Adelyn Sophie Newman-Ting

Adelyn Newman-Ting is a thoughtful and dynamic 13-year-old from Victoria, British Columbia. She lives with her parents and her beloved dog, Oscar. Her traditional name, Kesugilakw, means “leader born to be,” and her Chinese name is Ting Li-Wen—both reflecting the rich cultural heritage that shapes who she is. On her mother’s side, Addy is Chinese from Taiwan, and on her father’s side she is Kwakwaka’wakw and Coast Salish, with English, Irish, and Scottish ancestry.

Addy has a wide range of interests and talents. She is an enthusiastic and skilled competitive jump roper (yes, it’s a sport!), a dedicated field hockey player, and a passionate artist. She strongly believes that young people’s voices matter and that youth should be empowered to shape a better, more just and sustainable world.

Addy has already made her voice heard on powerful platforms. She recently delivered a TEDx talk alongside her father, artist and activist Carey Newman, and spoke at an educational event hosted by the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation. As a UNESCO child author, she wrote Finding the Language, a moving story rooted in identity, culture, and healing. She also completed her first year on the Youth Advisory Council for Children First Canada, continuing to advocate for the rights and well-being of children across the country.

With courage, clarity, and creativity, Addy is already a leader in action, living up to the name she carries with pride.