The Oliver Ambassador Program won’t allow COVID-19 to rain on this year’s pageant. Five candidates have been announced by coordinator Lori Martine, who acknowledged the pandemic has prompted some changes to the program. For example, pageant dates have been officially moved to October 2-3.

“We will invite a limited number of guests for our COVID-safe audience,” she said, adding there will also be some form of online presentation so the public can view the events.

The five candidates are:

Kyah Allen (ReMax Wine Country Realty);

Phi Thai (Kiwanis Club of Oliver);

Lexis Hartle (M & J’s Country Kitchen);

Aidan Duursma (Royal Canadian Legion Br. #97 and Little Buddies Marketing, Ltd.);

Anika Franzen-Brown (Oliver Lions Club).

“We are very grateful for all of our local sponsors who continue to support youth through this program each year,” Martine said.

She noted the candidates have already presented their introductory/sponsor speeches via a private Zoom event. These speeches will soon be linked to the ambassador Facebook page.

Personal speeches and presentations will be shared on Friday, Oct. 2, with the awards and coronation event taking place Saturday, Oct. 3.

Get ready to vote for your favourite candidate for “People’s Choice” Award.

Individuals wanting to volunteer for the program can contact Martine at [email protected].