Teacher by training, builder by nature, and global advocate for youth and education, Rochelle Prasad is redefining how learning connects to real-world change.

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Over the past decade, she has led initiatives that turn education into systems transformation - from founding the SPARK Foundation, a youth-led nonprofit that has empowered more than 500,000 learners worldwide, to building schools in Kenya and Ecuador, to advising governments and multilateral institutions on education policy and youth engagement.

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Rochelle has taught at UC Berkeley and University Canada West, training over 300 educators and designing postsecondary curricula in political science, social justice, and civic engagement. Today, she advises the Governments of Canada and Fiji on global education and youth policy within the United Nations system.

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Her work bridges education, innovation, and policy with a focus on amplifying youth voice, advancing equity, and creating sustainable change across generations.

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A three-time national and two-time international honouree, Rochelle’s recognitions include the Governor General’s Award in Commemoration of the Persons Case (2025), Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women (RBC, 2025), the UN Young Leader of the Year (WFUNA, 2024), and The Diana Award (2021). She has been recognized by the Royal Family, BBC News, and global institutions for her leadership and impact.

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At the heart of her work is a simple belief: education is the most powerful tool for change - and every young person deserves the chance to use it to build a better world.