Jenna Dong
I'm a passionate youth leader dedicated to creating meaningful change through community engagement and social innovation. As the co-founder of Camp Catalyst, I strive to empower youth to explore sustainability, leadership, and personal growth in a supportive and creative environment. Making a lasting impact and inspiring others is deeply important to me, especially in areas such as mental health, homelessness, gender equality, and sustainability. Beyond Camp Catalyst, I'm an active leader with GoodGuys BC and the former co-chair of the Vancouver School Board Sustainability Connection. These experiences have shaped my commitment to equity, collaboration, and impact. I thrive in spaces where I can listen, learn, and lead with empathy. This fall, I’ll be pursuing studies in science at UBC, where I aim to continue combining leadership, advocacy, and innovation in all that I do.
Camp Catalyst
Camp Catalyst is a youth-led initiative designed to empower young girls ages 7-12 through immersive workshops on sustainability, leadership, and personal growth. By creating a supportive and inspiring environment, Camp Catalyst encourages participants to explore their passions in STEM fields, build confidence, and take action in their communities. Through interactive activities, speaker panels, and team challenges, the camp cultivates change-makers ready to lead with empathy, innovation, and impact.
About this Project
Communities Served
My project will involve and/or impact the following communities:
United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
When it comes to community impact projects, the UN has created 17 Sustainable Development Goals. These are the Sustainable Development Goals associated with my project.
How the project works
Camp Catalyst is a three-day camp featuring interactive workshops, speaker panels, and team-building activities. Held in winter break, the camp guides elementary school students through themes of leadership, sustainability, and self-growth, equipping them with tools to create positive change in their schools and communities.
Project Impact
Camp Catalyst empowers youth to become confident, compassionate leaders through hands-on learning and meaningful connections. Participants leave with a stronger sense of purpose, practical leadership skills, and a supportive network of changemakers. The camp inspires long-term community engagement, encouraging youth to take initiative and lead projects that promote sustainability, equity, and well-being.
Project Mission
The mission of Camp Catalyst is to create a safe, inclusive space where young girls can explore leadership and STEM fields that often feel inaccessible. Rooted in a passion for health and equity, the project aims to break down gender barriers and empower participants to see themselves as future leaders. By prioritizing inclusive representation and belonging, Camp Catalyst hopes to foster confidence, curiosity, and a lasting commitment to social impact among its participants.
Project Team
A passionate, youth-led team of girls ages 18-21, committed to equity, empowerment, and creating meaningful community impact.
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