Starts with Y

Following the outbreak of the pandemic, university students Jack, Alex and Nathan returned to their hometowns eager to find ways to support their local communities. They created The Basket Project in hopes of providing relief and protection from the virus to those experiencing homelessness. They do this by handing out baskets containing sanitary essentials such as gloves, sanitary wipes and masks whilst also asking the general public to continue to support their cause by donating, providing in kind donations and spreading the word about this remarkable cause.

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19-year-old Whytli is the co-founder of the non-profit organization “End the Stigma”. The organization promote the notion that mental health should be an ongoing conversation and they aim to provide helpful resources to those struggling with their mental health. From their #NoFilterStory campaign that allows youth to comfortably listen to and/or share their own mental health stories, to well-being tools as well as support groups with an in-house therapist. Whytli has also created her own podcast “In the Wake” as a means of advocating for those suffering with mental illness as well as moving the conversation of mental health and well-being forward. 

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From empowering disadvantaged youth in Nigeria, advocating against child marriage, promoting the idea of equality,  and much more. Wadi Ben-Hirki founded her non-profit organization at only 18-years-old. As a youth advocate and a role model, Wadi continues to inspire youth in Nigeria to set and accomplish their goals and become the best version of themselves. Her message has spread across the world as she has been honoured with several national and international awards. She continues to inspire youth worldwide to treat one another with compassion and kindness in order to create a just and peaceful world.

In light of what is happening in the world and the pandemic has had on access to education, best friends, Rachel, Alyssa, Jackie and Destiny created  “Better as One” to shed light on the importance of supporting vulnerable learners during this time. Alyssa and Rachel join us to speak to the way they have been using their time at home to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities by fundraising for Personal Protective Equipment and educational resources whilst educating their own communities on ways to support this incredibly important cause.

As soon as 11-year-old Rachel was introduced to the world of Genetically Modified Organisms, she knew she had to take action and inform youth about their rights to make environmentally sound choices. Today, 20 year old Rachel continues to fight for our right to know what’s in our food. She founded Kids Right to Know, a non-profit organization dedicated to support youth claim their right to know what is in their food.  She launched her "Just Label It!" campaign in hopes of advocating for the labeling of GMO foods, as without labels, we don’t have the freedom of choice to decide what we eat.

17-year-old Ivan is passionate about amplifying the voice of young people. He continues to do so by bringing light to causes such as: gun violence, youth experiencing homelessness, environmental issues and much more.  Ivan is a member of the Oakland Youth Advisory Committee and played a key role in the March for Our Lives Oakland rally. His remarkable story showcases the power of youth coming together, raising their voice and fighting for a better tomorrow.

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Following the 2017 Women’s March, 15 year old Alara knew she wanted to continue to raise her voice to support women's rights. Alongside her friends, Lara, Jordan and Laura, She Clothing Co was created to empower women to “wear feminism on their sleeve” and speak out against inequality by understanding their rights. 100% of their proceeds support charities that are dedicated to empowering young women across the globe.

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At only 7 years old, Savanna had a passion to educate and empower individuals and communities live happy and healthy lifestyles. After years of determination and hard work, 14 year old Savanna is not only an accomplished author and speaker but she is also the CEO of Happy Heart Advices, an organization focused on educating youth on the functions of the heart while getting them involved in fun, heart-pumping activities.

At 11 years old, Stella began asking her family why they were unable to swim the LaHave River. She learnt about the high levels of fecal bacteria in the river and decided she needed to take action. Now at 16 years old, Stella’s journey has led her to not only being recognized and honoured through several awards and nation-wide media coverage, but she also received 15.7-million-dollars to support homeowners get new septic tanks.

Imagine being forced to leave your home. Imagine being forced to leave some of your favourite books and toys behind and saying goodbye to friends and family in short notice. Imagine taking one last look at the home you grew up in and wondering if you will ever see it again. This was the reality for Sedra and Shahd, who join us to speak their own experiences fleeing Syria to seek refuge and safety in Canada. Sedra and Shahd are passionate about supporting those still living in refugee camps in Syria. They started an initiative called "Elegant Art" in which 100% of the proceeds from their art sales are donated support families living in refugee camps in Syria. 

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