City of Vaughan

11/01/2023 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 11/01/2023 12:09

Matthew Shoychet named 2023 Ward 5 Civic Hero

During today's Committee of the Whole (Working Session), Mayor Steven Del Duca, Ward 5 Councillor Gila Martow and Members of Council recognized Matthew Shoychet as the 2023 Ward 5 Civic Hero.

Matthew is a talented filmmaker and philanthropist whose debut film, "The Accountant of Auschwitz," was named runner-up for the People's Choice Award at the Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Festival. The film was nominated for six Canadian Screen Awards in 2020, winning four, including Best History Documentary Program or Series, Best Editorial Research, Best Visual Research and Best Music in a Non-Fiction Program or Series.

He is also a passionate philanthropist who is a member of the board of the Toronto Jewish Film Foundation, as well as the board of OneFamily Fund Canada, the leading charity organization providing Israeli victims of terror and war from all backgrounds therapeutic, financial and legal support.

QUOTES

"Vaughan's Civic Hero Awards are presented annually to one resident from each of the city's five wards. They recognize outstanding individual achievements and highlight the remarkable people who make Vaughan such an incredible place to live, work and visit. Matthew Shoychet's passion for film, combined with a deep connection to his Jewish heritage, is changing lives in Vaughan and beyond. Whether through the objective lens of his camera or his hard work on charitable foundations, Matthew is making a meaningful difference. He is a well-deserving recipient of the Ward 5 Civic Hero Award, and we are proud to acknowledge his hard work."
- Mayor Steven Del Duca

"Matthew Shoychet's talent and passion are making a difference not just in Vaughan but around the world. He is committed to creating positive change, nurturing young filmmakers and helping the victims of terror. In a very real way, Matthew's efforts are changing lives. I was pleased to nominate him as the 2023 Ward 5 Civic Hero and am grateful for everything he's done to make our community and our world a better, more compassionate place to live."

- Councillor Gila Martow, Ward 5

QUICK FACTS

  • Vaughan's Civic Hero Awards are presented annually to one resident from each of the city's five wards.
  • Recipients are nominated by their Local Councillor and acknowledged by Vaughan Council.
  • The awards began in 2005 to recognize outstanding achievements and individual contributions to the community.

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