Celebrating CISVA Students’ Vision for Reconciliation: Looking Back at Our Imagine a Canada Honourees
St. Pius X teacher Marielle Lung with Grade 5 students Maksimas Viskotas, and Olivia Wall, winners of the Imagine a Canada peace and reconciliation contest. Lung said she was “absolutely amazed” by her students’ level of thought, reflection, and understanding of the sensitive topic. (St. Pius X photos)
A few years ago, two exceptional Grade 5 students from St. Pius X Elementary in North Vancouver were recognized on a national stage for their creative contributions to truth and reconciliation in Canada. Today, as we continue our journey of learning and action in 2025, their story remains a powerful reminder of the role Catholic education plays in shaping compassionate, informed, and engaged citizens.
Maksimas and Olivia.
Honouring Young Voices: Maksimas Viskontas and Olivia Wall
In 2022, Maksimas Viskontas and Olivia Wall were selected as British Columbia’s representatives in the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation’s “Imagine a Canada” program, joining only 12 students chosen nationwide. Their projects—an insightful essay by Maksimas and a reflective song by Olivia stood out for their honesty, creativity, and vision for a reconciled Canada.
Maksimas’ Essay: Maksimas’ writing explored the complex history of residential schools and the ongoing process of reconciliation. He challenged readers to reflect on Canada’s past, present, and future, asking, “Is what we’re doing enough?” and envisioning a country where peace, equality, and joy are realities for all.
Olivia’s Song: Olivia composed and performed “Hand in Hand,” a song that captures the journey of a young girl learning about residential schools for the first time and calling for collective action: “Let’s build our home, a native land, together we will walk hand in hand”.
Both students’ works were celebrated at a national ceremony and featured in the NCTR’s gallery of youth visions for reconciliation.
A Classroom Rooted in Truth and Action
This achievement was guided by their teacher, Mrs. Marielle Lung, who led her class in deep conversations about residential schools and reconciliation. Through books like I Am Not a Number and reflective journaling, students moved from learning history to expressing their hopes for the future through essays, songs, and art. Mrs. Lung reflected, “As a Catholic educator, it’s our duty and responsibility to engage our students and future generations in difficult but necessary conversations. I am proud of all my students for using the power of their voice in envisioning a reconciled Canada in their own way”.
Why This Story Matters in 2025
While several years have passed since Maksimas and Olivia’s recognition, their example continues to inspire. Their projects illustrate how Catholic schools within CISVA are committed to truth and reconciliation, not just as a curriculum topic, but as a lived value. Their voices remind us that reconciliation is an ongoing journey, one that requires awareness, empathy, and action from all generations.
How to Explore Their Work
To honour their legacy and support ongoing learning, we invite the CISVA community to:
Read Maksimas’ Essay: Discover his thoughtful exploration of Canada’s history and his vision for the future by accessing his full essay.
Listen to Olivia’s Song: Engage with the lyrics and message of “Hand in Hand”.
View the Certificate and Letter: See the official recognition from the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation.