Ashley started a school service club, Project Equal, and its first environmental club, Green Team. He co-founded a community association, which also launched a seed library, fostering interconnectedness in his neighbourhood and empowering people to grow food for free and help heal their urban ecosystem. Ashley has helped run weekly litter clean-ups, neighbourhood food pantries, and mental resilience workshops. He has mentored other young, enthusiastic gardeners, and represented youth on a grant committee, funding a secondary school writing contest.

Sophie co-leads a sustainability club that engages students in activities to learn more about the environment and connect with community members. She founded a Youth Council in her hometown to provide opportunities for youth to learn and engage with the city of Penticton. Sophie is a ballet dancer and assistant teacher, a member of school leadership, and an SPCA volunteer. She loves to hike and explore with her Bernese mountain dog.

Chloe leads initiatives to improve educational opportunities in her community. As a founding member of Climate Education Reform BC, she has organized community workshops and learning resources, and campaigned for the provincial government to implement adequate climate change education into school curriculums. Beyond climate activism, she facilitated after-school community programs at local elementary schools in low-income neighbourhoods. Chloe also tinkers with projects and research involving technology, like artificial intelligence.

As Co-Chair of his graduation council, Gerardo plans several graduation and fundraising activities for his school. He is also a captain of his school’s First Responder Team. He volunteers for the Migrant Workers Ministry, supporting activities for migrant workers during their time in Canada. Gerardo also works in a retail store and enjoys photography.

Lily is currently pursuing an engineering degree at the University of British Columbia where she supports aspiring female-identifying engineers through mentorship and volunteering. She participates in harm-reduction initiatives on campus and in the community through naloxone education and training and facilitates community tap dancing sessions.

Muhaddisa is the VP of Operations at a non-profit organization providing youth opportunities. She is the Captain of her school’s public-speaking team and coaches junior students. She plans initiatives as part of her constituency youth council and local library teen council. Muhaddisa aids with food distribution for those who are unhoused and fundraises for humanitarian crises through her school club.

Joesh is a mental health & diversity advocate and public speaker. As the youth ambassador for the Stigma Free Society, Joesh has reached thousands of students in 500+ schools across Canada. He is also a TEDx speaker, athlete, school president, and co-investigator for a national health research grant.

Graeme is a bilingual student and Co-Founder of his high school chamber choir. He is Co-President of the Environmental Club and an elected member of the Principal’s Council. He is a volunteer judo instructor and was involved in restarting the junior program at his club. Graeme enjoys playing the piano, ultimate frisbee, and soccer.

Danya is the Founder of the Students of Colour Association at her school and is the student representative of the school district offering a youth perspective for future plans. She is an active member of her Muslim community, organizing meetings and initiatives for BIPOC youth, teaching Arabic to children, and volunteering at her local mosque.

Brynna is pursuing a B.Sc. at the University of British Columbia. She is involved with the university newspaper, which creates a platform for student voices. She also volunteers with a local animal rescue, where she works on animal care and community outreach.