When Parker first noticed the environmental damage along a stretch of the North Thompson River, she didn’t wait for someone else to act. What began as a high school capstone project turned into a youth-led initiative to restore the riverbank using native plants — and to rally community support for long-term ecological solutions. In this interview, Parker shares their journey as a 2023 YCAA winner, the impact of Restoring Our River Banks, and how young people can take bold action for the planet — even when the path ahead is uncertain.

When Sophia saw how transportation barriers were limiting youth access to school, work, and community, she decided to act. What started as a local campaign for free youth bus passes in Regina grew into a multi-year movement that engaged thousands — and sparked policy change. In this interview, Sophia shares her story, the creation of Better Bus Youth, and her vision for making youth transit access a national priority. Her journey is a powerful example of how young leaders are building better futures, one step — and one bus ride — at a time.

Ulwiana Mehta-Malhotra keeps clothing out of landfills and helps students stay hopeful. This 18-year-old from North Vancouver inspires highschool students to trade fast fashion for thrift shops and clothes swaps, and provides a newsletter that spreads good news about climate solutions.

Liam Sisson wants to teach you about bees. This 19-year-old University of British Columbia science student from Kelowna, B.C., spends his summers keeping bees and hosting guided beekeeping tours for visitors.