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 Facilitator
Ilayda (She/Her) holds a degree in Cognitive Systems from UBC and is passionate about education, art, community, mental health, and Two-Eyed Seeing. She supports youth resilience and sings in a local band, writes, and enjoys the outdoors.
Youth Facilitator
Jimena (She/Her) is an Honours Psychology undergraduate at UBC with a focus on youth mental health and well-being. She facilitates weekly programs that create an inclusive, supportive space for all youth participants.
Youth Facilitator
Samir (He/Him) is studying an Associate of Arts in Business at Alexander College in Burnaby. He brings energy, positivity, and motivation to the team, contributing to LOVE BC’s mission and helping create a positive impact.
Youth Facilitator
Sarah (She/Her) is a UBC Psychology graduate with experience in mentorship, teaching assistance, and youth programming. Passionate about social work, equity, and community empowerment, she co-facilitates weekly youth programs at LOVE BC.
Youth Facilitator
Sheryn (She/They) graduated from Queen’s University in Psychology and has experience in equity work, youth engagement, and community involvement. They enjoy art, music, and spending time with their two cats.
Youth Facilitator
Tiffany (She/Her) has five years of experience in social services and supports youth with openness, empathy, curiosity, encouragement, and humor. She is passionate about mental health and empowerment, helping youth explore and grow in a supportive environment.
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 a corporate and securities lawyer with 20 years’ experience advising companies on governance and strategy. He is passionate about youth development and believes physical activity is key to personal growth and well-being.
Director
Aarushi is a Biomedical Engineer 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 Manager of Communications and Stakeholder Relations with the Office of the Premier of British Columbia and leads high-level communications, crisis management, and cross-ministerial initiatives.
Director
Kaycee brings expertise in Health Equity Initiatives, working many years in the healthcare industry and Vancouver Coastal Heal. She is now the Director of Community Development at Collingwood Neighborhood House with a strong focus on innovation and collaboration towards impacftul changes.
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.
