Surrey’s vibrant community came together to honour extraordinary individuals at the Surrey Now-Leader Community Leader Awards, and one name that stood out was Suhana Gill. Recognized as this year’s Environmental Leader, the 18-year-old changemaker’s compelling story of youth-driven environmental activism captivated attendees.
Born and raised in Surrey, Suhana has always embraced challenges with determination. Reflecting on her journey during the awards ceremony, she shared how her passion for creating a sustainable future began early in life. After graduating high school at just 15, Suhana knew she wanted to dedicate herself to making a meaningful impact rather than adhering to conventional timelines. This drive led her to launch Bluer & Greener, an initiative empowering young people to take actionable steps toward combating climate change.
“My environmental journey started small,” she shared, “with conversations among peers and organizing local events. But over time, I realized that even the smallest actions could ripple outward to create significant change.” Through Bluer & Greener, Suhana has mobilized youth in Surrey and beyond, organizing tree-planting events, waste reduction workshops, and advocacy campaigns highlighting sustainability’s importance.
Her efforts challenge the misconception that young people lack the experience to address global challenges. She emphasized that the climate crisis doesn’t wait for anyone to “be ready” and that action, no matter how small, can inspire systemic change.
Suhana credits her success to a collective effort. “None of this would have been possible without the support of my family and community,” she said, acknowledging the unwavering encouragement of her parents, who were present to celebrate her achievement. For Suhana, the award serves as a reminder that addressing environmental challenges requires unity and collaboration.
Beyond her environmental work, Suhana is also an advocate for mental health, women’s empowerment, and youth engagement in politics. As the Women’s Representative for the Kwantlen Student Association, she consistently champions initiatives that uplift her peers and encourage them to become change agents.
Receiving the Environmental Leader Award has further fueled Suhana’s determination to continue her mission of inspiring others. “This recognition isn’t just for me; it’s for every young person who has ever been told they’re too small or too young to make a difference,” she said. “Your ideas, your voice, and your actions matter.” The evening ended with an overwhelming sense of optimism, sparked by Suhana’s words and accomplishments. As she reflected on the road ahead, Suhana’s focus remained clear: to leave behind a legacy of blue skies and green earth for future generations.
With her award in hand and her message resonating with all who heard it, Suhana is more determined than ever to lead the charge for a sustainable future. Her story reminds us all that true leadership comes from passion, resilience, and the courage to act, no matter the obstacles.