February 28, 2024 – Zeda Ali, a music teacher at Sunnyview Middle School, has been nominated for a prestigious MusiCounts award for her musical excellence. The winner of this award will be presented at this year’s JUNOs.
Zeda’s nomination is an exciting surprise for her teacher and our whole Brampton community, as it’s not every day that teachers receive recognition at the JUNO awards. She was nominated for the award by two fellow teachers, placing her among five nominees from across Canada.
The nomination celebrates Zeda’s commitment to inclusivity in the music room. She has been lauded for ensuring that students’ interests and cultures are reflected in the music they create. Zeda’s introduction of a steelpan program particularly empowers the Caribbean student population at Sunnyview, allowing them to connect with their heritage through music.
MusiCounts
MusiCounts, Canada’s music education charity, aims to provide all youth in Canada with access to music education. Since 2005, the annual MusiCounts Teacher of the Year Award has celebrated the achievements of music educators like Zeda who work tirelessly to preserve music education in their communities.
Zeda, who is an Indo-Guyanese Canadian, has spent her career advocating for marginalized communities. She grew up in Brampton surrounded by Caribbean music and Bollywood hits, which greatly influenced her musical journey. Zeda is proficient in playing numerous instruments, stating, “If I don’t know how to play it, I will learn.”
From the five nominees, one teacher will be chosen as the MusiCounts Teacher of The Year Award winner. The winner will be announced during the 53rd Annual JUNO Awards live broadcast from Halifax, NS, on March 24. They will receive a JUNO Award statuette, a $10,000 cash prize, and grants for their school through the MusiCounts School Music Program.
Reflecting on her nomination, Zeda expressed her gratitude for the evolving support for diversity and inclusion within the Peel District School Board (PDSB). She credits this progress for allowing her to showcase diversity comfortably.
PDSB is immensely proud of Zeda Ali and celebrates her accomplishments. They wish her the best of luck on March 24 as she represents not only Sunnyview Middle School but also the dedication to nurturing musical aspirations among all students.
