From Vision to Legacy: Jana Hamdalla Ignites a Movement at Eastglen High
When Jana Hamdalla transferred to Eastglen High School in spring 2024, she brought more than just school supplies—she brought purpose. A passionate member of the Interact club at her former school, Jasper Place High, Jana quickly noticed something missing at Eastglen: a student-led community service club.
Instead of seeing a gap, she saw an opportunity.
Jana stepped up. She asked the right questions. She rallied her peers. And she didn’t wait for permission—she got to work. With a small team of 10 like-minded students, she began organizing service activities and building momentum toward forming Eastglen’s own Interact club.
Her determination didn’t go unnoticed. With support from District Interact Chair Abinash Saravanan and YEG Passport Rotary Club's Youth Services Chair Mark Lindsay, Jana’s initiative gained real traction. They provided guidance and sponsorship as the group found a faculty advisor, Ms. Engstrom, and started growing fast.
By March, the club was officially chartered—with 30 members strong.
And on April 13, 2025, Jana was recognized with one of Rotary’s highest honors: the Paul Harris Fellowship. Presented by YEG Passport Rotary Club President Marilyn Mucha and District 5370 Governor Brian Edwards, the award celebrated the impact of one student’s leadership and her power to create lasting change.
Jana’s work didn’t just launch a club—it sparked a culture of service at Eastglen High. And she’s not stopping there. In the fall, she plans to attend the University of Alberta and join the Rotaract club to keep that mission alive.
Jana Hamdalla is proof that one person, with the right mindset and a little support, can move a community forward.
