for the year of 2025

Alumni Spotlight

  • Dhanvin Raj Puppala

    Dhanvin Raj’s time with LBN helped him build strong communication and teaching skills, especially the ability to explain complex ideas clearly—something that now supports both his medical writing and patient care. LBN also played a key role in building his confidence and adaptability, which continue to serve them well in medical school. He is currently in his first year at the University of Galway’s School of Medicine, where he’s involved in student societies and research projects on chronic rhinosinusitis, stoma care training, and coding in healthcare. Dhanvin recently won the Best Scientific Careers Challenge and is expanding his experience through writing, research, and clinical opportunities.

  • Maya Sato-Klemm

    Maya’s experience with LBN played an important role in developing her problem-solving skills and ability to think creatively—skills that have been foundational in both her academic and professional journey. During her time with LBN, Maya learned how to think outside of the box and approach challenges with patience, adaptability, and innovative thinking. These qualities have proven to be indispensable across every role she’s held since, and she anticipates they will be just as crucial in her future career as a doctor. Maya recently completed her degree in Kinesiology and Neurobiology at the University of British Columbia, and she has applied to UBC’s Faculty of Medicine with hopes of beginning her medical studies in September. Beyond her academic pursuits, Maya has also leaned into her creative side. She recently launched her own small business, Everyday Reverie, where she designs and sells handmade jewelry.

  • Tavneet Jandu

    Tavneet’s time with LBN sparked her passion for mentorship and education by showing her the power of working with people on a personal level and building relationships based on trust. She has seen how meaningful interactions can help students flourish—not only as learners in the classroom, but as lifelong learners who are curious about the world around her. Now in her third year at UBC, specializing in Biomechanics and Nutrition, Tavneet finds fulfillment in creating supportive, people-centered communities. Whether she is teaching students, mentoring volunteers, or collaborating with the LBN team, she is committed to fostering relationships that uplift those around her. After graduating in 2026, she plans to pursue a Bachelor of Education to continue empowering others through teaching and mentorship

  • Brendan Lu

    Brendan is currently taking a gap year and working as a high school educational assistant. This fall, he will be starting his Master’s at the University of Toronto. LBN played a significant role in his professional and academic journey. It introduced him to the working world in many ways—through responsibility, contracts, communication, and opportunities for promotion, which led to him holding multiple positions within the organization. As a coordinator, Brendan gained insight into what happens behind the scenes, from preparing materials before sessions to completing reports afterward. Facilitating sessions on-site also gave him the unique opportunity to observe up to eight different sessions in a short time, which he found to be one of the most valuable parts of his experience.

  • Alefiya Cuttleriwala

    Alefiya’s time with LBN sparked her interest in education by giving her the opportunity to work with children for the first time while living abroad during the pandemic. Working closely with students, teachers, and fellow mentors, she discovered the impact of making learning joyful and accessible—especially through reading. Now working as an Orton-Gillingham tutor for students with learning differences, Alefiya continues to build on the skills and passion she developed at LBN. She is committed to helping students thrive through personalized, engaging instruction and is planning to pursue a Master’s in Speech and Language Pathology to further her impact in the field.

  • Kevin Yu

    Kevin’s time with LBN played a big role in shaping his leadership skills and passion for helping others. As a Program Supervisor, he led up to four pods at a time, each with different mentors, buddies, and challenges. The experience taught him how to work with a wide range of people, communicate effectively, and problem-solve in real time. He found himself looking forward to every session and valued the opportunity to grow alongside the LBN community. Now in his final year of undergrad, Kevin is preparing to start a Master of Management in summer–fall 2025. He’s especially interested in management consulting, business analytics, and using his skills to make a difference. He recently founded M.A.D. Pro Bono Consulting, a non-profit consultancy currently working with three organizations to provide strategic support. Kevin continues to bring the leadership, teamwork, and sense of purpose he developed at LBN into every project he takes on.

  • Tomson Lui

    Tomson is currently a second-year medical student at the University of St Andrews in the UK. His time with LBN played a meaningful role in shaping the skills and values he brings to his studies today. Through volunteering, he developed key leadership, communication, and organizational skills, which not only strengthened his university applications but also prepared him to take on leadership roles within his academic community. Above all, Tomson feels as if LBN taught him the value of positivity and patience, qualities that continue to guide him as he navigates the challenges of medical education and works toward becoming a compassionate and capable healthcare professional.

  • Joanna Xia

    Joanna is currently finishing her final year of law school at UBC and will soon begin articling in the field of intellectual property law. Her time with LBN helped her strengthen her leadership skills and take part in a wide range of meaningful projects as a member of the Board. It also gave her the chance to work with people from diverse backgrounds and perspectives, which shaped her collaborative approach to both academic and professional settings.

    The strategic planning and teamwork skills Joanna developed at LBN have continued to serve her well throughout law school and beyond. She describes LBN as the most impactful and meaningful volunteer experience she’s ever had, and wholeheartedly recommends it to anyone looking to grow both personally and professionally.