On Thursday April 18, 2024 I found out some very exciting news. I was informed that I would be receiving
this years ETFO Non-member International Humanitarian Award. I received
the award on Wednesday
May 15, 2024. I am truly honoured and humbled
to be the 2024 winner of the Elementary Teachers Federation Ontario International Humanitarian Award!
"This award may be granted each year to an individual or a group of individuals who do not hold ETFO membership, but have given outstanding service to supporting children in the global community. The recipient shall receive acknowledgement by ETFO and a Certificate of Recognition from the union's president."
For more information on this award, check out ETFO's website here: https://www.etfo.ca/about/etfo-awards
I will be featured in their Federation's Annual Meeting later in August. This is the media release from ETFO. Visit their website for more: https://www.etfo.ca/2023-24-award-recipients
"The Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario (ETFO) has presented its 2024 International Humanitarian Award for a Non-ETFO member to Vickram Bachan. This award is presented annually to an individual or a group of individuals who do not hold ETFO membership but have given outstanding service to supporting children in the global community.
Bachan, an Educational Assistant with the Toronto District School Board and member of CUPE Local 4400, has enthusiastically implemented several exciting programs to engage and serve students’ needs, as well as the needs of children locally and around the globe. He started the Harry Potter & Fantastic Beasts Fan Club, the Poetry for Hope Writing Club, spearheaded the United for Ukraine Food Drive, ran a poetry book writing project during the pandemic called Planting Seeds of Change, and started the Dobby's Socks and Gloves Drive.
At each of the schools he has worked at, Bachan innovates by setting up one or more programs that particularly benefit the students of that school. The projects either give services and aid, such as clothing and food for Ukrainian refugees and the homeless in Toronto, raise money for organizations like the Lumos Foundation, or spread the values of the Toronto District School Board, including globalism, anti-poverty, anti-racism, peace, education, and sharing with the less fortunate.
Bachan has a passion for literacy, the curriculum and working in classrooms, and has a way of bringing out the best in his students, helping them find their courage and voices. He is a champion of inclusivity, equity, and supporter of mental health initiatives. His compassion, kindness, and leadership have benefited children locally and worldwide. His ability to inspire a love of learning in students of all backgrounds and abilities is inspirational and admirable."
Thank you very much to ETFO for this incredible recognition!
I recently had an interview with Atmosphere Press to discuss my writing. I talk a bit about one of my books, a collection of poetry I completed and a couple of years ago and am currently seeking publication for. 
