Co-Founder│Board of Directors

Lev, an entrepreneur with roots in the former Soviet Union and Israel, brings a wealth of cultural and professional experience to YEY, the youth organization he co-founded with Matthew Klapwijk. Driven by a passion for empowering young people, Lev is dedicated to helping teens lift each other up, discover their potential, and lead with integrity, diversity, and collaboration. Through youth-led programs at YEY, he’s proud to see teens grow into confident leaders who make a positive impact on their communities.

Co-Founder│Board of Directors

Matthew is an entrepreneur and philanthropist.  Growing up shy, introverted and struggling with self-confidence as a teen he decided to go on a never ending journey of self discovery.  He is driven to empower others so that they feel their dreams are alive by giving them courage and support to live an extraordinary life.

Executive Director│Board of Directors

Brittany is a proud mom of two girls, dedicated to raising them to be strong leaders. With a background in health and safety, she also runs a wedding planning business, blending her passion for organization and creativity. A "crunchy mom" at heart, she believes in natural solutions, making everything from scratch and trusting that nature has the answers for a healthy life.

Board of Directors

With 25+ years in corporate, non-profit, and independent roles, Adrienne is a seasoned leadership and relationship coach, consultant, and teacher. Previously, she led training and development, HR support, and onboarding initiatives as Director of Training. Now, she teaches Leadership and Communication at Vancouver Community College and offers coaching independently.

Board of Directors

Emerson, a TEDx speaker and UBC student specializing in genetics and neuroscience, is passionate about fostering resilience and connection. Since joining YEY in 2020, she has grown from a volunteer to the first youth board member, deepening her belief in the program’s transformative impact. Beyond academics, Emerson creates content for @ubcstudentlife, mentors youth in high-risk areas, and supports social initiatives like CUBS, a nonprofit addressing poverty in Vancouver. A UBC Presidential Scholar, valedictorian, and former tennis coach, she exemplifies leadership, education, and community empowerment, driven by a passion for meaningful change.

Global Community Liaison│Board of Directors

Rebekah is an Activist & Philanthropist dedicated to making a positive impact on the world. With a deep passion for personal development, she believes that true peace and happiness come from self-awareness, growth, and helping others. In her spare time, she focuses on empowering individuals through financial literacy and personal development programs. She is committed to sharing her knowledge to help others unlock their potential and cultivate positivity and success in their lives. Dedicated to excellence, she strives to inspire greatness in all areas of life, reminding others that the most powerful tool in the world is your mind.

Board of Directors

For several years, Thamali has been a youth facilitator with YEY, where she has had the privilege of meeting incredible people and developing valuable skills in public speaking and personal growth. This experience has been immensely rewarding, and she has enjoyed every minute of it. Thamali is also a third-year student studying Criminology and Psychology and has been passionate and involved in mental health advocacy since high school. In her spare time, she is likely doing a puzzle, learning about the stars and planets, or expressing her creativity through drawing and painting.