2025 Champion Award Recipient | Honouring BC Child and Youth in Care Week
Each year, during BC Child and Youth in Care Week Aunt Leah’s celebrates the strength, determination and contributions of the young people we serve. Staff and peers nominate individuals who have shown exceptional leadership, growth, and care, and winners are selected across five award categories. At a special celebration, we gather to honour their achievements.
This year, we are proud to honour Jaya, a 17-year-old Métis youth and Support Link participant, as the 2025 Champion Award recipient.
Since joining the program in April 2025, Jaya has stood out for her compassion, leadership, and strong sense of community. From the moment she joined, Jaya stood out as someone who leads with empathy and consistently uplifts those around her. But Jaya’s commitment to service began long before her time with us.
She has volunteered in elementary schools helping younger students with schoolwork and activities, and also dedicated time to supporting elders. She continues to be involved in this work by MCing and waitressing at local elders’ events at Metis Family Services—roles that highlight her confidence, warmth, and commitment to making others feel valued.
Jaya is also a former school committee member, where she helped organize inclusive events and advocated for student well-being. Her leadership was rooted in kindness and the desire to make
sure everyone felt included and heard. Since joining Support Link, she has carried this same spirit forward—offering support to peers, checking in on friends, and sharing what she has with
those who may have less, including food and snacks. These small but powerful acts of generosity show her natural ability to care for others without seeking recognition.
Within the program, Jaya actively participates in group activities and contributes to a welcoming, supportive environment. She listens deeply, speaks up with confidence when needed, and treats
staff and peers alike with respect. Her maturity and emotional intelligence are evident in how she navigates challenges and supports others through their own.
Looking ahead, Jaya hopes to continue her advocacy by joining Aunt Leah’s Youth Advisory Committee and becoming a peer advisor for other youth in foster care. With her lived experience
and passion for helping others, she is incredibly well-positioned to inspire and support fellow youth navigating similar journeys.
Jaya is a grounded, compassionate, and powerful young person whose leadership and heart leave a lasting impact on everyone she meets. She is a truly deserving for this award and a shining
example of what it means to lead with purpose and kindness.
About The Champion Award
The Champion award is given in honour of Aunt Leah’s former Human Resources Coordinator Jennifer McFarlane. Jennifer established connections with everyone at Aunt Leah’s using humor, laughter, thoughtfulness, and appreciation. Jennifer loved that her work in Human Resources was part of Aunt Leah’s mission. She had a deep appreciation for the community of support established at Aunt Leah’s and the services provided. In honour of Jennifer, Aunt Leah’s presents an annual award and bursary to an individual who has been active in championing positive change for youth and families affected by the foster care system.
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