Anika Kini
Art Instructor and Junior Award Scheme for Students (JASS) -Regional Leader
Anika's Bio
I am a Grade 11 International Baccalaureate student and co-founder of The New Horizons Foundation My journey in community service began at the age of 10, and since then, I have led numerous initiatives at a local and global scale. My work is focused on addressing issues effecting diverse communities, from creating global education opportunities for underprivileged children to supporting single moms and shelters for unhoused in the local community.
In addition to my community service, I am deeply involved in extracurricular activities that reflect my culture and values. As a Bharatanatyam dancer, I celebrate my cultural heritage through this classical Indian dance form. I am an active member of the Political, Economy and the Podcast Club at school, which has enhanced my critical thinking, communication, and teamwork. As an instructor at the EJS School of Fine Arts I teach art to kids aged 5 to 13 building their creativity and confidence. As a senior member of Youth Leadership Society of British Columbia, I also lead leadership and public speaking workshops and initiatives through the Junior Award Scheme for Students (JASS) program, inspiring young learners to realize their potential.
Balancing my academic interests, artistic passions, and community work has instilled in me exceptional time management, adaptability, and resilience.
About my Service Initiatives
Driven by a deep passion for service and a commitment to uplifting communities, I have dedicated the past six years to creating meaningful change through youth-led initiatives. As the co-founder of The New Horizons Foundation, I have spearheaded projects tackling food insecurity, education access, and animal welfare, demonstrating that service knows no boundaries.
My journey in community service began with the Lytton, BC wildfire relief effort in 2021, where I mobilized resources to support displaced animals. Partnering with the SPCA, I helped coordinate the collection and distribution of food and essential supplies, ensuring their care during a time of crisis. This experience ignited my drive to address urgent community needs and reinforced my belief in the power of collective action.
Most recently, I launched the Cereal Box Project to combat food insecurity among schoolchildren. Inspired by classmates who arrived at school without breakfast, I collaborated with students, local businesses, and grants to collect and distribute over 1,000 cereal boxes and breakfast items to children in need. Beyond providing essential meals, this initiative empowered my peers to take action and become advocates for change.
Extending my impact beyond local communities, I founded a global e-learning initiative to provide educational resources and mentorship to underprivileged students in rural India. Witnessing the barriers they faced reinforced my belief that education is a fundamental right that should not be dictated by geography.
My commitment to service also extends to supporting vulnerable populations closer to home. Working with shelters for the unhoused in Surrey has deepened my understanding of systemic issues affecting marginalized communities, strengthening my resolve to create sustainable solutions.
Whether addressing food insecurity, advocating for education, or responding to crises, I am driven by the belief that youth have the power to lead change. Through The New Horizons Foundation and every initiative I undertake, I strive to inspire others to take action and build a more equitable future.
