for the year of 2026
Featured Volunteers
Month of May
-

Sarah Banks
FEATURED MENTOR
Sarah has been a thoughtful, hardworking, and kind mentor who brings a strong sense of care to her role. She leads by example through her heart of service, positive attitude, and the way she supports those around her both within and beyond the program. Her dedication and genuine care make her a joy to work with and a meaningful presence in the LBN community. Thank you, Sarah, for the warmth and leadership you bring to Learning Buddies.
-

Adora Azad
FEATURED PROGRAM COORDINATOR
Adora has been an exceptional Program Coordinator whose dedication, compassion, and dependability shine through in every session. She goes above and beyond to support mentors and buddies, whether through thoughtful feedback, engaging activities, helpful preparation, or the encouraging presence she brings to huddles. Adora creates a welcoming and positive environment where mentors feel supported and students can enjoy meaningful learning experiences. Thank you, Adora, for the care and leadership you bring to Learning Buddies.
-

Owen Wong
FEATURED EXECUTIVE COORDINATOR
Owen has been a steady and committed Executive Coordinator whose empathy, resilience, and reliability have made a lasting impact on the Sunset pod. Over many terms, he has continued to support the program with care and perseverance, helping navigate challenges while creating a supportive environment for those around him. His consistency and dedication have made him an important part of the LBN community. Thank you, Owen, for your continued leadership and support at Learning Buddies.
-
-

Emma Ly Chan
FEATURED VOLUNTEER TEAM MEMBER
Emma has been a reliable, welcoming, and proactive member of the team whose support made a meaningful difference during our recruitment event. She stepped up to help manage the booth and represented LBN in a warm and professional way, helping everything run more smoothly while creating a positive experience for prospective volunteers. Her initiative and thoughtful support were truly appreciated. Thank you, Emma, for the energy and care you bring to Learning Buddies.
Month of May
-

Jayna Rae Laserna
FEATURED MENTOR
Jayna has been a compassionate, adaptable and reliable mentor. She thoughtfully adapts her sessions to meet the needs of her buddy, focusing on vocabulary, comprehension, and phonics. Jayna helps her create a comfortable space where her buddy feels safe asking questions and growing from mistakes. Her enthusiasm and patience help her buddy build confidence in every session, inspiring her buddies to develop a love for reading that fuels them to explore different aspects of reading that they have yet to discover! Thank you, Jayna, for the inspiration and adaptability you bring to Learning Buddies.
-

Kiana Montakhab
FEATURED PROGRAM COORDINATOR
Kiana brings genuine dedication, compassion, and warmth to every session in her role as Program Coordinator. She is hardworking and consistently comes prepared with thoughtful ideas to support both mentors and buddies. Kiana cares deeply about the wellbeing and growth of everyone in her pod, taking the time to encourage mentors, provide helpful feedback, and make sure they feel supported in their roles. She also keeps the buddies’ learning experience at the centre of her work by creating an environment where they can feel comfortable, motivated, and excited to participate. Her kindness, enthusiasm, and approachable nature help her build strong connections within the Learning Buddies community. Thank you, Kiana, for the commitment, care, and energy you bring so you can make a meaningful impact through the Learning Buddies Network.
-

Oniza Syed
FEATURED EXECUTIVE COORDINATOR
Oniza has shown incredible reliability, flexibility, and compassion throughout her nearly five years with Learning Buddies Network. Her growth as a leader is reflected in the thoughtful support she gives mentors helping them to tailor their sessions to their buddies' individual needs. She also helps make reading more engaging by incorporating the interests of each buddy into sessions. Oniza demonstrates her leadership and flexibility under pressure when she steps in during times of need to help with recruitment and mentoring. Thank you, Oniza, for your leadership and continued dedication to LBN!
-
-

Duneesha De Silva
FEATURED VOLUNTEER TEAM MEMBER
Duneesha has been a reliable, supportive, and compassionate member of the Communications Team since 2023. As a Team Lead for the Design Team, she brings care and thoughtfulness to the way she supports those around her, helping create a positive volunteering experience for her team members. She is exceptional at independently addressing issues as they arise for the Communications Team members to ensure they have a smooth volunteering experience. She is communicative, dependable, and a true pleasure to work with. Thank you, Duneesha, for your care and leadership at Learning Buddies!
Month of April
-

Aneeshjot Kaur
FEATURED MENTOR
Aneeshjot has shown heartfelt dedication through the respect, honesty, and care she brings to her role. In every interaction, she strives to make others feel supported, valued, and safe, and her kindness and sincerity shine through in the way she listens and shows up for those around her. Volunteering is clearly something she cares deeply about, and that genuine commitment is felt in the patience and compassion she brings to others. Her respectful and trustworthy nature makes her a meaningful part of the LBN community. Thank you for the warmth and wholehearted support you bring to Learning Buddies.
-

Isha Gill
FEATURED PROGRAM COORDINATOR
Isha has been an incredible volunteer and Program Coordinator whose kindness and support have made a real difference to those around her. She is always willing to step in and help, whether it is answering questions, supporting team members, or assisting staff when needed. Her dependable presence and genuine care for others reflect the thoughtfulness she brings to her role each week. Thank you, Isha, for the consistency and compassion that you continue to bring to Learning Buddies.
-

Renee Fu
FEATURED EXECUTIVE COORDINATOR
Renee has been a dedicated and dependable Executive Coordinator who brings care, leadership, and steady support to the Alder Reading Pod. She works hard to create a smooth and welcoming experience for both mentors and families, handling technical issues, scheduling changes, and unexpected challenges with empathy and professionalism. Her thoughtful approach helps ensure that students feel seen and volunteers feel supported in their roles. Renee’s passion and leadership make her an important part of the LBN community. Thank you, Renee, for the commitment and guidance you continue to bring to Learning Buddies.
-
-

Yihan Hu
FEATURED VOLUNTEER TEAM MEMBER
Yihan has been a steady and dependable member of the System Support team, consistently contributing behind the scenes to help programs run smoothly. He approaches his work with care, curiosity, and attention to detail, and is always willing to learn in order to better support the team. Whether he is assisting with data analysis or helping resolve smaller issues that improve overall efficiency, Yihan brings thoughtful effort to everything he does. Thank you, Yihan, for the consistency and support you bring to Learning Buddies.
Month of March
-

Denny Wu
FEATURED MENTOR
Denny Wu has been a thoughtful and dependable mentor who brings kindness, care, and consistency to every session. He is always punctual, flexible, and ready to support both his buddy and those around him. His strong bond with his buddy, along with the care he puts into detailed session comments, reflects his genuine commitment to mentorship. Denny’s warm presence, reliability, and willingness to help make him a valued part of the LBN community. We truly appreciate the intelligence, compassion, and dedication he brings to his role.
-

Sivaniga Kanagasingam
FEATURED PROGRAM COORDINATOR
Sivaniga stands out for the heart and energy she brings to her pod. She is deeply committed to making sure mentors and buddies feel supported, successful, and able to enjoy their time in the program. Her effort to go above and beyond shows in the positive and welcoming space she helps create for everyone around her. With her kind, caring, and fun-loving nature, Sivaniga helps make LBN a place where people feel encouraged to connect, grow, and have a meaningful experience.
-

Helena Azizi
FEATURED EXECUTIVE COORDINATOR
Helena brings a strong sense of purpose to her role as a coordinator, always looking for ways to strengthen both the mentor experience and the quality of each session. She is highly intentional in how she supports her pod, balancing accountability with encouragement and making sure mentors receive thoughtful, actionable feedback that helps them grow. Her close collaboration with the Teacher Liaison and willingness to keep learning reflect how seriously she takes her role. She also contributes to a positive and engaging environment for buddies, helping create sessions that feel supportive, well-run, and meaningful. Helena’s proactive mindset, attention to detail, and genuine commitment to improvement have made her an important part of the LBN community.
-
-

Vashna Gounder
FEATURED VOLUNTEER TEAM MEMBER
Vashna is a thoughtful and capable Regional Officer who plays an important leadership role in Learning Buddies Network’s recruitment efforts. As a leader within the Recruitment Engagement Team, she helps guide outreach initiatives, supports team members, and contributes to building a strong and welcoming volunteer community. Her leadership, initiative, and consistent support have made a meaningful impact on both the team and the organization. We are very grateful for the care, effort, and leadership Vashna brings to LBN.
Month of February
-

Avelyn Thambiratnam
FEATURED MENTOR
Avelyn has been an incredible mentor whose care, adaptability, and enthusiasm have stood out throughout the term. Even as a new mentor, she quickly adjusted to her buddy’s needs and created an engaging, supportive learning environment. Avelyn’s creativity, positive energy, and genuine commitment to her buddies have made a meaningful impact. We are so grateful for the warmth, and thoughtfulness she brings to LBN.
-

Chizzy Onuhoa
FEATURED PROGRAM COORDINATOR
Chizzy is being recognized for the care, encouragement, and consistency she brings to her role as a Program Coordinator. She works hard to create a positive and supportive environment where mentors feel comfortable, valued, and motivated. Through her thoughtful leadership and steady presence, she helps foster strong relationships and a sense of community within her pod. Her dedication to supporting others and helping sessions run smoothly makes her a valued part of LBN. She leads with kindness, open communication, and a genuine commitment to ensuring those around her feel heard, supported, and appreciated.
-

Ellie Lau
FEATURED EXECUTIVE COORDINATOR
Ellie brings a steady, thoughtful presence to the program and leads with both confidence and care. Her strong sense of organization, professionalism, and teamwork helps create an environment where buddies and mentors can feel secure, supported, and set up for success. She is attentive to the needs of those around her, takes concerns seriously, and offers feedback that is both thoughtful and constructive. What makes her stand out is the way she balances leadership with genuine support for others. She remains composed in challenging moments, helps keep the program running smoothly, and creates space for each person’s strengths to shine. Her reliability, awareness, and commitment make her an important part of the LBN community.
-
-

Rychelle Wang
FEATURED VOLUNTEER TEAM MEMBER
Rychelle is a dedicated and dependable Program Team Member who plays an important role in supporting Learning Buddies Network mentors. Her kindness, reliability, and willingness to help wherever needed contribute to a welcoming and supportive experience for both volunteers and team members. Rychelle brings a positive approach to her role, and her steady commitment helps our programs run more smoothly. We are very grateful for all that she brings to the LBN community.
for the year of 2025
Featured Volunteers
Month of December
-

Pierce Balanuik
FEATURED MENTOR
Pierce is a dedicated and thoughtful mentor who brings patience, care, and consistency to every session. He goes above and beyond to make sure his buddy feels supported, encouraged, and confident, helping create a positive and engaging learning environment. His genuine commitment to making a difference is clear in the way he shows up for his buddy each week. Pierce’s reliability and strong sense of care make him an outstanding role model within the LBN community. We’re grateful for the meaningful impact he has and the example he sets through his dedication.
-

Mariana Babayan
FEATURED PROGRAM COORDINATOR
Mariana brings enthusiasm, care, and a thoughtful approach to each session. They make a genuine effort to create an enjoyable and meaningful experience for their buddy by encouraging conversation, asking engaging questions, and helping stories connect to the buddie’s own life. Their ability to build a connection that goes beyond reading reflects the heart of 1:1 mentoring at LBN. With their warm, non-judgmental, and encouraging presence, they help create a space where students feel comfortable, supported, and excited to learn. We’re grateful for the energy, care, and dedication they bring to their role.
-

Esther Kim
FEATURED EXECUTIVE COORDINATOR
Esther has shown exceptional commitment to LBN through her journey at LBN. In every role, she has brought leadership, care, and a strong sense of responsibility, always working to create a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment for everyone involved. Her dedication is reflected not only in the way she manages responsibilities and responds to unexpected situations with initiative and composure, but also in the small, meaningful ways she helps others feel seen and valued. Esther consistently goes above and beyond to build genuine connections with buddies, mentors, supervisors, and families, while creating a positive space where everyone feels heard and supported. From preparing thoughtful huddle materials in her own time to stepping in when extra support is needed, she brings generosity, leadership, and heart to everything she does. We are incredibly grateful for the care, effort, and uplifting presence Esther continues to bring to the LBN community.
-
-

Flor Angela
FEATURED VOLUNTEER TEAM MEMBER
Flor is being recognized for her consistency, dedication, and commitment to supporting others in her role as a Program Team Member. She shows up reliably, contributes wherever needed, and helps create a positive and supportive experience for both volunteers and team members. Flors efforts as a PTM has helped foster a welcoming and inclusive environment for incoming mentors where strong relationships can grow. She values respect, collaboration, and open communication, and works to ensure those around her feel supported, heard, and appreciated. Her thoughtful approach and steady commitment make her a valued part of the LBN community.
Month of November
-

Jeffrey Wong
FEATURED MENTOR
Jeffrey is an exceptional mentor whose patience, humor, and kindness shine through in every session. He brings a calm, thoughtful presence that helps his buddy feel supported and at ease, and his ability to explain concepts clearly reflects both intelligence and genuine care. Jeffrey is consistently punctual, reliable, and fully engaged; qualities that make him a steady source of encouragement within the program.
What truly sets Jeffrey apart is the way he balances professionalism with warmth. His kind nature and gentle humor create a positive learning environment, and his dedication to showing up prepared each week demonstrates a deep commitment to LBN and its students.
Jeffrey’s impact on his buddy and his team is evident in the confidence he helps build and the supportive atmosphere he fosters. We are grateful for the patient, funny, and kind spirit he brings to our community, and we’re thrilled to recognize him as a featured volunteer.
-

Isha Gill
FEATURED PROGRAM COORDINATOR
Isha is a determined, kind, and dependable Program Coordinator who brings genuine warmth and enthusiasm to every session. She often shares that attending LBN is the highlight of her week — and her dedication makes that easy to believe. Whether she’s supporting buddies, assisting fellow mentors, preparing worksheets, or helping design engaging activities, Isha consistently goes above and beyond in every aspect of her role.
Her kindness creates an encouraging atmosphere, her reliability strengthens her pod, and her willingness to help wherever she’s needed makes her an invaluable member of the LBN community. Isha’s joyful energy and unwavering commitment not only uplift her team but also make a meaningful impact on every student she works with. We are incredibly grateful for everything she brings to LBN.
-

Tanishka Makan
FEATURED EXECUTIVE COORDINATOR
Tanishka is a kind, patient, and honest Executive Coordinator whose growth and resilience have defined their first term in this leadership role. From the beginning, they stepped into a challenging situation — limited mentors and a wide range of student reading levels — yet they approached every obstacle with calm determination and a genuine desire to support her team.
Working closely with her Program Coordinator and Teacher Liaison, Tanishka ensured that the pod ran smoothly and that every mentor felt guided and supported. Their ability to adapt, encourage others, and create a positive learning environment has directly contributed to their pod’s success.
Tanishka’s gratitude, teamwork, and steady leadership shine through in every interaction. They brings warmth, honesty, and a thoughtful presence to their role, making them a standout volunteer and an invaluable part of the LBN community.
-
-

Aidan Zhang
FEATURED VOLUNTEER TEAM MEMBER
Aidan is a proactive, reliable, and supportive Program Team Member who approaches every task with professionalism and genuine care. He ensures that new mentors have a smooth and welcoming start to their LBN journey by conducting interviews thoughtfully, efficiently, and with an encouraging tone that immediately puts volunteers at ease.
His quick responsiveness and clear communication help mentors feel supported from their very first interaction, setting the stage for a positive volunteer experience. Aidan’s steady consistency, reliability, and positive attitude make him an essential part of the Program Team: someone who strengthens our onboarding process and contributes meaningfully to the success of every term.
We’re incredibly grateful for the dedication and warmth he brings to LBN.
Month of October
-

Sofia Prizio
FEATURED MENTOR
Sofia brings a genuine sense of enthusiasm and care to every session she leads. From the moment she joins, it’s clear how deeply she values each learner’s experience. She takes the time to understand her students’ needs, explains concepts clearly, and creates a learning environment where learners feel safe, supported, and confident.
Her patience, reliability, and adaptability shine through in everything she does. Sofia thoughtfully adjusts her approach to meet each student where they are, ensuring that every learner has the opportunity to succeed. Her dedication to making learning positive and accessible reflects her supportive nature and her commitment to helping others grow.
Her consistent presence and compassionate teaching style have made a meaningful impact on her students and her team. We’re incredibly grateful for the patient, dedicated, and supportive energy she brings to LBN each week.
-

Victoria Tan
FEATURED PROGRAM COORDINATOR
Victoria’s presence as a Program Coordinator is defined by her caring, positive, and supportive approach to leadership. She goes above and beyond to make sure every mentor feels valued by taking the time to write thoughtful, detailed comments on mentor reports, and ensuring each person receives the encouragement and guidance they need to grow.
During huddles, Victoria listens attentively, celebrates mentors’ small wins, and creates an environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing their experiences. Her positivity and genuine care foster a sense of trust and connection within the pod, helping mentors feel both supported and inspired.
Victoria’s leadership strengthens her pod in meaningful ways. Her attentiveness, steady encouragement, and authentic compassion make her a pillar of support for her team and a shining example of what it means to lead with heart. We’re incredibly grateful for the warmth, dedication, and uplifting energy she brings to LBN.
-

Felicia Chuy
FEATURED EXECUTIVE COORDINATOR
As an Executive Coordinator at Moberly, Felicia has been a consistently reliable presence and a true source of strength for her team. She approaches every session with calm focus and unwavering professionalism, ensuring that the program runs smoothly and that mentors feel supported. Felicia is known for always being on time, staying attentive throughout sessions, and thoughtfully putting the needs of others before her own.
Her trustworthy nature, and warm leadership style allow her to navigate challenges with ease and confidence. Felicia’s dedication to preparation, her steady encouragement, and her commitment to doing her best in every role she takes on have made a meaningful impact on those around her.
We are incredibly grateful for Felicia’s compassion, reliability, and hard work, qualities that have strengthened her pod and enriched the experiences of everyone she mentors and collaborates with.
-
-

Benjamin Wong
FEATURED VOLUNTEER TEAM MEMBER
Benjamin has been a standout member of the Recruitment Engagement Team, showing unwavering consistency and dedication to LBN’s mission. His passion for engaging with volunteers and supporting the team shines through in everything he does. Whether attending meetings, completing tasks, or contributing ideas, Benjamin always shows up fully prepared, enthusiastic, and ready to make an impact.
He actively participates in all engagement activities, often taking the initiative to spark discussion and bring energy to the team. His outgoing personality and thoughtful contributions help create a welcoming environment where others feel comfortable sharing and participating.
Benjamin’s reliability, positivity, and commitment make him a wonderful role model for newer members. His presence strengthens the team, inspires confidence, and reflects the very best of what it means to be part of RET. We are grateful for the passion, leadership, and encouragement he brings each week, and for the way he continues to elevate our community through his example.
Month of July
-

Theepika Sandramugunthan
FEATURED MENTOR
As a dedicated mentor, Theepika has consistently gone above and beyond to support and uplift those around them. Whether helping a child with reading, planning events with the Youth Council, or keeping kids engaged at summer camps, she always shows up fully prepared, present, and with a heart full of kindness, patience, and a genuine smile. She has dedicated her efforts to creating spaces where others feel confident in their abilities and inspired to challenge themselves. Through her compassion, supportiveness, and open-hearted approach, Theepika has helped others grow, connect, and believe in themselves. Her work ethic, active involvement, and ability to make every person feel heard and valued make them an exceptional and inspiring role model within the community. We deeply appreciate Theepika for her remarkable contributions as a volunteer, and for the lasting impact she has on the people!
-

Griffin Dawson
FEATURED PROGRAM COORDINATOR
In his role at Learning Buddies Network, Griffin has thoroughly embodied the remarkable traits of collaboration, approachability, and professionalism. Deeply invested in the growth and well-being of those around him, he approaches every interaction with genuine care. His patience and compassion in huddles help create a safe and inclusive learning environment for mentors to build confidence in their skills, while his knowledge, nuanced strategies, and excellent reflective questions challenge mentors to improve and strive for greater performance. On top of providing thoughtful guidance, Griffin responds with keen sensitivity to the needs of both mentors and buddies, tailoring his support to match individual learning styles. His highly engaging and collaborative teaching style fosters a positive and productive space for everyone he works with. His commitment to mentorship
and his dedication to the success of his peers have made a significant impact on our programs. We look forward to seeing his continued contributions and leadership at Learning Buddies Network! -

Sandra Huang
FEATURED EXECUTIVE COORDINATOR
As a volunteer for our programs, Sandra has been incredibly reliable, always on top of everything that goes into running a busy program like Sunset as smoothly as she does. She provides deeply insightful feedback, strategies, and suggestions in session reports, and is highly attentive to the dynamics between mentors and their buddies. She has put effort into preparing for all sessions, and her calmness, professionalism, and warmth allow her to handle any challenges with ease. As a leader and role model, Sandra offers unwavering support and encouragement to those she works with, inspiring confidence and growth in others. Her reliability, dedication, and compassion have influenced her peers and strengthened our programs tremendously. We are incredibly thankful for and appreciative of the fantastic work she has done as a supportive, dependable, and dedicated volunteer!
-
-

Subin Mun
FEATURED VOLUNTEER TEAM MEMBER
As a dedicated Program Team Member, Subin consistently demonstrates her commitment and reliability by ensuring all her tasks are completed in a timely manner. Known for her positive, approachable, and supportive nature, she is a valued presence within the team. Always willing to go above and beyond, Subin actively contributes to the success of our programs and readily steps in to help wherever needed. In addition to her Program Team responsibilities, she has made significant contributions as an Executive Coordinator for numerous Indigenous programs, bringing kindness, helpfulness, and a proactive approach to every role she takes on. Her hard work and dedication make her an indispensable member of our organization, and we are grateful for her continued efforts and contributions.
Month of May
-

Harleen Buttar
FEATURED MENTOR
As a Mentor in LBN’s programs, Harleen has consistently gone above and beyond to provide help and guidance to everyone around her. She has dedicated her efforts to fostering an environment where her Buddies can feel confident in their abilities, and feel encouraged to challenge themselves. As a role model, she has helped her Buddy grow both academically and personally. At Learning Buddies Network, she has developed a unique mentorship style rooted in empowerment, supportiveness, patience, and encouragement. Altogether, her work ethic, active leadership, compassion, and ability to ensure that every mentee feels heard and valued, make her an exceptional and invaluable role model within the mentorship community. We appreciate Harleen for her remarkable contributions to our programs as a volunteer!
-

Saron Gebremariam
FEATURED PROGRAM COORDINATOR
In her role as Program Coordinator at one of LBN’s Hybrid Indigenous programs, Saron has thoroughly embodied the remarkable traits of diligence, kindness, empathy, positivity, and confidence. On top of managing her pod and contributing to sessions in a leadership capacity, Saron is also more than willing to take on new challenges to help support our programs if needed. For example, she takes the initiative to take on the role of Mentor when volunteers are missing or absent, ensuring that sessions can go as smoothly as possible for the entire pod. Her strong problem-solving and leadership and coordination skills has helped her promote to the role of Executive Coordinator. Her exceptional efforts have been inspiring to see here at Learning Buddies Network, and we look forward to see her continued contributions as an EC!
-

Sarah Lakhan
FEATURED EXECUTIVE COORDINATOR
As an Executive Coordinator for one of our pods, leading new Mentors and volunteers, Sarah’s warm energy and welcoming attitude have immediately put them at ease, ensuring their experiences are smooth as much as rewarding. She has put effort into doing everything she can as an EC to prepare for all sessions, and when any conflicts or issues arise, her calmness, composure, and professionalism has allowed for them to be handled quickly and properly. As a leader, Sarah provides unwavering support and advice to all her volunteers to help them succeed throughout the term. Her kindness, selflessness, and dedication and commitment has influenced her team and our programs tremendously and contributed to a positive and cultivating pod environment. We are incredibly thankful for and appreciative of the fantastic work she has done as a senior volunteer!
-
-
Nidhi Nayak
FEATURED VOLUNTEER TEAM MEMBER
As a Recruitment and Engagement Team Member for the organization, Nidhi has consistently demonstrated her commitment and dedication to excellence in her volunteer role through her proactivity as both a team player and a leader. As the only member of the team outside of everyone’s time zone, Nidhi is extremely flexible and adaptable, always open to attending late-night meetings with the team. During those meetings, Nidhi has exemplified the ideal RET Member, always engaged and talkative, sharing her ideas and viewpoints that help improve operations and guide the team’s growth. She has been commended by many of her coworkers. Nidhi’s hard-working attitude and consistency make her a commendable member of both the team and the Learning Buddies Network. We thank Nidhi for all her efforts and contribution!
Month of April
-

Yejoon Yim
FEATURED MENTOR
Incredibly dedicated, engaged, and motivated, Yejoon Yim demonstrates what it means to be an exemplary mentor at Learning Buddies Network. His adaptability, patience, compassion, and ability to understand how to best support buddy’s learning has led his coordinators to actively encourage new mentors to shadow him to learn how to run effective sessions. He ensures all of his sessions are engaging and his reports are thorough, helping support his buddy’s progress as much as possible. Yejoon exemplifies what an amazing mentor should be and is a true asset to the Learning Buddies Network.
-

Louis Huang
FEATURED PROGRAM COORDINATOR
Louis Huang has demonstrated unwavering dedication to the LBN program during his role as a Program Coordinator. By coordinating logistics with his Executive Coordinator and managing comprehensive report writing, Louis ensures that he is well prepared for each session and is ready to address any challenges promptly. He uses his leadership skills to foster collaboration and enrich community involvement, particularly by ensuring proactive and effective communication with mentors and actively engaging with mentors and buddies at the start of each session. We are greatly thankful for Louis and his exceptional work at the Learning Buddies Network.
-

Aamiya Sidhu
FEATURED EXECUTIVE COORDINATOR
As an Executive Coordinator, Aamiya Sidhu’s empathy and dedication, alongside her excellent problem-solving and leadership skills, have left a lasting impression on mentors and mentees alike. She inspires growth, demonstrates a deep commitment to fostering a supportive and empowering community, and leads with passion, which has allowed her to create meaningful connections and uplift those around her. Aamiya goes above and beyond, providing tailored guidance and resources, and adapting to the needs of the pod to empower her mentors and create a rewarding experience for them. Aamiya’s ability to make every mentor and mentee feel valued, heard, and supported is one of the reasons she is such a memorable member of the Learning Buddies Network.
-
-
Ines Bouvier
FEATURED VOLUNTEER TEAM MEMBER
As the Blogs Team lead, Ines Bouvier is incredibly detail-oriented, responsible, and empathetic. She takes the initiative to lead and support volunteers in the team to produce monthly blog articles for the Learning Buddies Network website, maintaining a consistently high standard for the quality of work produced by her and the team. Ines is responsible, communicative, and compassionate with her peers, creating a welcoming, supportive environment. We express our appreciation for all Ines’ efforts and contributions to the Learning Buddies Network!
Month of March
-

Mandi Ma
FEATURED MENTOR
Mandi Ma is a dedicated and enthusiastic Mentor who brings kindness and positivity to every session. Her warm and friendly nature helps create a supportive environment where her buddy feels encouraged to learn and grow. She actively participates in huddles, sharing her progress and insights, demonstrating her commitment to both her mentee’s success and her own development as a mentor. Mandi’s passion for teaching shines through in every interaction, making learning an engaging and enjoyable experience. Thank you, Mandi, for your dedication, kindness, and inspiring mentorship!
-

Benjamin Nazif
FEATURED PROGRAM COORDINATOR
As a Program Coordinator, Benjamin Nazif plays a vital role in supporting mentors as they help children develop their reading skills. His dedication, organization, and enthusiasm ensure that both mentors and students have the resources and guidance they need to succeed. Benjamin’s leadership creates a positive and supportive learning environment, empowering mentors to feel confident in their roles. His passion for education and commitment to making a meaningful impact on children’s literacy make him an invaluable part of the team. Thank you, Benjamin, for your hard work and dedication!
-

Yobsara Teklemariam
FEATURED EXECUTIVE COORDINATOR
As an EC, Yobsara Teklemariam is a dedicated and hardworking leader who plays a key role in supporting children’s education through the Learning Buddies Network. He is passionate about making learning engaging and accessible, especially in subjects like science and math. Beyond working with students, Yobsara also supports and guides Mentors, helping them grow in their roles. His positive and encouraging approach creates a space where both volunteers and students can thrive. With a strong commitment to mentorship and leadership, he continues to make a meaningful impact. Thank you, Yobsara, for your dedication and hard work!
-
-

Kristen Hardy
FEATURED VOLUNTEER TEAM MEMBER
Kristen Hardy is a dedicated and hardworking Program Coordinator and Program Team Member who continually goes the extra mile to support Learning Buddies Network. Her kindness and commitment create a welcoming and supportive environment for both mentors and students. Kristen’s strong work ethic and passion for making a difference shine through in everything she does, ensuring that the program runs smoothly and effectively. Her dedication and reliability make her an invaluable part of the team. Thank you, Kristen, for your hard work, kindness, and unwavering commitment!
Month of February
-

Victoria Tan
FEATURED MENTOR
Victoria Tan’s warm, kind, and approachable nature makes her an outstanding Mentor, creating an inviting and enjoyable learning space where her Buddy not only strengthens their reading skills but also develops a true appreciation for stories. She ensures each session is engaging by pausing to ask fun and thoughtful questions, helping her Buddy connect with the material on a deeper level. Beyond reading, she builds a strong rapport through her enthusiasm and genuine interest, reflecting Learning Buddies Network’s commitment to meaningful 1-1 mentoring. Her friendliness also extends to fellow volunteers, fostering a supportive and welcoming environment. Thank you, Victoria, for your dedication and encouragement!
-

Sarah Nazif
FEATURED PROGRAM COORDINATOR
As a Program Coordinator at LBN, Sarah Nazif has quickly become a valued team member, demonstrating dedication, open-mindedness, and compassion. She plays a key role in supporting mentors and fostering their growth through guidance and constructive feedback. Her strong coordination and leadership skills help create a positive and well-structured learning environment. Sarah’s ability to adapt and collaborate ensures that both mentors and students receive the support they need to succeed. Her commitment to the program and proactive approach make her an invaluable part of the team. Thank you, Sarah, for your hard work and dedication!
-
Joanna Lee
FEATURED EXECUTIVE COORDINATOR
As an Executive Coordinator, Joanna Lee is a dedicated and supportive leader who ensures her pod runs efficiently and smoothly. She actively offers guidance to Mentors, particularly those new to the role, while also assisting Program Coordinators by addressing their questions and helping them transition into leadership positions. Having personally experienced the challenges of stepping into new responsibilities, she is committed to helping her team navigate any difficulties with confidence. Her strong sense of organization and collaborative spirit create an environment where volunteers can learn, grow, and succeed. Thank you, Joanna, for your hard work and leadership!
-
-

Jinny Lim
FEATURED VOLUNTEER TEAM MEMBER
For nearly three years, Jinny Lim has been a dedicated and dependable Regional Officer, successfully leading her Recruitment & Engagement Team with kindness, passion, and responsibility. As a diligent leader, she leads by example, always looking out for her team members and ensuring a supportive and collaborative environment. Known for her empathy and consideration, Jinny’s leadership fosters strong connections within the team, making a meaningful impact on both volunteers and the organization. Her commitment and hard work continue to inspire those around her. Thank you, Jinny, for your dedication and leadership!
for the year of 2024