Fighting discrimination

Two VCH staff members are being nationally recognized for their work with LGBT2Q+ youth in B.C.

Natasha Wolfe, a community health liaison from the Transgender Health Information Program and Kyle Shaughnessy, project manager for CALL Out!, are being given Canada ’s Youth Role Model of the Year–Lifetime Achievement by Jer’s Vision: Canada’s Youth Diversity Initiative, an organization that supports and encourages the work of youth to address discrimination in their schools and communities.

Natasha Wolfe

Natasha was nominated by the Vancouver School Board for the work she did with updating their sexual orientation and gender identities policy, specifically the amendments made to the policy that support trans* students in expressing their gender identities. The policy includes respecting students’ pronouns and providing access to gender-neutral washrooms.

“It’s especially exciting because the nomination came originally from the school board and then was decided by a committee of youth from across the country,” she says. “That’s pretty special.”

Kyle has been involved with trans* communities since 2000, holding workshops around the province, working with parents, educators, service providers and faith-based organizations to create safer environments for LGBT2Q+ youth.

Kyle Shaughnessy

“I’m 34 so to get a lifetime achievement award was kind of surprising,” he says laughing. “It’s exciting and validating and it’s really nice to know that the work I’ve been a part of has been impactful, especially for the LGBT2Q+ youth themselves.”

Lorraine Grieves, manager of Youth Addictions and Prevention Services says she is very proud of her two team members.

“I am thrilled that both Kyle and Tash are being recognized with these awards,” Lorraine says. “Kyle has worked at VCH for a number of years now in various capacities and has made lasting contributions to various youth communities, both through his work here and through other projects he has been involved with. And Tash brings with her an incredible ability to get many things done in a short amount of time with grace and enthusiasm. Her boundless energy for the work shows in everything she does and her belief in the strengths and abilities of young people help her forge strong connections with those she works with. She has undoubtedly made a lasting difference in the lives of many youth.”

“I am very proud to have these outstanding leaders be a part of my team here at VCH,” Lorraine adds.