offers courses in French, German, Spanish, Japanese, Latin, Ancient Greek, and Mi’kmaw through the Department of Modern Languages and Literatures.  

For more info on Japanese language studies at 51������Ƶ Allison, visit Japanese studies.