Youth Action Council

Kate is a Youth Action Council Co-Chair who values taking her Minerva knowledge and putting it to action in her university life and community. Kate is constantly looking for ways to volunteer her time and creativity to empower others to grow into their best selves. She is inspired when she is surrounded by people who deeply care about women’s confidence, and she believes that life is about being in 100%, and not being afraid to fail while still offering herself grace. Kate is passionate about studying biology and training in the gym. 

Manvir is Co-Chair of the 2026 Youth Action Council at Minerva BC, where she is passionate about empowering young women to lead with confidence and authenticity. She began her journey in 2017 through the Learning to Lead program and has since held various roles. Manvir leads by modelling honesty, creating spaces where youth feel safe to share their voices and grow. She is dedicated to helping young women explore their unique paths and redefine success. Guided by Sikh values of sewa and community, Manvir is committed to uplifting others and inspiring meaningful leadership. Outside of her work, she enjoys blending creativity with hands-on interests, from sewing to anything with engines, from zero to eighteen wheels. 

Abby is an incoming student at the University Of Toronto’s Rotman Commerce and Youth Action Council member at Minerva BC.  Passionate about leadership, creativity, and building belonging in her community, she serves as Vice President of her school’s Kare Bear Club and has gained marketing experience through her work with Kokomolo as well as an internship at a local café. In her free time, she enjoys bringing her curiosity and positive energy in activities like café hopping and travelling.

Clarisse is a student in grade 12 who will be attending UBC in fall 2026. She thrives in both science and arts, and is passionate about saving the environment, working with youth, and using technology to alleviate social issues. In the community, Clarisse currently leads a Youth Outreach Group that delivers eco-awareness workshops to over 500 students annually. She is also a volunteer shift leader at her local hospital and adores collecting side projects. It should come as no surprise she is an aspiring hobby girl– cooking, crocheting, coding, and creating are always recurring on her daily to-do list!

Hallie is a Grade 12 student with a passion in business management hoping to empower young individuals. Inspired by the belief that true growth comes from guidance and encouragement rather than answers, she has supported Career Boost 2025 and Minerva’s 25th Anniversary through assisting with workshops and mentor-youth connections that fostered inclusivity. Hallie is a film enthusiast, loves being in nature, and baking! She hopes to stay curious and open-minded as she continues exploring her future aspirations.

Dilpreet is a passionate and driven volunteer at Minerva BC who has been actively involved since 2022. Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences at Simon Fraser University, she is committed to a future in medicine and creating meaningful impact in the lives of others. At Minerva, she has led workshops on assertive communication and confidence, reflecting her dedication to growth and empowering those around her. With a strong passion for mentoring, she strives to uplift and inspire her peers while leading with compassion and authenticity. She believes that true leadership is measured by the lives we uplift, the confidence we ignite, and the lasting impact we leave on others.

Savannah is a secondary student currently in grade 11. Savannah is very passionate about getting involved in her community, especially kids with different needs, through volunteering, mentoring, tutoring and any other way possible. In her spare time, she enjoys sports and science. She has been with Minerva since 2024. 

Manseen is a Registered Nurse working in the community with the early years population, supporting families through the critical stages of infancy and early childhood. She is passionate about health equity and focuses on primary prevention through education, early intervention, and supportive care. She is a strong advocate for the birthing population and women’s reproductive health. Since age 16, she has been involved with Minerva BC, developing leadership, mentorship, and advocacy skills that shape her practice and community engagement. Outside work, she enjoys travelling and values personal growth, meaningful connections, and lifelong learning.

Samarra is a Youth action council Member at Minerva BC who is a driven and curious student with a passion for growth, leadership, and trying new challenges. She is a secondary school student who consistently looks for opportunities to step outside her comfort zone, whether through public speaking, volunteering, or competitive sports like basketball and track. She values self reflection and isn’t afraid to look back and learn from difficult situations. Outside of academics, she enjoys creative expression and staying active, while also prioritizing mental health and school balance as she strives to grow into her best self.

Lucia is currently in her first year at Western University in London Ontario where she is studying Business Management. Lucia has been on the Youth Action Council since 2024, where she has taken on roles in various sub-committees and initiatives. She has facilitated confidence building workshops for Learning to Lead cohorts, written in the Minerva Newsletter, and attended various in-person events. When she has the time, Lucia loves spending time with her family, being around any kind of animal, and watching a good movie.

Farwah is part of the Communication team in the Youth Action Council at Minerva BC with a passion for encouraging young people to be the best versions of themselves. She is finishing secondary school and plans to study health sciences, inspired by experiences with illness and recovery. She has supported growth in a women-led non-profit and strives to encourage leadership and confidence. Farwah is committed to creating inclusive spaces and uplifting others through mentorship and service. She enjoys travelling and creative pursuits, and advocates for wellbeing, sustainability, and strong community connections.

Avani is a dedicated high school student and high-level athlete with a strong work ethic and a passion for leadership. She finds fulfillment in taking initiative; whether it’s mentoring youth in STEM or volunteering at her school, she enjoys being involved in her community. She is an incredibly empathetic leader who is dedicated to creating a positive, long-lasting impact on those around her, and she believes a balanced mindset is the key to success. In her free time, Avani enjoys staying active, playing video games, and practicing photography. She aims to inspire her fellow young leaders and contribute to an uplifting community.

Anushka is a member of the YAC who is motivated by helping the people around her. She attends secondary school and is in the tenth grade. She hopes to pursue a career in humanities and gain new experiences exploring different parts of the world. She enjoys playing different instruments and sports and loves the outdoors.

Erika is a Grade 12 student with a strong commitment to leadership and community involvement. After completing the Learning to Lead program in 2025, she now serves on the Youth Action Council helping plan initiatives and support projects that make a meaningful impact. She is also a dedicated Air Cadet, gaining leadership skills and receiving recognition for her contributions. Erika plans on pursuing a career in healthcare, particularly in areas related to dentistry and public health, with a focus on improving community well-being. In her free time, she enjoys creative projects, staying active, and trying new cafes.