The shape: The top of the medal features a wave-like tail that represents the beauty of the Maritimes and how it was “shaped by the sea”. The athlete figures: The motif etched in the upper right corner and in the ribbon loop represents the athletes’ dedication and commitment to the Games. The motif itself depicts interlocking athlete figures which represent athletic spirit, unity and diversity. The ribbon loop: The arch that connects the ribbon and the medal was inspired by the gate of the Public Gardens. The blue rays: Influenced by the 2011 Games logo, the blue rays convey the energy, speed and power of both the event and the city. The red leaf: The inclusion of the leaf icon ties the design instantly to the Canada Games. Amber Whyley and Marlon Solis are friends who met in a marketing class at Saint Mary’s University in Halifax. When Marlon approached Amber about entering the 2011 Games Medal Design Competition, their shared appreciation for the arts and skills in design resulted in a winning concept that reflected the unique nature, theme, culture and spirit of both Nova Scotia and the Games. Amber Whyley Raised in Nassau, Bahamas, Amber came to Canada to pursue a bachelor degree in marketing at Saint Mary’s University. Amber, 23, chose to study in Halifax because she wanted to experience a different environment, landscape and culture in a city that was similar in size to her hometown. “Since I arrived in Halifax, I’ve made a lot of Canadian and international friends,” says Amber. “I have learned so much about myself and other cultures, which has made me grateful for my roots and helped me with the medal design concept for the Games.” Amber will graduate from Saint Mary’s in October and is setting her sights on the tourism and hospitality industries. Marlon Solis Before moving to Nova Scotia with his parents and sister two years ago, Marlon lived in Malaysia (where he was born), Indonesia and Thailand. His parents, who are from the Philippines and had always dreamed of living in Canada, settled in Nova Scotia through the Nova Scotia Nominee Program. “I love the Maritime feel, “says Marlon. “It’s so peaceful and less hectic than the cities I lived in Asia.” Marlon enrolled in Saint Mary’s University to earn a commerce degree with a major in marketing. Marlon also works for the university student newspaper, The Journal, as an Art Director and Layout Designer, and for the student union’s marketing department. Marlon plans to complete his degree and continue his studies at the Nova Scotia College of Art & Design where he has been accepted into their design program.
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