Presenting the RBC 21 Under 21 Award Recipients
☆ 2025 Edition ☆
Meet the Young Leaders Shaping Our Future!
For 28 years, Youth Ottawa has been at the forefront of celebrating youth empowerment and honouring the outstanding contributions of young individuals in our community. The 21 Under 21 Awards Gala, presented by RBC, continues this proud tradition, highlighting youth aged 14-21 who have shown exceptional initiative, passion, and leadership in both their local and global communities.
We’re thrilled to introduce this year’s recipients—21 inspiring young trailblazers from across the city who have gone above and beyond to make a positive impact. Through community engagement, personal development, and innovative enterprises, these youth are making a lasting difference. Get to know our amazing award recipients below!
You’re invited to the celebration!
Join us in honouring Ottawa’s most inspiring young leaders at the RBC 21 Under 21 Youth Awards Gala on November 5th, 2025, from 5:00–10:00 PM at the Canadian Museum of History.
Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available now— don’t miss your chance to take part in one of Ottawa’s most meaningful celebrations of youth.
Alador Bereketab
Alador Bereketab is an incoming medical student at the University of Ottawa and a graduate of McMaster University’s Health Sciences program. She is the founder of the McMaster Black Health Conference and has served in leadership roles advancing equity, mentorship, and student representation. Beyond academia, she co-founded a registered charity supporting youth mental health and has used her platform as a violinist and author to expand access to arts and education. Her work bridges research, advocacy, and creativity to promote inclusive communities.
Sammita Chowdhury
Sammita Chowdhury is a Biomedical Science student at the University of Ottawa recognized for her leadership in advocacy, education, and community service. She has contributed to youth advisory committees, national policy discussions, and cultural initiatives that promote inclusion and equity. Through volunteer work in healthcare, academic support, and community organizing, she continues to advance opportunities for youth and marginalized communities.
Ibrahim Ghani
Ibrahim Ghani is a Biomedical Sciences student at the University of Ottawa recognized for his achievements in sport, research, and community leadership. He is the founder of the Barrhaven Squash Club, growing opportunities for youth and supporting local causes. A published researcher and recipient of national research funding, he has contributed to studies in neuroscience. Through mentoring, coaching, and community initiatives, he continues to advance wellness and youth engagement.
Ezana Ghedam
Ezana Ghedam is a University of Ottawa student recognized for his contributions to science, mentorship, and community leadership. He has conducted research in diagnostic imaging at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute, supported by national research awards, and has led initiatives making academic and science opportunities more accessible for youth. Through his leadership in student organizations and outreach programs, he continues to promote equity and representation in STEM.
Khelan Gidda
Khelan Gidda is a Biomedical Science student at the University of Ottawa recognized for his contributions to sport, health, and community leadership. He has coached competitive youth soccer, co-founded the uOttawa Sports Medicine Club, and supported research in orthopaedics and primary care. Through wellness education platforms and mentorship initiatives, he continues to promote fitness, health, and inclusion for youth and the broader community.
Lisa Han
Lisa Han is a high school International Baccalaureate student recognized for her leadership in literacy, equity, and innovation. She co-founded LitSpark Youth, a nonprofit advancing access to books and learning tools, and has contributed to STEM innovation through international competitions. In addition to her volunteerism with community organizations and research support in health sciences, she continues to promote accessible education and civic engagement for youth.
Zakia Irfan
Zakia Irfan is a McGill University student in microbiology and immunology recognized for her leadership in healthcare education and advocacy. She has contributed to youth-focused outreach programs, co-authored High School Pre-Med to guide students exploring medical careers, and spoken at international conferences on representation in healthcare. Through her academic work, community service, and creative projects, she continues to advance equity and innovation in science and medicine.
Ankita Jain
Ankita Jain is a national-level chess player and founder of the Kanata Chess Academy, Ottawa’s largest youth chess organization. Through her leadership, she has introduced hundreds of children to the game while raising funds for local charities and health initiatives. Beyond chess, she contributes to youth leadership programs, technology innovation, and community service, earning recognition for her ability to inspire and empower the next generation.
Angelyn Joseph
Angelyn Joseph is a Biomedical Science student at the University of Ottawa recognized for her leadership in health, research, and community service. She has contributed to scientific research at the University of Ottawa, co-founded youth-led initiatives addressing food insecurity and mental wellness, and has led fundraising efforts in support of cancer research. Her work has also included collaborations on global innovation projects with organizations such as the United Nations Environment Programme.
Olantu Nini
Olantu Nini is a student at Carleton University recognized for her leadership in advocacy, cultural engagement, and youth empowerment. She has represented youth on local, national, and international platforms, including cultural organizations and peace initiatives. Through her work in student associations, community service, and creative projects, she continues to promote inclusion, representation, and social justice.
Israel Nkusi
Israel Nkusi is a storyteller and youth leader recognized for using creativity to strengthen community and empower young people. As founder of Maisha Mingi, he has launched programs that provide youth with opportunities in music, leadership, and self-expression, including workshops and mentorship initiatives. He also contributes to advisory committees and cultural programs that expand representation and belonging for youth in Ottawa.
Anerie Patel
Anerie Patel is a high school International Baccalaureate student recognized for her leadership in STEM, community service, and youth empowerment. She has developed award-winning technology projects, including applications in wellness and health, earning recognition at regional, national, and international competitions. Beyond innovation, she contributes as a referee, robotics mentor, and volunteer fundraiser, supporting programs in sport, science education, and healthcare.
Summay Rudra
Summay Rudra is a Health Sciences student recognized for his leadership in research, service, and community engagement. He has contributed to health research at institutions including CHEO and The Ottawa Hospital, and co-led initiatives such as Food for the Capital, which supported local food banks. Through volunteerism, mentorship, and youth leadership programs, he continues to promote equity, innovation, and community well-being.
Krishnpriya Singh
Krishnpriya Singh is a graduate of the University of Ottawa’s Interdisciplinary Health Sciences program, recognized for her academic excellence and leadership. She has contributed to healthcare research at The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute and the Bruyère Research Institute, focusing on innovation, ethics, and inclusivity in medicine. She also serves as a Junior Strategic Advisor at the Canadian Medical Association and will begin her Master of Science in Bioethics at Harvard Medical School.
Tomor Sopa
Tomor Sopa is a Health Sciences student at the University of Ottawa recognized for his academic excellence, research, and community leadership. He has contributed to cardiac research, served in leadership roles with local health initiatives, and volunteered across multiple organizations supporting patient care and community health. In addition to his academic and service work, he is a dedicated musician who shares his passion for music through performances and mentorship.
Grace Leah Tongue
Grace Leah Tongue is a University of Ottawa Health Sciences student recognized for her leadership in research, mentorship, and philanthropy. She has revitalized student organizations, led a major undergraduate research conference, and contributed to award-winning innovation initiatives. Through her work with fundraising campaigns, volunteerism at CHEO, and peer mentorship, she continues to strengthen health, education, and community engagement across Ottawa.
Hannah Vermeij
Hannah Vermeij is a recent graduate of Elmwood School recognized for her leadership in academics, athletics, and the arts. She has organized community fundraisers, volunteered locally and internationally, and contributed to the performing arts through theatre, improv, and published poetry. As both an athlete and advocate for inclusive education, she continues to demonstrate a commitment to creativity, service, and leadership.
Apple Wang
Apple Wang is a high school student recognized for her leadership in building inclusive communities and advancing youth innovation. She co-founded student associations that promote cultural connection across Ottawa and launched a youth business platform supporting young artists. She has also earned recognition in STEM competitions at regional and national levels, combining creativity and entrepreneurship to inspire her peers.
Nieve Xiao
Nieve Xiao is a high school student at Lisgar Collegiate Institute recognized for her leadership in student representation, wellness, and community service. She serves as a Student Trustee with the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board and co-leads initiatives such as Lisgar’s Breakfast Program, which provides thousands of meals annually. Through her work in mental health advocacy and youth advisory roles, she continues to promote equity, inclusion, and student voice across Ottawa.
Levana Xu
Levana Xu is a Pharmacology student at McGill University recognized for her contributions to research, mentorship, and healthcare innovation. She has conducted studies in areas such as cancer, therapeutics, and women’s health, and has led initiatives improving access to research opportunities for students. Through mentorship programs and community-based health projects, she continues to promote equity and inclusion in science and healthcare.
Maryam Yassin
Maryam Yassin is a University of Ottawa student currently starting her Master’s in Epidemiology and Applied Health Research. She is recognized for her contributions to health research and community leadership. She has advanced projects in rare disease research at the CHEO Research Institute and has led major fundraising and outreach initiatives through Relay for Life, Canadian Blood Services, and Let’s Talk Science. Her work highlights a strong commitment to equity, mentorship, and innovation in healthcare.
Congratulations to our outstanding 21 Under 21 Award Recipients. You inspire us with your dedication, resilience, and impactful contributions, and we are so excited to follow along on your journey!
Thank you to our sponsors!
