The Nature Canada Awards represent our heartfelt tribute to the exhausting work and dedication of those wonderful people. All of our winners have confirmed themselves to be forces of nature, for nature!
The 2025 Charles Labatiuk Youth for Nature Award: Ella Yan
Ella Yan, Winner of the 2025 Charles Labatiuk Youth for Nature Award
Presently a grade 12 scholar at Moscrop Secondary College in Burnaby, BC, Ella has additionally been an govt of the Burnaby Youth Sustainability Community, the place she’s helped lead over 20 local weather justice workshops for college students. Via this work, Ella has impressed the following technology to undertake sustainable practices and grow to be energetic environmental advocates.
Past her management with the community, Ella has participated within the Ocean Clever “Mountains to Oceans” program, the place she was capable of contribute to marine conservation efforts and native shoreline cleanups, defending wildlife habitats whereas constructing connections with different passionate younger leaders. “One of the vital inspiring moments for me, “ she says, “was seeing younger youngsters taking part at clear ups — proof that consciousness can spark lifelong environmental stewardship.”
Ella is at present launching a brand new group referred to as Sustainable Youths, which focuses on empowering younger individuals to guide sustainability initiatives, advocate for environmental coverage, and create equitable entry to eco-education. “What drives me most,” she says, “is seeing youth uncover their very own skill to make change — turning small acts into actions that shield our planet.”
Ella’s dedication extends past organized occasions and campaigns — she actively integrates sustainable practices into her every day life. From aware consumption to waste discount, she leads by instance, modeling the small however significant adjustments that, when practiced collectively, create lasting environmental impression. Via her management, initiative, and private dedication, Ella exemplifies how younger individuals can play a significant function in advancing conservation and provoking group motion
“Successful the Charles Labatiuk Youth for Nature Award is each an honour and a motivation,” she says. “Personally, it jogs my memory that even small actions can create ripples of change after we work collectively for a shared trigger.”
Ella is grateful to the Burnaby Youth Sustainability Community, Ocean Clever, and Alternatives for College students in addition to the Burnaby District College Board. She particularly needs to thank her household “who’ve all the time supported me and helped me with every of my initiatives.”