A Burnaby youth has earned a spot on a prestigious federal council.
David He was named by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to the Prime Minister’s Youth Council, forming the council’s fifth cohort since its creation in 2016. From wide-ranging backgrounds and unique lived experiences, these young Canadians are eager to share their voices and work towards a consciously more inclusive Canada.
The 18-year-old is a high school student at Pearson College UWC, an international boarding school. He previously was a student at Moscrop for four years (grades 8-11).
“In the council, I'm working to address the rising racism in our city amid the COVID-19 pandemic, with the sharp increase in hate crimes and attacks,” He told the NOW. “I'm also working on submitting a policy proposal on ending the discriminatory blood donation ban with some of my colleagues this month.”
Other members include:
- Haleema Ahmed from Markham, Ontario
- Marianne Arseneau from Fredericton, New Brunswick
- Abhinav Dhillon from Edmonton, Alberta
- Maël Houck from Montréal, Quebec
- Ira Mamis from Whitehorse, Yukon
- Sarah Mazhero from Chesterfield Inlet, Nunavut
- Jenna Robar from Bedford, Nova Scotia
- Nalyn Tindall from Camrose, Alberta
- Topaza Yu from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
Council members provide non-partisan advice to the Prime Minister and the Government of Canada on issues of importance from climate change to reconciliation.
“I am pleased to welcome the newest council members and look forward to working with them and hearing their perspectives on issues that have an impact on all Canadians,” said Trudeau, in a statement. “The Youth Council’s input and ideas are invaluable to our government. I thank the past council members of Cohort 3 for their commitment and contributions.”
With the addition of these 10 new members, the Council now comprises 18 members, including the members from the fourth cohort, whose term started in July 2019 and is scheduled to end in December 2021.
