Photo: 2024 Community Award Emerging Leaders, Rishika Selvakumar, Connally McDougall (top row), Christopher Lee & Janna Wale (bottom row)
In today’s rapidly evolving world, leadership isn’t bound by age or tradition. Recognizing this, we introduced the emerging leader category to the 2024 Community Award program, shining a spotlight on the incredible contributions of young people across British Columbia. This new category celebrates their accomplishments and encourages others to drive positive change in their communities. BC Achievement caught up with this year’s emerging leaders who we were privileged to honour at Government House in early May.
Christopher Lee: A Catalyst for Youth Empowerment
At just fifteen, Christopher Lee has already made a significant impact. As the co-founder of Helping Hearts Youth Foundation, Christopher has turned his passion for service into a thriving youth-led nonprofit. With over one hundred volunteers, Helping Hearts has raised more than $30,000 for various causes under his leadership.
Christopher’s influence goes beyond fundraising; he mentors younger students and fosters a culture of inclusion and empowerment. His hands-on approach ensures every event is meticulously executed, from providing meals in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside to distributing back-to-school care packages. Christopher is proof that age is no barrier to making a difference.
Reflecting on his recognition, Christopher expressed gratitude for the Community Award program, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging youth contributions. “Youth are a demographic that aren’t usually recognized for their achievements,” he noted. “By recognizing community leaders and those who serve, we give a chance for people like me to see those who’ve led in the past, paving a way for future leaders.”
Connally McDougall: Challenging the Status Quo
Connally McDougall’s journey as the founder of Connally Goods showcases the power of creativity, sustainability, and social justice. Her clothing brand is more than a business; it’s a platform challenging systemic oppressions like fatphobia, sexism, and ableism. Connally’s designs are bold statements of inclusion, crafted with ethically sourced materials and produced locally in Vancouver.
As a designer with disabilities, Connally amplifies underrepresented voices and advocates for body liberation. Her commitment to social causes, such as the Pace Society Vancouver and The Addison Fund for Pediatric Organ Transplant, highlights her dedication to making a difference.
Connally’s surprise at receiving the Community Award speaks to her humility and dedication. She reflected on the significance of recognizing community service, stating, “It sparks dialogue across a spectrum of demographics and allows us the opportunity to learn about community service initiatives in fields that we otherwise may not research or discover.” For Connally, this recognition validates her efforts to build a more inclusive world.
Rishika Selvakumar: A Champion for Mental Health and Sustainability
Rishika Selvakumar’s commitment to mental health and sustainability is evident in her contributions to organizations like the Acne Education Project UBC and Mentoring the Stars Foundation. Her volunteer work spans a range of initiatives, from educational panels to donation drives, all aimed at creating a positive impact.
Having recently completed her Master of Public Health at UBC, Rishika continues to pursue areas of interest to create change in the local and global community including research and projects in mental health, climate health, sexual health, and equity.
Reflecting on the importance of recognizing community service, Rishika noted, “Across our changing landscapes, it is imperative that we create supportive environments that recognize individuals and excellence in community service. This lends to continued inspiration and awareness of critical work being done in communities.”
Janna Wale: Bridging Indigenous and Western Knowledge
Janna Wale, a Gitxsan/Cree-Métis policy advisor and climate researcher, is making waves in the fight against climate change. Her work at the Canadian Climate Institute integrates Indigenous and Western ways of knowing, focusing on building resilience in Indigenous communities. Janna’s contributions have reached the global stage, where she has represented Indigenous youth at the UN Climate Change Conference.
As an emerging leader, Janna’s recognition through the Community Award program has bolstered her confidence and credibility in her field. She sees this recognition as a way to inspire others and strengthen community resilience. “By recognizing and acknowledging people’s work, it creates the opportunity for connection and knowledge sharing which will further help build resilience within our communities.”
The Importance of Recognizing Emerging Leaders
The stories of Christopher, Connally, Rishika, and Janna highlight the significance of the emerging leader category and the impact of sharing their journeys. These young individuals are true leaders, as they shape the present, drive change, and inspire others to join them. By acknowledging their contributions, we are celebrating excellence and encouraging a new generation of leaders to step forward and make their mark.
In a world where challenges are increasingly complex, the fresh perspectives, energy, and innovation brought by young leaders are invaluable. The emerging leader category is a powerful statement and recognition that leadership knows no age, and that the contributions of young people are essential to building stronger, more inclusive communities across the province.
BC Achievement is grateful to KPU Foundation for their commitment as a Supporting Sponsor of the 2024 Community Award program. KPU Foundation’s engagement supports our mission of honouring excellence to inspire achievement by recognizing the remarkable individuals who contribute to the vitality and resilience of communities across British Columbia.
Congratulations again to the 2024 recipients. We cannot wait to see what they do next. Stay tuned!
Do you know someone in your community who is doing exceptional work? Honour their contributions by nominating them for a BC Achievement award. Whether it’s an emerging leader, innovative entrepreneur, a dedicated community leader, or a visionary artist, their incredible work deserves recognition.
#nominatenowbc.
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