LOVE BC continues to grow in demand 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
With 10 years of activism for trans rights and anti-racism, combined with doing stand-up comedy, I’ve learned to use art as a tool for self-expression and healing. Community-driven, I hope to bring youth the platform and resources they need to face the world, discover themselves, and build lives in which they can be proud of themselves.
Youth Lead Facilitator
Hiya I’m Sophie ! I graduated from UBC with a degree in International Relations and have years of experience in program planning, community engagement, and supporting vulnerable youth. I’m passionate about all things social justice – from food sovereignty to accessibility rights to mental health advocacy!
When not at work, I can be found running/biking/hiking through the North Shore mountains, playing my ukulele, or experimenting with a new recipe.
Youth Outreach Facilitator
I’m Lavender, and I’m currently an undergraduate at UBC completing my BA in The Study of Religion. I’m incredibly passionate about restorative and transformative justice, as well as connection, all paths of spirituality, and community care. I’ve been a part of North Shore Restorative Justice’s as a participant and mentor, as well as co-creator of a youth social justice collective. I’m excited to bring my experience from Out On Screen, Campus United, Foundry and working as a Child Care worker, to LOVE BC. A writer, creative, and witchy human, I enjoy reading tarot and finding magic wherever I go.
Youth Outreach Facilitator
Hi ! I’m Valerie, a recent UBC Psychology graduate with a passion for positive change. From age 15, my passion has always fell within working with youth. With experience as a Crisis Line Responder, Behavioural Interventionist, and Child Care worker, I hope to merge my passion for developmental support and youth work experience in my new role as Youth Facilitator at LOVE BC. Outside of work, you can catch me reading thrillers, watching tv dramas, and doing pilates.
