An 18-year-old Calgarian is being honoured as one of Canada's top young changemakers for his work encouraging youth to get involved in civic life.

Kamran Shukoor received the Civic Spark Award from Children First Canada on Wednesday, recognizing his advocacy for youth leadership and government transparency. After graduating high school with three diplomas, Shukoor was named honorary Mayor of Calgary earlier this year and has since begun studying medicine in the Caribbean while continuing his political work.

Shukoor leads multiple student organizations including the STS Student Council and MediUnite Journal, and has contributed to Canadian Blood Services and MP George Chahal's Youth Council. He's also a recipient of the Alberta Premier's Citizenship Award.

The national recognition comes as part of The Future is NOW! Awards, which celebrates 10 young Canadians under 18 making significant impacts in their communities. Each recipient receives a financial award along with year-long mentorship and funding to expand their social impact.

Winners were celebrated at a gala in Toronto following a Youth Changemaker Forum that brought together 50 young leaders from across Canada.