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Rochelle is a dedicated project manager in international relations and professor who is passionate about promoting sustainable communities, engaging youth in political discourse, and inspiring positive change. With over a decade of experience in organizational development, community engagement, and stakeholder relations, she is a recognized leader in sustainable development. Rochelle’s unwavering commitment and exceptional leadership skills make her a highly respected advocate for a more equitable and connected world.

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Michele Partridge was elected to White Rock City Council in 2022. She is an award-winning local business owner, acting instructor, public speaking and media coach, and a well-known leader in numerous community groups. Michele moved to White Rock with her husband and two children over 20 years ago and built a successful performing arts business (The Drama Class). She sold TDC during COVID and still teaches online worldwide. In 2017, she co-founded the Peninsula Arts and Culture Alliance, an organization that supports local artists and promotes arts and culture-related businesses and tourism. Michele launched Your Confidence Coach in 2020. She helps her clients harness their confidence superpowers in public speaking, business and beyond. Michele has served on multiple boards, advisory committees, groups and associations including the White Rock Business Improvement Association, Soroptimists International of White Rock, the Arts and Culture Advisory Committee, and the Economic Development Advisory Committee for the City of White Rock. She currently is the Chair of the Public Art and Culture Advisory Committee.

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Leeann is responsible for the strategy and leadership of the Teaching & Learning Commons. This includes overseeing the development of resources, training, and other supports for faculty professional development and the enhancement and ongoing maintenance of KPU’s suite of learning technologies. She also oversees KPU’s open education initiatives, including the creation, adaptation, and adoption of open educational resources, the zero textbook cost (ZTC) program, and support for open pedagogy and open education research. Her portfolio also includes the development and execution of a new strategy for Continuing & Professional Studies and oversight of a Ministry-funded project designed to provide supports for experienced learners and working adults.

Previously an experienced faculty member, Leeann holds a Post Masters Certificate in Curriculum Design and Doctorate in Education from Athabasca University. Leeann is an advocate for the culture of folio thinking pedagogy and its potential to revolutionize KPU’s learning landscape. She is also an Appreciative Inquiry Facilitator and Trainer.

Leeann loves to garden, quilt and relax at her island home and is always up for a culinary challenge as a self-taught chef.

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I am a proud mom to three wonderful children and wife to an amazing woman, Melissa. I am former Military and RCMP and I am the MLA for Surrey South with BC United. I am the Shadow Minister for Mental Health, Addictions & Recovery as well as for Education. I am passionate about my work and strive to listen and assist constituents with the challenges they experience in their daily lives. I am inspired as an MLA as I feel confident that I can help make a change to improve lives, with my ability to listen and connect best, advocate for the rights of people and put forward legislation that is thoughtful, fair and understands the complexities of the issues. I enjoy being physically active, growing as a positive social media influencer with thought provoking, supportive posts and remain present and supportive to my family, my incredible support network.

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Jessica is a Level 4 HVAC/R Apprentice at her family’s business, Cam Cool Refrigeration Inc., where they specialize in commercial and industrial refrigeration and air conditioning. She is also a member of Women in HVAC/R Canada. She loves her career in the skilled trades and wishes to bring more awareness to women that these careers are open to them too, not just the boys. These careers are challenging, rewarding and lucrative. She documents her apprenticeship on Instagram at @HVACjess and on YouTube as “The HVAC Diaries” where she has a weekly vlog about her job.

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For several decades, JoAnne Marlow has offered her expertise in career planning and helping others (16 years and up) to determine and secure their ideal job. As a professor at Kwantlen Polytechnic University, she has contributed her knowledge to her Applied Communication students and others, based on her latest best-seller, “How to Find Your Ideal Job in a New Country – A Detailed Guide for International Students.” Over the years, she has helped thousands of young adults and leaders determine how to find the best jobs for themselves and to hire ideal candidates for their companies. As an educator/trainer, professional speaker, and Certified life and career coach, she is an international best-selling published author of over 16 books and articles. She is passionate about lifelong learning and holds degrees from Simon Fraser University in Education (Economics/Commerce) and an MA in Leadership and Training from Royal Roads University.

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Monica has been practicing exclusively family law in the Langley area since completing her law degree at Thompson Rivers University in 2018. Monica has amassed considerable experience litigating, negotiating, and resolving family matters. Monica successfully provides legal representation at both the Provincial Court and Supreme Court levels, and achieves positive outcomes for clients in private mediations through skillful, efficient problem-solving and advocacy. Monica was raised in White Rock, B.C., and developed an interest in family law and alternative dispute resolution in her first year of law school. Having personally experienced the divorce process, she understands it is a stressful time that compels you to turn your mind to your entitlements. Prior to law school, Monica taught English to students from across the globe. Monica enjoys spending her free time with her miniature dachshund, Hunny, and house cat, Flash.

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Trina Prince (they/them), is a trans, non-binary, white, disabled, neurodivergent, fat person, with German and Polish ancestry. They grew up on Anishinabewaki and Algonquin territories, and they currently live on the lands of the Kwikwetlem, Qayqayt, Tsleil-Waututh, Squamish, and Musqueam First Nations. Working for institutes such as Nipissing University and BCIT, Trina has devoted time to being actively involved in many meaningful initiatives which include supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ advocacy and celebration, reconciliation, accessibility, mental health, sexual assault awareness, and ending gender-based violence. Trina is honoured to be the Manager, Culture and Wellbeing at Kwantlen Polytechnic University. Outside of work, Trina has recently finished a 7 year term as the Board Chair for Salal Sexual Violence Support Centre. Most importantly, Trina is a very proud Entie to their 10 niblings. Trina absolutely loves orcas, dragons, Star Wars, LEGO, Titanic facts, dancing, and escape rooms. Trina tries to create safe(r) spaces everywhere they go and is a passionate advocate.

I am a female family lawyer practicing exclusively in family law at CBM Lawyers LLP. I am 31 years old and I was raised in Port Moody before moving to Langley. I graduated from the University of Victoria with my Bachelor of Arts degree and then moved on to law school at Peter A. Allard School of Law at UBC for my Juris Doctor. I knew from a young age I wanted to be a lawyer because I enjoyed standing up for people, and leading up to my career I dedicated my time to community volunteer work. I currently sit on the Board of Directors for the Langley Community Services Society; a non profit that provides much needed social supports to those who need it in Langley. It has been a long journey for me to get here but I wouldn’t change it for anything.

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I was born on the West Coast in Maple Ridge, and was raised by loving and hard working parents that instilled confidence and entrepreneurship in me. I started working while in high school at my father’s drug store – thus began my retail sales and customer service training which has formed a solid foundation for me in my career. Working with the public has always been enjoyable for me. I have lived in White Rock /South Surrey since 1990. While raising our two children, my husband Brad and I owned/operated three locations of popular retail clothing stores- Rad Brad’s Surf n’Turf Wear and ShaSha’s Girlstuff. My extensive history of Customer Service, community involvement and business background has given me a strong foundation in building real estate success. Since 2008, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed being a Realtor- especially working with and getting to know my clients. I’m so appreciative of the trust they place in me, and am thankful for their ongoing referrals. My expertise is helping clients through Challenging Transitions, Estate Sales and Downsizing, Sensitive Family Situations and with First Time Homebuyers. Most importantly, I want my clients to have an enjoyable and worry-free experience when Selling or Buying their home.

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Dr. Balbir Gurm is a caring, dedicated, award-winning nursing leader, professor of nursing at Kwantlen Polytechnic University, researcher, and consultant. She has 30+ years of experience in education, health challenges and health promotion, leadership, social justice, cultural safety, older adults, and social auditing. Balbir Influences policy through leadership on boards, organizations, advisory panels, and committees to improve communities. Dr. Gurm advocates for equity, access, and funding for oppressed groups. As founding member and facilitator for the Network to Eliminate Violence (NEVR) she continues to work with a multi-sectoral and multi-disciplinary team (education, justice, health, service providers) to create resources and facilitate workshops to create a violence free society. She advocates for system change to governments and works with media to bring academic knowledge to the community. Along with cross-sectoral multidisciplinary colleagues, she led a project to bring together critical understandings of relationship violence. This free living ebook Making Sense of a Global Pandemic: Relationship Violence & Working Together Towards a Violence Free Society. is available at. https://kpu.pressbooks.pub/nevr/ Dr. Gurm is known for excellence in education and leadership and as someone who uses her privilege to improve society.

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Shanna Knights, PEng, MASc, FCAE, is a chemical engineer with 35 years of research engineering, project management, and leadership experience in the Environmental and Clean Energy industries. For much of her career she worked on the development of hydrogen fuel cells at Ballard Power Systems, Inc. Fuel cells are electrochemical devices, similar to batteries, but they deliver zero emission electrical energy with no compromises. They offer fast refueling, no weight penalty, and high range compared with battery only electric vehicles. Shanna is driven to work on zero emission solutions to powering our world and doing her part to fight climate change.

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My name is Alex Anderson, I am the Youth Program Manager for the Adoptive Families Association of BC (AFABC) and the AgedOut.com website. AgedOut.com is a robust web resource that supports youth in and from government care, as well as all youth in the province who are transitioning to adulthood. I have worked in the non-profit sector for over 20 years in a number of capacities and communities, and I am very excited to bring my experience and passion for youth program development to AFABC. I am inspired by the many youth who advise us in our work and the stories they share of their lived experience in care, as well as the resilience and confidence they display through sharing their stories. I hope to continue centering and amplifying youth voice while advocating for the needs of youth in BC.

My name is Michelle Anderson and I am a single-mom of two amazing teenagers. I have a diploma from KPU in Community Support Work and managed a Community Care Facility for adults with developmental disabilities from 1998 to 2006. For the past 17 years I worked as an Education Assistant at the Surrey School District. In 2019 I decided to finally take the plunge to fulfill my dream to become a teacher. I have almost completed my degree at Thompson Rivers University and am currently finishing up my teaching program (PLP) at Simon Fraser University. I will become a licensed elementary teacher in April 2024. I have a huge passion for Inclusive education and Indigenous pedagogy. I love to support children to grow and learn in academics, to gain new knowledge and passions and learn about themselves and those around them. It is important to me to foster a school culture of respect and belonging. Inclusive education provides opportunities to learn about and accept individual differences, lessening the impact of harassment and bullying and builds tolerance of human differences. I strongly believe in life long learning and I hope to inspire others to follow their dreams and know that it’s never too late to concur their goals.

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Jas Salh is a senior wealth advisor at IA Private Wealth/Saje Wealth Management with over 25 years of experience in the securities industry. Jas’s knowledge of the markets and dedication to providing excellent customer service aid her in understanding and helping clients achieve their wealth needs. Jas is also actively involved in the White Rock South Surrey community. Currently she serves as the President of Soroptimist International White Rock – a group of women volunteering to raise awareness and funds for disenfranchised women. As well Jas is an active member with the Collaborative Law Association.

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Lily, a young entrepreneur at the age of 10, is the imaginative force behind Lily Lou’s Aromas. Her passion for crafting delightful scents ignited a journey that transformed nightly rituals into an innovative candle-making venture. With a penchant for self-care and mental health awareness, Lily’s brand champions joy and serenity through aromatic experiences. Her business thrives on the values of family, honesty, and perseverance, driven by the dream of making a positive impact.

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Dr. Mandeep Kaur Mucina is an Associate Professor and the Director of the School of Child and Youth Care at the University of Victoria. Mandeep did her undergraduate degree in child and youth care and has an MA in Social work from the University of Toronto and a PhD in Adult Education and Community Development from OISE, University of Toronto. Over 20 years, Mandeep has worked with children, youth, and families in various human service contexts and has been teaching post-secondary education for over 15 years across Canada. Mandeep’s current research and social justice work focuses on family violence, gender-based violence, critical migration studies, and exploring second-generation South Asian women’s resistance, identity, and encounters with racism in the diaspora.

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Alex was born and raised in the Lower Mainland, where she completed her Bachelor of Arts degree at the University of the Fraser Valley. She then completed her law degree at the University of Toronto in 2015. During law school, Alex volunteered with Pro Bono Students Canada’s Family Court Support Program, through the Barbra Schlifer Commemorative Clinic. She also spent a semester as a student caseworker in the University of Toronto’s family law clinic. Alex then completed her articles in the family law division of a busy Bay Street firm, and spent another year there as an associate before returning to the Lower Mainland. Outside of the office, Alex enjoys hiking, bowling, and curling up with a good book.

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Computer Science Engineer with 10+ years of experience web & windows applications using development frameworks such as ASP.NET , Database Server. Comprehensive understanding of managing technical projects, people and resources effectively owing to Leadership roles served and Post Baccalaureate Diploma in Technical Management & Services completed in Jan’23. I always look forward to new leadership roles to help bridge the gap between IT and business objectives which has inspired me to volunteer for supporting Soroptimist event as well.

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I am a Research Scientist at Ballard with a background in inorganic and electrochemistry. Witnessing the environmental challenges stemming from fossil fuel dependency and its impact on the planet deeply drive my dedication. At Ballard, our interdisciplinary research merges science and engineering to continuously enhance efficiency, durability and affordability of fuel cells. This collaboration keeps me engaged in this field. Seeing how our long-term research could transform energy systems, from transportation to stationary power, is truly inspiring. It is promising to see the results of your research in the actual products which enable us to envision a cleaner, more efficient energy landscape that reduces carbon footprints and pushes us towards a more sustainable future.

After a 12 year career in the beauty industry, I needed a change. As I was contemplating my next steps, I took a job at Safeway in the deli. As things do at Safeway, plans changed and an opportunity through the union presented itself. I went to the Retail Meat Cutting program through Thompson River University. Fully sponsored by my union. I finished the 9month apprenticeship program and moved into my new classification as a meat cutter. I work on our relief pod, covering multiple store over the lower mainland. Later moving into an assistant manager position in East Vancouver, and South Surrey. I later went back and completed my journeyman program. I view my job as a staple to the community. Providing the old school butcher experience, preserving an old world trade.

Paula works at KPU in the Information Technology Department, she enjoys working with people so the role of customer service manager as been a great fit. She has been practicing and studying yoga and breath work for over 20 years and finds that it has been a great support to deal with the stress and anxiety that arises in life.

I am a second generation Canadian (child of immigrants) born and raised in Vancouver. I have been a lawyer since 2003 and enjoy helping people better their lives both through my work as a prosecutor and through my volunteer work with non-profit organizations.

I spent my apprenticeship doing construction electrical for new commercial buildings. Recently, I got my Red Seal ticket and switched to controls and automation. Trying to inspire girls to have a career in trades!

In my journey, I’m fueled by a passion for technology, education, and empowerment. At Kwantlen Polytechnic University, I embrace a diverse range of roles. As a learning technology analyst, I actively contribute to the ongoing evolution of education through technology. Simultaneously, I thrive as a dedicated student and serve as a peer tutor, supporting fellow students in their educational journey. Within the campus realm, I’ve worn multiple hats—I’ve represented students in the senate, playing a pivotal role in policy revisions impacting our academic community. Additionally, I passionately volunteer as an academic integrity ambassador, educating fellow students through engaging tutorials. Beyond campus, I’m part of the BC Federation of Employees and had the privilege of attending the Top 50 Young Leaders Retreat in 2023. Moreover, I’ve had the opportunity to assist the Member of Parliament for Surrey-Newton. Each role shapes my commitment to education, technology, and societal betterment.

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I opened my women’s clothing boutique 26 years ago with a dream to educate women on Canadian designers and lines that embodied quality and integrity in the marketplace. I have championed Canadian designers for 26 years and I have thrown myself in that arena and have designed my own custom-fitted bra, the TAB bras, and an innovative and smart technology fabric line of base layers and comfortable compression for Men and Women. These are the projects that truly motivate me. I’ve been blessed to be surrounded by a like-minded team and supportive family, as my two oldest sons are owners in the business with me, and we’ve been able to achieve successes well beyond the monetary. We work toward making a difference in every area of life we can. And that has been the most gratifying.

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I work with UNITI, a local not-for-profit that supports people with intellectual disabilities to live good lives. UNITI supports the following areas: creates affordable and inclusive housing and provides the following services for people with disabilities, employment, guidance counselling, inclusive living, acquired brain injury, recreation, day programs, leadership and more! I have been with UNITI for over 12 years, starting as a support worker, then day programs, to employment, leadership and now I am with the foundation as the director of development. In this role, I help UNITI ensure that is has strong community relationships, enough resources to deliver excellent services, and recognition for the work that we do. A great way to learn more about us is to look at our social media, @uniti4all. I am looking for volunteers that can help me with social media. We also hire summer students.

Sofia Lopez is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s in Political Science at UBC, coupled with a Certificate in Marketing Management from BCIT. With over 4 years of experience in the nonproafit sector, she excels in coordinating and supporting organizations to deliver and achieve their strategies, particularly in the realm of marketing. As a proud member of the Junior Achievement of BC and JA Canada Alumni Council, Sofia actively contributes to both local and national initiatives and projects. She is also deeply involved in developing projects with JA Worldwide, the international sector of JA. Beyond her professional pursuits, Sofia is passionate about addressing climate change, dedicating her free time to delivering discussions in her community for the City of Richmond. Currently, Sofia is furthering her skills as a Marketing Intern at PenderFund Capital Management, where she plays a pivotal role in contributing to the success of marketing initiatives in the investment management firm.

I am a civilian member working in the RCMP Forensic Identification Services (FIS) as a Forensic Identification Examiner. When I was a kid I was obsessed with the TV show Bones and Crime Podcasts. Early on I knew I wanted to go into forensics and help solve crimes. During my Archaeology undergraduate degree I started a co-op placement with FIS and absolutely loved the work; once I graduated I was hired as a full time employee. I deal with a variety of scenes, from homicides to break and enters, searching for forensic evidence, such as fingerprints, DNA, and footwear impressions. Everyday is different, filled with new learning opportunities and challenges.

Hi, my name is Sakshi! I am a co-op at Teaching and Learning Commons. During the span of past 4 months I have learned a lot which helped me to grow not just professionally but also as a person. I would like to share and guide other girls learn about computers and it’s science so that they know how much they can grow in this field.

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With a dynamic presence in the finance services industry for over a decade, Jada stands as a testament to expertise and progressive leadership in this sector. In her current role, as Director of Insurance Services, she brings a wealth of knowledge and an innovative approach to how she leads the division. Her journey in finance is marked by a series of strategic advancements and impactful decision-making, highlighting her dedication to excellence in service and client experience. Beyond her primary role, Jada is deeply committed to fostering diversity and inclusion within the industry. As the co-chair of Nicola Wealth’s inclusion committee, she plays a key role spearheading initiatives that promote equitable opportunities and a supportive environment for employees. Her efforts underscore her belief in the power of diverse perspectives and inclusive practices in driving organizational success. As a woman of color in a leadership position, Jada is a role model and advocate for gender equity in the workplace. She actively mentors emerging leaders, especially women, encouraging them to pursue their ambitions and make their mark in the world. With her passion for inclusive excellence, she aims to continue using her leadership platform to shape the future for women in finance.

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Selena is a purpose driven leader who brings passion and expert experience to her role as Vice President, Advisory Services – Associates and Operations at Nicola Wealth, an independent financial planning firm, where she leads one of the largest teams in the firm. A graduate from The University of Calgary, Selena graduated with her Bachelor of Arts, Economics and holds her Certified Financial Planner (CFP), Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) and Certified Management Accountant (CMA) designations. Beyond her daily responsibilities, she also serves as a Steering Committee member and podcast host of Women’s LEAD at Nicola Wealth, and is co-chair for Nicola’s Inclusion Committee. As a fierce advocate for social justice, Selena is actively engaged in her community, volunteering with various organizations such as Junior Achievement, Union Gospel Mission, CPABC, Yell Canada, and the Vancouver Chinatown Foundation. Additionally, she mentors through the Women in Capital Markets Mentorship Program.

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Natalie Williams is a dedicated Student Recruitment Officer with CPABC, specializing in post-secondary and high School education for BC and Yukon. With a passion for fostering educational opportunities, she plays a vital role in crafting, implementing, and executing strategic recruitment plans. Natalie thrives in connecting with students of all ages, beliefs, and backgrounds, ensuring they have access to tailored educational pathways. Her commitment to bridging gaps and fostering inclusivity in the educational landscape reflects in her dynamic approach. Natalie’s expertise lies in navigating the unique challenges of student recruitment in diverse regions, contributing significantly to the growth and diversity of the CPA community.

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Lucia is a grade 12 high school student who is taking the Millwright Foundations Course at Kwantlen Polytechnic University through the Youth Train in Trades Program. She’s looking forward to graduating and working in trades as well in the near future. She says it has been such an amazing opportunity and would recommend it to anybody who thinks they would be interested.

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Raveena Oberoi is the CEO/Owner of Just Cakes Bakeshop, BizPod Vancouver, and The Jar Bar. Over the past 13 years, Raveena has found herself in a variety of roles not only within business and entrepreneurship, but within the community. The “why” for Raveena has always been surrounded in storytelling as a means to inspire, especially young South Asian women in following their dreams. Raveena has been the recipient of not only food-based awards, but also distinctual awards such as Surrey Board of Trade’s Top 25 under 25, Young Entrepreneur of the year, BC Business’s Top 30 under 30, along with being a finalist for other awards like Surrey Board of Trade’s Women in Business, and BC’s Women of Distinction awards. Through her business, Raveena believes that the community she has built with Just Cakes within Surrey & the Lower Mainland is a part of her purpose & the vessel through which she can share the importance of chasing one’s dreams.

Fun fact: Raveena now serves as a Judge on Food Network Canada’s show, “Wall of Bakers!”

I’m a Technology Analyst with a background in Computer Science. I graduated in 2020 before joining a company as a Software Developer. After 2 years of technical work, I recognized the joy I had in solving problems while collaborating across teams. I am driven by building impactful solutions while working with people, data, and business requirements. Now, I work at Kwantlen to improve the learning systems for students and faculty. Outside of my career, I have many hobbies and love to stay active. I hike, scuba, cook, and recently learned to crochet!

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We are a committee made up of local service agencies in Delta and Surrey. Our goal is to increase public awareness surrounding violence and abuse in all relationships through education; and we work to reduce gaps in services in our communities.

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Hello, my name is Emilie, and I am a Human Resources Workforce Coordinator. I worked in construction years ago as an Electrician. I now work as a Human Resources point of contact for a local construction company serving all our trades and supervision staff out in the field on projects. I am excited to come to your event to share my own personal experiences in the trades, promote our company by sharing available opportunities, and share some how-to’s on getting a career started in trades. I am passionate about helping people and I hope to inspire young women to join a career in trades!

I work as a Behaviour Consultant and Triple P practitioner with families who have child with developmental disabilities . I consult families to formulate behaviour intervention program to teach a child new skills, manage their disruptive behaviour and implement routines. I also teach self help , life skills, social and play skills. I also help families designing their child’s financial future by educating them by setting up financial plans. I assist families in deciding their child’s education related matters. Basically after graduating high school.

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I’m Katie, I graduated KPU in December and have been asked to attend by KPU to share my new found career as a welder! I am a structural field welder and i am currently doing steel work on a high school in Vancouver!

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Andhra Goundrey is the dean in Kwantlen Polytechnic University’s (KPU) Wilson School of Design (WSD) and has a background in the apparel industry, business, and leadership. Andhra has been with KPU for 22 years, having previously served as faculty member, program chair, and associate dean. She is a graduate of KPU’s Fashion and Technology Program and also holds a Bachelor of Arts, Leadership and Master of Arts, Leadership from Trinity Western University. She looks forward to a future vision of innovation, collaboration and values-driven leadership that will continue to build the brand and reputation of the Wilson School of Design and KPU.

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I am a certified Professional Accountant and I am doing accounting for over 15 years. I really like when I help business to keep there financial data organized to make crucial decisions. Accountants are back bone of the business.

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From Saskatchewan, bought a home last summer in Chilliwack, mom of 2 boys, Human Resources for First Nations Health Authority, proud Metis, Survivor of generational trauma which inspires me to help people for a living, to do good things, with a good heart and a good mind. I am also an Indigenous Coach through the International Coaching Federation-Level 1. My goal in life is to raise good boys and help people in our communities and schools.

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Daya K Chacko is an analytical Research Specialist with a strong background in material chemistry and nanotechnology, supported by research and professional work experience in electrochemical devices mainly in fuel cells, solar cells, and Li-ion batteries. Currently, she serves as a Research Scientist in Ballard power systems and her main research area is catalyst-coated membrane layers for fuel cell application. I’m always chasing for opportunities to contribute to the renewable energy field and strongly believe, we all are committed to giving green energy solutions for our future generations. At Ballard, we use our fuel cell expertise to deliver innovative clean energy solutions to our customers globally and that makes me extremely proud to work at Ballard.

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Sharon is a new graduate from Simon Fraser University with a major in Health Science and a minor in Gerontology. She is currently working at BC Children’s Hospital, where she has the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of young children. Sharon is passionate about helping others, mental health, self-love and women empowerment. She aims to support girls in her community to understand the importance of mental health and help radiate confidence within themselves. Sharon aspires to become a doctor and help those in need of adequate care.

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I am a Research Technician at the Applied Genomics Centre at Kwantlen Polytechnic University. I have always had a passion for science and research, and I love being able to represent women in STEM! My future goal is to obtain a Ph.D. in the field of molecular biology, and to one day teach at a post-secondary institution!

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Abhinaya is a Molecular Geneticist at the Applied Genomics Centre in Kwantlen Polytechnic University. Having always been interested in pursuing a career in science, she immigrated to Canada for graduate school after obtaining a bachelor’s degree in bioinformatics. Abhinaya recently graduated with a PhD in Veterinary Medical Sciences with a focus on Genomics and Molecular Biology. She has always been a firm believer in the potential of science to make the world a better place and the power of women to revolutionize scientific research. She has been a part of several community outreach events focused on STEM research.

Kristine is a compositor who works in TV and Film, with a BA in Film and a Diploma in 3D Animation & VFX. She joined KPU as faculty and then program coordinator for VFX in 2023 and continues to work in the industry and bring her experience to the classroom, most currently with Warner Bros TV.

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I began my career as a freelancer in Italy, specializing in 3D generalist. I primarily worked in the advertising industry in Milan. However, I wanted to push myself further and transition into the animation and movie industry. I applied to numerous companies, and the first one to respond was Bardel Entertainment. This led to me relocating from Italy to Canada 7 years ago, where I started working as a lighting and compositing artist. After spending a year at Bardel, I decided to challenge myself once again and switch roles. I applied for a surfacing position at Mainframe Studios. I joined as a junior artist and eventually ended up leaving as an asset supervisor. Seeking yet another challenge, I then joined Sony Imageworks, where I am currently employed. However, I also felt the urge to share my knowledge, so I took on a role as an instructor at KPU.

My name is Jenelle and I recently graduated from KPU ENTA’s program 3D Animation and Modeling. I’m a 3D Modeler/texture artist and Ghibli enthusiast who wants to build beautiful environments that evokes a sense of adventure. What I enjoy about modeling is adding personality to enhance the narrative making the model feel harmonious with the fictional world. I love architecture and learning about its history so finding references and building it makes me feel like I’m able to explore places I’ve never been to. I hope to make a positive impact and help bring new stories into the world.

Kaylin is the program assistant of the Farrier Science program at Kwantlen Polytechnic University in Cloverdale. An alumnus of the same program, Kaylin has competed multiple times in farrier competitions and has apprenticed under a certified journeyman farrier in the Langley area. They also have their own farrier business focused in Merritt, BC with some clients in the lower mainland. They are passionate about horses and equine care as well as blacksmithing. Kaylin looks forward to seeing more young people with new ideas come into such an ancient and important trade and seeing it prosper in the future.

My love of horses started with a game of soccer. 

When I was little, my nana owned racehorses. They were boarded at a farm in Aldergrove, and I loved going out to visit them. I was a toddler at the time, but they would let me wander the property with the farm dog, Colby. A Border Collie, Colby would never let me go into any of the paddocks in my own, so I was left to my own devices most of the time. 

That’s how I bonded with the new foal, Orf. Ross Ridge Admiral lost his dam when he was born, and was nicknamed Orphan because of it. He was as wobbly as I was getting around his paddock, and I loved him at first sight. I knew I wasn’t allowed to go in with him, but there just so happened to have a Jolly Ball outside of the fence line. When I kicked it in, lo and behold, he waltzed right over and kicked it back to me. 

I spent most of my childhood working at various barns in exchange for lessons, when they had the time. But I think the hard work only solidified for me, that this was going to be part of my life even when the road got bumpy. 

Even after working in the film industry for 5 years and loosing touch with many of my equestrian connections, when I decided to change career paths, I decided that it was worth giving farriery a try.

It has been a very rewarding decision so far, and I look forward to continuing to learn and grow within this trade.

I have been a registered nurse for 23 years, with most of my career in public health. My current role is the patient care coordinator at the Surrey Youth Clinic with Fraser Health.  I have also recently taught clinical practicum placements for UBC nursing students.  My passion has always been working with youth and young adults in promoting their health and wellness in a variety of ways.

Hi, my name is Caitlin and I work with the Delta Police as a Community Safety Officer. I am also a youth soccer coach for South Delta, this inspires me to be a role model for the players that I coach. Being a CSO allows me to have the freedom of working on my own and in a team environment. I enjoy interacting with the community and working alongside Delta Police members. The first-hand experience and knowledge that I have received while in this position has been invaluable.

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Women have been involved in Canada’s military service and contributed to Canada’s rich military history and heritage for more than 100 years. They have been fully integrated in all occupations and roles for over 20 years, with the exception of serving on submarines which was eventually lifted by the Royal Canadian Navy on March 8, 2001. The history of Canadian service women is an important part of our national military heritage and their achievements contribute to the full and equal inclusion of women in our society and national institutions. It’s an exciting time for women, for now there is truly no limit to career opportunities for them in the CAF.

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Foundry Surrey, which is a program hosted by Pacific Community Resources Society (PCRS), is an upcoming health and wellness centre for young people, ages 12-24, and their families in the community of Surrey. This centre, once opened, will provide free mental health, substance use, physical health, sexual health, social, and peer support services. The centre will be located on 10280 City Parkway, across from the Surrey Central Skytrain station.

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Let Her Talk is a peer support network that provides safe space and peer support for racialized women and girls. We host workshops and social events that take on an intersectional feminist lens and include some form of art therapy. As a group of racialized women we’ve first hand seen the lack of safe space and discussions of intersectional feminism in our community and wanted to create a space where our voices and others like us could be heard.

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The SAS Self Advocates are a team of local people with disabilities who create change through positive relationships. We partner with organizations and businesses to make our community more inclusive, and advocate at the municipal, provincial and federal level for accessibility. SAS donated the beach wheelchair at Crescent Beach and donated 2,000$ to Ocean Cliff Elementary to build an Accessible Playground. We host an annual Clothing Sale, Holiday Craft Fair and All Candidates Mixer to support our community. In 2023 we hosted the Surrey Access Walk, and look forward to taking on future community projects.

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We are a non-profit organization with over 300,000 hours contributed to the City of Surrey since 2012. Our 500+ volunteers tour around the city reporting incidents to the appropriate agencies, removing graffiti, and attending special events among other tasks.

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Y Mind is a free psychoeducational group program for Teens aged 13 – 18 or Youth aged 18 – 30 who are experiencing stress, worries or mild – moderate anxiety. Y Mind teaches youth evidence based coping skills using Mindfulness, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy and Self-Compassion. Participants connect with peers who are experiencing similar thoughts and feelings in a safe, supported environment.

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The purpose of the BeaYOUtiful Foundation is to advance the health and education of female and non-binary identifying children and youth, by funding, facilitating and carrying out educational programs and workshops aimed at promoting healthy body image, mental health, self-esteem, and building resilience, critical thinking skills and leadership skills. The organization looks to instil the value of self-worth and support the next generation in their confidence journey by facilitating supportive mentorship relationships.

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Low Entropy Foundation is a registered charity founded in 2015. We are a social impact organization that provides opportunities for community members to improve their mental health and enhance their quality of life. We believe that changing the world starts with changing ourselves. Our programs and initiatives meet people where they are at by providing them with resources to become self-sufficient and to create a brighter future for themselves and their communities. We currently run programs related to food security, employment services, outreach, and expressive arts for youth. In June 2023 we opened our first thrift store called “Thrift & Fund” located in Coquitlam. We have lots of volunteer opportunities!

Mustang Justice is a school wide open door Justice centered youth organization that practices intersectional empowerment for all by collaborating with school and community alike to build tranformative movements that go beyond charity and take action for all kinds of justice.

Many of us come from marginslized communities but we believe in the following ” They tried to bury us, not realizing we were seeds”

We understand that all oppression is connected and that work of justice is the work of everyone, and so every student is a member of Mustang Justice.