Posted: February 28, 2024
Stacie Smith (BScK'20) was recently named the Emerging Leader for Atlantic Canada as part of the 2023 Canada's Volunteer Awards. Smith is a youth advocate from New Brunswick who helped improve youth mental health in the region. In 2020, she became co-director at the Young Canadian Roundtable on Health (YCRH).
With the onset of COVID-19, Smith's focus shifted to initiatives like ScienceUPFirst and Children’s Healthcare Canada. The goal was to encourage vaccination and improve mental health outcomes.
Smith is also involved with the Coalition for Healthy School Food to reduce food insecurity. This initiative aims to give students healthy meal options and improve well-being.
YCRH has experienced remarkable growth through Smith's leadership. It has expanded its youth membership by 50%, introduced innovative workshops, and created new employment opportunities for young members. This expansion has gained national attention, highlighting the importance of young people's perspectives in public discussions.
Smith's influence extends beyond Atlantic Canada and inspires young individuals across the nation to shape the future of young Canadians.