The organizers of this weekend’s Orapex stamp show and exhibition are excited to welcome three exhibitors under the age of 10 in the national event. Hailing from Quebec, one exhibitor is eight years old, while the other two are each nine years old.
According to John Tooth, the chair of the popular Ottawa show, these youths are likely the youngest participants in years. “They’re the youngest and only youth exhibitors going back to at least 2017 and probably even further,” says Tooth. “These young people are the future of philately, so we are extremely pleased to have them as part of our exhibits.”
Tooth says the themes of the entries from the young exhibitors include skyscrapers, hearts, and “My Favorite People.” Additionally, there is an entry from a 21-year-old who is exhibiting for the first time.
Tooth says the four young philatelists are among 52 exhibitors, occupying a total of 155 frames at the May 4-5 show. The exhibits include two Courts of Honors. Returning to the Nepean Sportsplex, this year’s show theme is “Marcophily/Postmarks.”
Orapex features about 30 stamp dealers in its bourse. Additionally, the show presents an extensive array of society meetings, seminars, and study groups. Attendees are encouraged to bring their young family members to the Youth Booth to acquaint them with the enjoyable realm of stamp collecting. The awards reception, a weekend highlight, provides an opportunity for socializing after the exhibits have undergone judgment.