On June 7, 2026, the VYAS Youth Starry Night Gala 2026 was successfully held in Richmond, bringing together youth volunteers, families, community partners, educators, government representatives, and supporters to celebrate another year of youth leadership, volunteer service, and community impact.

One of the highlights of the evening was the presentation of the Annual Volunteer & Community Awards, recognizing outstanding individuals and teams for their dedication, leadership, and contributions to the community. Honors included the Top 10 Outstanding Volunteer Award, Outstanding Leadership Award, Outstanding Community Contribution Award, Outstanding Cultural & Arts Exchange Award, Outstanding Project Award, and Outstanding Team Award, celebrating the remarkable achievements of VYAS members throughout the year.

The Gala also marked the official installation of the 2026–2027 VYAS Board of Directors, symbolizing the continuation of youth leadership and VYAS's commitment to empowering the next generation of community leaders.

Another milestone of the evening was the launch of two new initiatives: Starlight Bookshop, a community-driven literacy project supporting youth learning and charitable giving, and Ignite Art Show, a platform that showcases young artists while promoting creativity, inclusion, and community participation.

This year's Gala also achieved an important fundraising milestone, raising CAD $21,580 in support of the Youth Mental Health One-on-One Companion Program. The funds will help provide personalized mental health support and meaningful companionship for young people in the community.

As VYAS continues to grow, the organization remains committed to creating meaningful opportunities for youth through volunteer service, leadership development, cultural exchange, and community engagement. By empowering young people to lead with compassion and purpose, VYAS continues to inspire positive change and build a stronger, more connected community.