Meet the 2026 Co-operators Young Leaders
The Co-operators Young Leaders Award celebrates the next generation of innovators. These talented, passionate and innovative young leaders from across Canada will participate in a yearlong leadership academy.
Hadiza Bello
Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Co-operatives, NL
Hadiza is an emerging co-operative leader based in Newfoundland and Labrador, working with the Newfoundland and Labrador Federation of Co-operatives on the Co-operative Incubator Program. With a background in arts and community organizing, she is drawn to co-ops for their values of equity, solidarity and collective care.
Jessie Bowers
Nova Scotia Co-operative Council, NS
Jessie is the Director of Youth Programs at the Nova Scotia Co-operative Council, leading provincial initiatives that connect youth to employment, mentorship. and skills training. Passionate about empowering youth and creating opportunities that drive meaningful impact, Jessie brings energy, collaboration and a people-first approach.
Sydney Giesbrecht
The Youth Excellence Society, BC
Sydney is the Program Director at The Youth Excellence Society, a BC-based youth leadership non-profit rooted in the co-operative movement and values. She leads transformative programs for teens that build confidence, connection and leadership. Sydney is passionate about inclusion and creating spaces where young people feel seen and supported.
William Grenier
CoopérAction Climatique, IICADD and CQCM, QC
William has distinguished himself through his work with CoopérAction Climatique, IICADD and CQCM. He is active in education, research and strategic positioning for co-operatives. William is a warm-hearted dreamer who knows how to forge key partnerships in his community to build a better world.
Fahima Karim
Alterna Savings, ON
Fahima’s path into the co-operative sector began in financial education for underserved youth. At Alterna Savings, she supports non-profits and co-operatives navigate complex financial realities and advocates for their needs in the system. She believes finance should serve communities. In high school she was voted most likely to save the world, something she’s proud to live out in the co-op space.
Shreya Kirolikar
Bread and Roses Co-op Homes, ON
Shreya is the sole employee of Bread and Roses Co-op Homes. She oversees daily operations, maintenance, finances, vendor oversight, governance support and legal compliance. An advocate of affordable housing, she’s passionate about improving outcomes for marginalized folks. Outside of her role, she also volunteers for local non-profits.
Kate Manvelova
Arctic Co-ops, MB
Kate is an Associate Manager at Arctic Co-ops, where she turns complex processes into smarter, more efficient systems. She has led automation initiatives that increased revenue, saved time and costs, and improved member experience. Driven by co-operative principles and a deep concern for community, she finds purpose in creating impact.
Rebecca McKnight
Business Not as Usual, AB
Rebecca is a marketing professional bringing fresh energy to Canada’s co-operative sector. She co-created Business Not as Usual, a national campaign engaging young Canadians with co-ops, reaching more than 100,000 people and hosting virtual events with over 700 participants nationwide. Named ACCA’s Inspiring Young Co-operator, she’s driven by building authentic brands, community and connection.
Abrar Sarwari
Tetlit Co-op, NT
Abrar is an Assistant Manager at a Co-op grocery store in Fort McPherson, NT. He has nine years of retail experience, including leadership in northern communities. Known for driving performance and leading teams in remote markets, he is passionate about growth, community impact and building resilient, high-performing teams.
Jessica Scott
Alterna Savings, ON
Jessica is a dedicated community impact and microfinance professional at Alterna Savings, where she serves as a Credit Officer for the Community Microfinance Program. In this role, she supports underserved entrepreneurs and organizations by providing access to capital and affordable financial solutions, helping them achieve sustainable growth and long‑term success.
Djihoui Smith Gnepa
Cooperative Research Youth Committee (ICA, CCR), QC
Djihoui is a PhD candidate at the University of Sherbrooke, a student analyst at the Institut de la statistique du Québec and a member of the Cooperative Research Youth Committee (ICA CCR). His research focuses on the theoretical foundations and macroeconomic analysis of the co-operative mission. He has worked with UNICEF and UNDP. Curious and committed, he values social impact and cultural diversity.
Hannah Yazbek
York University student, ON
Hannah is a social economy advocate and Business and Society student at York University who researched co-operatives globally. Growing up in the labour movement and completing a union placement has shaped her passion for democratic governance and community impact. As an Alterna Savings Scholarship recipient, she eagerly promoted the social economy on her campus.