Hello everyone! My name is Ashley and I am an IB student at White Oaks Secondary School. I joined 1UP because I am drawn to the field of architecture and how it shapes art, science, and human experience. As a content strategist, I hope to contribute both my ideas and media/communication skills to increase youth involvement in underrepresented fields. In my free time, I like to play badminton, paint, and listen to jazz!

Emily Kantardzic is the Content Strategist at 1UP Toronto, where she helps shape youth-driven narratives about city building and community empowerment. As a high school student passionate about journalism, sustainability, and social justice, Emily brings a unique teen perspective to her work—making content that’s bold, relevant, and real. Whether she’s planning campaigns, sharing stories from student leaders, or brainstorming the next big idea, Emily is focused on giving youth a stronger voice in shaping Toronto’s future.

Hello! My name is Matthew and I am a student at St. Robert CHS, and I enjoy reading and drawing. I also enjoy studying the ways people interact with their community and physical environment. I am very interested in seeing this through by learning about the decision making processes in making communities more welcoming with 1UP!

I’m Dawn, Grade 10 at Abbey Park, Oakville 🙂 I’ve always been passionate about the environment, and I have come to realize the importance of sustainable city design. Nothing matters more to me than making our community a better place, and I’m confident we can work towards this together. I hope to bring my passion to our 1UP Creatives 2024-2025 Team as a content strategist in creating a meaningful collective impact!

Hi! I am Jayden Pan, a creative Grade 12 student currently attending Father Michael McGivney Catholic Academy in Markham. I have a strong passion for both art and writing, and recently embarked on an exciting journey as a Senior Graphic Designer with the 1UP Creatives team, crafting engaging content for various platforms to bring ideas to life. Outside of academics, I find joy in expressing myself in art, with a particular fondness for watercolor painting.

Hi, I’m Jonathan! I’m a bilingual (English and French) high school student. As a Graphic Designer, I will be helping out the 1UP team with creating media content and various graphic design projects. As a volunteer with various transit advocacy groups, I hold a strong passion for urban design and city-building. I am very excited to work with 1UP on their initiatives and events!

Emily is a high school student with a strong interest in design and visual communication. She is particularly drawn to how thoughtful design can support storytelling, foster community engagement, and enhance accessibility. In her free time, she enjoys reading, spending time with friends, and exploring creative ideas through sketching and doodling.

Salma is a current high school student who has always been passionate about innovation and problem-solving within her communities. As an artist by nature, Salma loves using her creative skills to come up with ideas for spaces that are both accessible and visually appealing. As part of her school’s 1UP chapter, Salma has contributed to designing prototypes that will make her school a better place with both environmental and social factors kept in mind. Salma enjoys painting, baking, and spending time with family and friends.

Hi, I’m Joshika Thumpera, a Grade 10 student at Sinclair Secondary School and a Graphic Designer at 1UP. I joined 1UP to grow my design skills and contribute to projects that make a difference in our communities. I’m excited to help create media content and support youth-driven ideas for better city planning!

Hello! My name is Natalie and I’m a Grade 12 student at Agincourt C.I.  I enjoy playing badminton, swimming, frisbee, and volleyball. I am also involved in marching band and drill team for air cadets.  I joined 1UP because I enjoyed the environment and positive experiences I had during the 1UP conference in March. I am so appreciative of this opportunity to learn more about architecture, design and urban planning!

Hi, I’m Lucas, and I am a student at Milliken Mills High School. I joined the 1UP creatives team because I am interested in urban planning and would love to share 1UP’s mission with other youth. As a team member, I hope to develop my collaborative and creative skills. In my free time, I like spending time outdoors and working with technology.

Hello! My name is Ellen, a Grade 11 student attending Iroquois Ridge High School in Oakville. I enjoy editing, photography, cinematography and practicing all forms of visual arts. I look forward to working alongside the 1UP Creatives Team as a Photo and Video Editor, and meeting passionate students willing to create meaningful change.

Hi, I’m Crystal
I’m a Photo and Video Editor at 1UP where I combine creative storytelling with thoughtful design to produce engaging visual content. My passion for design goes beyond the screen. I’m also deeply inspired by architecture and civil engineering. I’m fascinated by how structure and aesthetics work together, whether it’s in a frame or a city skyline. At 1UP, I love bringing ideas to life through visuals that are not only eye-catching but built with purpose.

I’m Suhana, a Grade 11 student at Abbey Park in Oakville 🙂 I’m obsessed with all things art, especially film. Whether I’m editing a short film, curating visual content, or capturing moments through photography, I’m always thinking about the story being told and how to make the viewer feel something. As a Photo/Video Editor on this year’s 1UP Creatives Team, I’m excited to bring my love for visual storytelling into conversations about urban design and community. I believe that creative media has the power to make complex ideas accessible, and I can’t wait to help inspire others to see their cities in bold, new ways.

Hello! I’m Melanie Li, a Grade 11 student at Iroquois Ridge High School. In my free time, I like skiing and doing arts and crafts with various mediums. I’m grateful for this chance to expand my knowledge of architecture and design. I look forward to helping create media that supports youth-led initiatives to improve our cities!