LOVE BC continues to grow and expand because of its youth-driven nature that allows the organization to identify specific issues, topics and skills that youth want to focus on. LOVE BC evolves as our youth environment and consciousness does.
LOVE was founded in 1993 by Sheila (Twinkle) Rudberg who was inspired to end the cycle of violence in the lives of youth. Following the death of her husband by a 14-year old boy, Twinkle came to see that the youth himself was a victim of violence.
What started as a small, grassroots, youth photojournalism project running out of the basement of Montreal’s Dawson College soon blossomed into a well-established program, warmly recognized for the meaningful impact it was having on young people, with programs offered in Quebec, Ontario, British Columbia and Nova Scotia.
Executive Director
Akim (He/Him) brings a decade of experience in the non-profit sector and human rights to lead LOVE BC to provide youth with opportunities to navigate challenges and build futures in which they can be proud of themselves.
Youth Outreach Coordinator
Ilayda (She/Her) holds a degree in Cognitive Systems (UBC) and is passionate about education, art, community, mental health, and Two-Eyed Seeing. She supports youth resilience, sings in a band, and enjoys the outdoors.
Youth Program Coordinator
Abita (She/Her) has a Master of Public Health from UBC and a B.S. in Biology from UCLA. She is passionate about youth program coordination and community empowerment.
Workshop Facilitator
Anja (She/Her) is a facilitator, artist, and public engagement specialist. She brings expertise in cross-cultural approaches and creative engagement design, working across Canada and the EU.
Youth Facilitator
Raman (He/Him) is pursuing a BA in Justice Studies at Royal Roads University. Passionate about youth empowerment, Raman has experience supporting newcomer students and is committed to creating safe, inclusive spaces where youth can thrive.
Youth Facilitator
Shireen (They/Them) is an artist and facilitator who brings experience in mentorship and youth engagement. They are passionate about exploring the ways art can bring healing to individuals and community. Shireen supports LOVE BC by co-facilitating weekly programs.
Youth Facilitator
Heran (She/Her) is a youth and young adults mentor who has supported young people of various backgrounds for years in issues regarding life, emotional and mental well-being, education and more. She is passionate about music, design, empowering marginalized individuals and coffee.
Youth Leader
Ezra (She/Her) is a new youth leader who is passionate about literacy for youth. She is committed to creating a positive environment through learning and self-expression.
Self Defense Instructor
Adrienne (She/Her) is a self defense instructor with over 15 years of experience across various disciplines. She has experience teaching youth ages 3 to 17 and is passionate about creating inclusive, empowering spaces where young people can grow through movement.
Chair
Caity is a lawyer and instructor at the University of the Fraser Valley. As Board Chair, she provides oversight on developing governance that reflects equity, inclusion, and accountability. Her love of community-building through art, music, and writing inspire her commitment to LOVE BC.
Treasurer
Kevin brings over eight years of experience in finance, specializing in financial reporting, IFRS compliance, process optimization, and team leadership. He currently serves as Finance Project Controller at Arcadis and ensures financial health for LOVE BC and accurate and compliant reporting.
Secretary
Alex is the CEO of a mineral exploration company and former corporate and securities lawyer with over 20 years of experience advising companies on governance and strategy. He is passionate about youth development.
Director
Aarushi is a Biomedical Engineer and MBA student with experience in student engagement, digital marketing, and strategy. As a Board member, she champions youth empowerment and DEI initiatives while serving as an ambassador to strengthen community presence and long-term sustainability.
Director
Alex joined LOVE BC in 2022, focusing on fundraising and strategic communications. He currently serves as Senior Communications Advisor at BC Ferries.
Director
Kaycee brings deep experience in the healthcare industry and with Vancouver Coastal Health, focusing on community wellbeing and inclusive program design. With a strong commitment to innovation and collaboration, she is dedicated to driving practical, impactful change.
Director
Lyla Hunter first engaged with LOVE BC as a teenager and continues to advocate for youth. Drawing from personal experiences and two decades with LOVE BC, Lyla speaks up for young people who have faced emotional or other forms of violence. She remains committed to keeping violence out of the lives of youth.
Director
Sana is a Registered Social Worker who brings years of experience supporting youth experiencing homelessness and substance use, as well as supporting life-skills programs for children and youth. She contributes social work values/ethics to her role as a board member.
Director
Zavi is a Project Manager at Community Action Initiative, leading strategic grant programs in the mental health and substance use sector. A queer and trans settler, he brings years of experience in youth programming and a commitment to equity and systems change.
