As I sit down to reflect on some amazing recent experiences, including being named one of Canada's Top 10 Youth Leaders, receiving the Service Above Self (SASSY) award, and being honored as one of Surrey's Top 25 Under 25—I am filled with gratitude for the chance to share my work, while also first-hand noticing that the true reward always lies in the impact we make. Recently, I had the privilege of being invited to Toronto to participate in the National Youth Summit and celebrate the Top 10 Youth Leaders in Canada. I was honored to be one of 10 youth changemakers chosen for this award, namely for my immense passion for health advocacy, community service, and equity.
During this trip, I was invited to share my insights and speak as a panelist alongside distinguished figures like Parliamentary Secretary Lisa Hepfner and renowned human rights activist/former Miss World Canada Nazanin Afshin-Jam, which was truly a transformative experience. Engaging with Honourable Minister of Families, Children and Social Development Jenna Sudds and other visionary leaders such as Sophie Grégoire Trudeau, I was reminded of the immense power of collaboration and the importance of diverse perspectives in driving meaningful change. I truly believe youth voices are essential in combating issues of today, and as I listened to the stories of my fellow peers from across the country, I was inspired by their unwavering dedication and innovative approaches to addressing complex issues. It reinforced my belief that advocacy is not just about raising awareness; it's about forging tangible pathways to success and ensuring that every young person has access to the resources and support they need to reach their full potential.
I am so grateful for the incredible mentors and community at Southridge who have supported me in every step of the way. I hope to continue working hard to inspire other youth to make a difference, and demonstrate that meaningful change can be achieved through resilience and dedication.
Contributed by Hanna Grover, Grade 10 Student
www.poet2poet.com
Hanna Grover is a strong advocate for children’s rights, youth mental health and ardently committed to combating discrimination and forging pathways to success for young Canadians. Her journey began with the founding of Poet2Poet, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing a safe space for young poets to share their creative writing pieces and support one another. Through Poet2Poet, Hanna aims to create a community where everyone’s thoughts and emotions can be heard through poetry, fostering a supportive environment for youth writers to flourish.
Recognizing the importance of health literacy among children and youth, Hanna also developed the Health Education Advocacy and Research Team (HEART). This program delivers workshops on health and nutrition to elementary school students, aiming to empower them with essential knowledge for a healthy lifestyle. Her commitment to children’s well-being extends beyond education and mental health to include access to safe healthcare, evidenced by her collaborations with organizations like B.C Children’s Hospital and Our Kids Health.
Hanna’s advocacy work has garnered recognition, including awards such as Surrey’s Top 25 Under 25, Canada Health Grant For Youth, and more. Her efforts have made a tangible impact, with initiatives like the book drive for educational equity benefiting over 2000 students and the HEART program set to be implemented in schools across Canada.
In addition to her impactful initiatives, Hanna has actively collaborated with local schools, soup kitchens, and national organizations to advocate for children’s rights and improve access to essential services. Her work reflects a commitment to inclusivity and breaking down barriers for young Canadians, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive and access the resources they need.
Hanna’s journey is one of resilience, dedication, and compassion, embodying the spirit of positive change and empowerment for future generations.
https://childrenfirstcanada.org/award-winner/hanna-grover/
Hanna is a multifaceted advocate for education, health, and wellness, recognized nationally for her literary prowess. As the founder of Poet2Poet, a non-profit empowering young poets, she provides a platform for aspiring writers to share their work and creativity. Poet2Poet has gained acclaim from Surrey Libraries and educators in BC for its transformative impact on youth expression.
Hanna’s dedication extends to promoting digital health with Our Kids Health and locally through the Health Education Advocacy and Research Team (HEART), earning her Canada’s School Health Grant for Youth. Her accolades include placements in national debating championships and literary awards. Hanna is a grade 10 student at Southridge School in Surrey and will graduate in 2026.
https://businessinsurrey.com/events/surreys-top-25-under-25-awards/