Presenting the RBC 21 Under 21
Award Recipients
Meet the Young Leaders Shaping Our Future
For over two decades, Youth Ottawa has celebrated youth empowerment, recognizing the incredible contributions of young people within our community. Debuting this year, the 21 Under 21 Awards Gala presented by RBC, continues this proud tradition, shining a spotlight on youth, ages 14-21, who have demonstrated remarkable initiative, enthusiasm, and leadership in their local or global communities.
We are excited to introduce this year’s recipients—21 inspiring young trailblazers from across the city who have gone above and beyond to make a positive impact. Whether through community involvement, educational pursuits, or entrepreneurship, these youth truly have the “WOW” factor and are making a powerful difference. Get to know our amazing award recipients below!
You’re invited to the celebration! Join us in recognizing our nominees at the Awards Gala on October 24th from 5:30-9:30pm at the Shaw Centre. Early Bird Tickets are available now until September 30th, so don’t miss the chance to be part of a special evening and celebrate with your community.
Alexander Moorcroft (He/Him)
Alexander is a University of Ottawa student who has participated in highly selective field research courses and excelled in sports, including training for a 100 km bike ride. His community service includes roles in projects like the Big Give, an annual church initiative to give to those in need, and the Listening Table, a community platform for students, reflecting his commitment to social justice, inclusivity, and community development.
Alexander’s innovative spirit is evident in his efforts to bring public murals to Kanata and his proposed scholarship initiative to encourage youth volunteerism. His leadership, adaptability, and creative problem-solving continue to drive positive change in Ottawa. Through his varied roles—from organizing local events to fostering youth engagement—Alexander exemplifies a steadfast commitment to making a meaningful impact.
Anya Watson (She/Her)
Anya Watson, a grade 12 student passionate about community service, aspires to combine her love for working with children and making a positive impact by pursuing a career in education or healthcare. Overcoming shyness with the help of supportive teachers, Anya developed a love for learning and excelled in school.
Actively involved in extracurriculars, Anya tutors students in STEM, volunteers at CHEO, and founded a youth-led nonprofit promoting eye care among youth. As Lieutenant Governor of the Ottawa Key Club Division, she organizes events and fosters volunteerism among students. In her free time, she enjoys knitting, running her apparel printing business, and exploring different cultures through the International Certificate Program, with hopes of teaching ESL in South Korea one day. Anya’s journey reflects her dedication to making a difference and supporting others.
Benazir Tom Erdimi (She/Her)
Benazir Tom Erdimi, a recent University of Ottawa graduate in Conflict Studies and Human Rights with a minor in Law, has dedicated herself to community service and supporting vulnerable populations. In 2020, she founded The People of Tomorrow (TPOT), a non-profit inspired by the Black Lives Matter movement that amplifies marginalized voices and provides resources to the BIPOC community.
Despite personal challenges, including advocating for her father’s release from wrongful incarceration in Egypt, Benazir’s resilience has deepened her dedication to social justice. Her leadership with the Ottawa Black Diaspora Coalition (OBDC) and organizing events like Black History Month celebrations highlight her commitment to fighting racism and promoting equity. Aspiring to become a lawyer, Benazir aims to provide legal support to those deprived of their basic human rights, continuing to inspire others toward a more just society.
Daniela Valenzuela Neto (She/Her)
Daniela Valenzuela Neto, a passionate advocate for social justice and youth empowerment, is profoundly influenced by her Peruvian and Brazilian heritage. Raised by parents who overcame significant adversities—her father escaping economic challenges in Brazil and her mother fleeing violence in Peru—Daniela learned the importance of family and community from an early age.
Currently a third-year Bachelor of Public Affairs and Policy Management student at Carleton University, Daniela tackles global issues like poverty and socio-economic disparities. Her advocacy includes raising awareness for youth homelessness with the 360 Experience, supporting climate finance legislation through an internship with Senator Rosa Galvez, and working as a student policy analyst at Indigenous Services Canada. As a Communications Advisor at Young Diplomats of Canada and co-chair of Carleton’s BPAPM case competition, she empowers youth and promotes inclusive policy-making to drive meaningful change.
Dayna Xiao (She/Her)
Dayna Xiao, a Grade 12 IB student, is passionate about community service and personal growth. In her free time, she crafts unique jewelry for her small business and volunteers with the Friendship Circle of Ottawa, mentoring children with special needs. Her personal experience of losing her older sister Venissa to cancer has deeply influenced her resilience, inspiring her to fundraise annually for the Ottawa Regional Cancer Foundation and volunteer for Relay for Life.
Dayna is also dedicated to mental health advocacy, and has received awards for her creative projects, including a proposal for environmental sustainability. As a 2024 Summer Company participant, she has expanded her jewelry business and developed valuable entrepreneurial skills. Dayna’s commitment to blending creativity with practical solutions reflects her belief in the transformative power of innovation.
Food for the Capital
Bryan Liu (He/Him) & Joshua Cheruvathur (He/him)
Food for the Capital (FFTC), co-founded in 2020 by Bryan Liu and Joshua Cheruvathur, started as the Kanata COVID Food Drive. The organization was created in response to the rising demand for food banks during the COVID-19 pandemic, with the mission to combat food insecurity in Ottawa, raise awareness, and empower youth to become community leaders.
Since its inception, FFTC has organized 12 major events with local food banks and supermarkets, leading to over 15,000 pounds of food and $10,000 in donations to Ottawa charities. Led by student volunteers, the organization has provided valuable hours to over 100 students and received recognition from local charities and former Mayor Jim Watson. FFTC continues to inspire and educate youth about food insecurity, ensuring its mission’s sustainability by introducing new leadership talent and fostering innovation to expand its community impact.
Dev Katyal (He/Him)
Dev Katyal, a recent high school graduate from Ottawa, is set to earn his pilot’s license this summer through the Royal Canadian Air Cadet program. An avid nature enthusiast, Dev’s passion for environmental conservation began at age 11, organizing park cleanups and rallying over 50 kids from the Ottawa region. His dedication has led to significant involvement with programs like OceanWise Youth to Sea, completing 400 service hours, and the Canadian Wildlife Federation’s WILD Outside Program. He is also involved with Earth Rangers, Sustainable Youth Canada, and the Ontario Nature Council.
Dev has led public awareness campaigns, kayaking events, and presented at the Ontario Science and Technology Museum. As a CanGap Fellow and Marine Plastic Ambassador, he has represented Canada at the Blue Paradox event in Chicago and partnered with Health Canada to launch PolyVision, an AI-powered app for tracking plastic consumption. Dev’s commitment to conservation drives his efforts to engage young Canadians in protecting the environment.
Dhisha Aravind (She/Her)
Dhisha Aravind is a dedicated grade 11 student passionate about STEM and art, whose early involvement in the Ottawa Robotics Competition sparked her interest in STEAM disciplines. By donating her competition prizes to local youth, she expanded her robotics team and inspired others. As a daughter of immigrant parents, Dhisha honed her organizational skills while balancing roles such as vice president of a podcast and exploring medicine. Her commitment to education and community service is evident through her work with the Youth Council of Kanata-Carleton and academic research.
A transformative trip to Coimbatore, India, inspired Dhisha to found the Nexify Initiative, a nonprofit raising funds for UNICEF through media competitions. Her leadership in this project and work with MedLife and UNICEF chapters highlights her dedication to addressing global inequities and empowering youth.
Hannah Omar (She/Her)
Hannah Omar, a 17-year-old aspiring biomedical mechanical engineering student starting at the University of Ottawa this fall, is a dedicated community volunteer. As a Black, Muslim woman with a Somali Djiboutian background, she supports organizations like Ahkhri, ADAB (Association Djiboutienne pour Autisme et Autres Besoins), and the Somali Hope Foundation. Her service includes roles at Maison de la Francophonie, the Ottawa Police Youth Advisory Committee, and the Youth in Policing Initiative. Her contributions have earned her awards such as the Ottawa Youth in Policing Award and an Art Award of Merit from Maurice-Lapointe
Hannah is passionate about bridging the diversity gap in STEM fields and advocating for inclusivity. Her experiences and dedication to promoting women’s success in education and the workplace drive her to create opportunities for future generations. By demonstrating that representation matters and barriers can be overcome with determination, she is committed to paving the way for others.
Jahnavi Thotla (She/Her)
Jahnavi is a highly motivated first-year university student known for her leadership, empathy, and creativity. An immigrant to Canada, she has demonstrated her understanding of adaptation challenges by welcoming others into initiatives like the Women in STEM club. Described as a “go-getter” by her teachers, Jahnavi actively seeks opportunities to strengthen her communication and research skills.
In the Health and Wellness Specialist High Skills Major program, she co-created “IndigenousConnect,” a website now adopted by the school board to support Indigenous students, and developed “Momease,” an app that provides personalized resources for new mothers in poverty, dedicating over 150 hours to the project. “Momease” won the Abraham Securities Special Prize for its innovative approach to addressing poverty. Jahnavi’s projects reflect her commitment to using her strengths in science, creativity, and leadership to solve real-world problems and prepare for a future in healthcare sciences.
Jennifer Liu (She/Her)
Jennifer Liu, a student at Earl of March Secondary School, is passionate about business, economics, and finance, aiming to build a career that benefits communities. Her roles in Junior Achievement, including Vice President of Sales and Finance, and her successful venture Ducks & Daisies, which was featured on CTV News, have honed her skills in entrepreneurship and financial management.
Jennifer’s commitment to community service is evident through her volunteer work with the OCSB IILE Chinese lessons, Stittsville Food Bank, and various local and international causes. Her support for political canvassing and assistance to international students through Ottawa International Projects and Exchanges highlights her dedication to understanding and addressing global and local issues. Alongside her academic and entrepreneurial pursuits, Jennifer is also an avid cinephile and music enthusiast with ten years of piano experience.
Jessica Ehoro (She/Her)
Jessica Ehoro, born in Luton, England, and raised in Canada, has embraced her family’s heritage and the opportunities provided by her parents’ sacrifices to drive social change. Her high school journey was marked by a fearless commitment to social justice and youth advocacy, evident in roles like student council representative and student senator.
Jessica played a pivotal role in founding her school’s Black Student Association, advocating for Black students and addressing systemic racism. Her impact extends to community projects, including fundraising for cancer research through Relay For Life, creating inclusive spaces for youth, and her work with the Ottawa Youth Film Festival. Driven by a belief in the power of community and the importance of amplifying marginalized voices, Jessica continues to work towards ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Julien Hodge (He/Him)
Julien Hodge is an 18-year-old Human Kinetics student at UOttawa, actively engaged in community initiatives and professional roles. He is the founder of Lindo Cards and serves as the president of the Club Optimiste des Jeunes Adultes (COJA). Julien also works part-time as an administrative assistant at the Human 2.0 physiotherapy clinic.
Passionate about community involvement, Julien participates in various local organizations such as the Ottawa Basketball Network, Future Paths Network, and JA Ottawa. He is dedicated to balancing contributions to existing projects and leading his own, aiming to make a positive impact. Driven by curiosity and a desire for personal growth, Julien is focused on integrating innovation with community service. His future plans include creating technology-based solutions to enhance local sports participation and continuing to drive positive change through his ongoing and upcoming projects.
Natasha Trehan (She/Her)
Natasha Trehan is a fourth-year Translational Molecular Medicine student at the University of Ottawa and the founder of the Take a Pain Check Foundation, a global nonprofit that empowers youth with rheumatic diseases. Under her leadership, the foundation has grown to over 50 volunteers and launched initiatives like a STEM scholarship program and the Backpack Program in partnership with Arthritis Society Canada. Natasha also volunteers as a counselor for Club Sunrise, supporting children with arthritis.
In addition to her advocacy work, Natasha is a trained patient researcher through the PaCER program at the University of Calgary and serves on advisory boards for Pain Canada, Choice Research Lab, and Arthritis Research Canada. Her research contributions at institutions like the University Health Network and SickKids have been presented at major conferences across North America. Her dedication to amplifying youth voices in research and advancing the field of rheumatology has made a lasting impact within her community.
Nihal Yapici (She/Her)
Nihal is a fourth-year Honors Bachelor of Health Sciences student at the University of Ottawa, specializing in Population and Public Health. Originally from Istanbul, Turkey, her experience as an ESL student in Canada sparked her passion for supporting newcomer youth. Nihal volunteers as a science and English tutor, serves on the executive board of her university’s science journal, and works as a research assistant at The Ottawa Hospital and The Ottawa Heart Institute, where she advocates for equitable healthcare access through her roles as a Turkish-English interpreter and contributor to Newcomer Health organizations.
Beyond academics, Nihal is an avid marathon runner, co-leader of a local run club, and a book club leader at her university. She also helped establish the Ottawa branch of Prospective Medical Professionals (PuMP), a charity promoting STEM opportunities for marginalized youth. Her work reflects her dedication to community service, healthcare equity, and scientific innovation.
Shanaz Sabir (She/Her)
Shanaz Sabir is a dedicated university student recognized for her leadership and community impact. As Co-Prime Minister of the Student Council, President of the Muslim Student Association, and Vice President of the Eco Club, she led initiatives in inclusivity, environmental stewardship, and cultural awareness, playing a key role in raising over $100,000 for cancer research, local food banks, and global causes.
Her role as a volunteer research assistant at the Neuroscience Memory Lab contributed to important research on chemotherapy’s effects on memory in Breast Cancer patients. Awarded the Ottawa Catholic Trustee Student Service Award and the 2024 Global Community Alliance Youth Achievement Award, Shanaz has also organized major school events like the Coyote Prowl and the Multicultural Showcase. Planning to study Commerce and Law at the University of Ottawa, she aims to support women and drive positive change in her community.
Rays Robleh (He/Him)
Rays Robleh embodies resilience and personal growth. Diagnosed with autism at three, he turned early challenges into opportunities, excelling academically through French immersion and Catholic schools. Graduating as an Ontario Scholar from St-Josephine High School in June 2024, he began a Bachelor of Arts Honours program at Carleton University this September, focusing on international issues and history.
Rays is deeply committed to community service, focusing on girls’ education, social justice, and inclusion. His creativity shines through in his leadership of a discussion club and his efforts to support others on the autism spectrum. Rays’ work, including game creation and workshops, aims to spark interest in international issues and technology among youth. Through innovative fundraising and mental health workshops, he raises awareness of social issues, inspiring others with his resilience and contributions to embrace creativity and drive meaningful change.
Serena George (She/Her)
Serena George is a dedicated advocate for compassionate patient care and community service. She has gained extensive healthcare experience, and supported health care in her community through roles with the Canadian Medical Protective Association, as a medical assistant in a family clinic, a Medical Scribe in the Emergency Department, and has volunteered at her local hospital for many years.
Her community involvement extends to improving chronic disability support with Every Canadian Counts, teaching English in India through OneProsper, promoting youth voices with UNICEF, and advancing sustainable fashion through upcycling projects. Serena also honors her cultural roots with the Malayali Association of Ottawa, participating in Bharatanatyam, Bollywood dance, and playing various instruments at cultural events. Her work reflects her commitment to patient-centered care, cultural engagement, and actioning positive change.
Sharanya Sivasathiyanathan (She/Her)
Sharanya Sivasathiyanathan is an impactful youth leader from Ottawa, dedicated to empowering women and advocating for mental health. Her work with The Girls Education Project and the EmpowHER! podcast reflects her commitment to women’s issues and media innovation. She also contributes to menstrual health advocacy through the Endometriosis Project at the Rideau Students’ Union, highlighting the needs of marginalized communities.
Sharnaya’s commitment to supporting women has inspired her to step out of her comfort zone and rise to the occasion of new challenges. Her resilience was tested during the “Female Firefighters in Training” Camp, where she overcame physical and mental challenges, strengthening her leadership skills. As Co-President of her school’s Student Council, she spearheaded successful community initiatives such as sock and food drives. Her role as a Student Trustee for the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB) further demonstrates her dedication to student wellbeing and creative problem-solving for impactful solutions.
Youth Tutoring Project
Andrew Mery (He/Him), Aliyah Daya (She/Her), and Bupa Zhang (He/Him)
Founded on April 4, 2023, by Andrew Mery and supported by executives Bupa Zhang and Aliyah Daya, the Youth Tutoring Project (YTP) addresses educational inequalities exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. YTP offers free, high-quality tutoring to K-8 students, aiming to make academic support accessible regardless of socio-economic status. It provides individualized tutoring through one-on-one and drop-in sessions, aligning with the Ontario curriculum and focusing on fostering positive mentor-student relationships.
Since its inception, YTP has expanded into a thriving organization with chapters in Ottawa, Toronto, Vancouver, India, the UAE, and New York. In under two years, it has grown to include over 85 volunteers, serve 130 students, and form partnerships with eight key organizations. YTP has also published more than 60 blogs. Looking forward, YTP remains committed to delivering equitable educational opportunities and plans to continue its global expansion.
Tasneem Zreg (She/Her)
Tasneem Zreg is a visionary leader known for her innovation, creativity, and community engagement. Completing her Bachelor of Commerce Honours with a minor in Literature a year early, she graduated at 20 with honours and Distinction, earning accolades such as the Provost Scholar Award and Dean’s Honour List designation. Her academic excellence was showcased on the Sprott School of Business Grad Showcase.
Tasneem has excelled in various leadership roles, including Project Manager for “Sprott Shares,” where she led a team to develop a strategic plan for a full-time store. She founded CU in the Community to offer group volunteering opportunities for students and has held influential positions at SSCG, the Innovation Hub, and as Head TA for business courses at Carleton University. Her latest initiative, Her Space for Success, focuses on supporting women’s leadership and professional development. Tasneem’s dedication to both professional and volunteer work reflects her commitment to spearheading change through leadership and creativity.
Congratulations to our outstanding 21 Under 21 Award Recipients. Your dedication, resilience, and impactful contributions are truly inspiring, and we are so excited to follow along on your journey to the awards!
Thank you to our sponsors!
