Attention: You are using an outdated browser, device or you do not have the latest version of JavaScript downloaded and so this website may not work as expected. Please download the latest software or switch device to avoid further issues.
| 15 Sep 2026 | |
| Community News |
Gurpreet Kaur Bains has dedicated 25 years to supporting students, educators, and communities, and her impact is now being recognized nationally. Bains has been named one of the 2026 Canada's Most Powerful Women: Top 100 Award Winners by the Women's Executive Network (WXN).
The L.A. Matheson Secondary School teacher was selected from applicants across Canada and recognized in the Professionals category for her mentorship, advocacy, and commitment to student success. The awards celebrate women whose leadership, innovation, and contributions are creating meaningful change in organizations, industries, and communities across the country.
Throughout her career, Bains has remained focused on helping others thrive by supporting students facing barriers, mentoring educators, advocating for equity, and building strong community partnerships.
As the school's Languages Department Head, she has mentored numerous new teachers and supported many students who have received the Dhahan Youth Awards, an annual Punjabi-language creative writing competition. As a Science teacher and School Associate, she has also helped mentor and train teacher candidates from Simon Fraser University and other post-secondary institutions.
Bains has led student fundraising efforts for the Guru Nanak Diversity Village long-term care facility, helping students raise more than $18,000 to date. She has also helped raise more than $36,000 for the BC Children's Hospital Foundation through Digging the Roots, a multicultural celebration organized in collaboration with colleagues and the broader school community.
She is also the co facilitator for the Next 100 Years Mentorship Program, a Surrey Schools Safe Schools initiative delivered in partnership with the SPS and City of Surrey . The program helps Grade 6 and 7 students transition to secondary school through peer mentorship, leadership development, and activities focused on identity, culture, diversity, and community engagement, while fostering positive relationships and a strong sense of belonging.
“I took the opportunity to reflect on the impact of my work and the collective achievements that have been possible through collaboration with students, colleagues, and community partners,” said Bains. “I am deeply grateful to the mentors and leaders who believed in me and supported my growth.”
Bains emphasized that being named one of Canada's Most Powerful Women is not about position, status, or authority, but about creating positive change and helping others succeed.
“This recognition reflects the importance of empathy, advocacy, inclusion, and service-centered leadership,” she said. “Throughout my career, I have believed that empowering others, especially those whose voices are not always heard, creates a lasting impact in our schools and communities.”
She added that the recognition is especially meaningful because it reflects the achievements of the students, educators, and communities she has had the privilege of working alongside.
“Their determination, courage, and achievements have inspired me throughout my career and continue to inspire me every day.”
As part of this honour, Bains will attend the WXN Leadership Summit and Awards Gala in Toronto, where she will connect with leaders from across Canada, exchange ideas, and gain insights from those creating positive change in their respective fields.
Bains expressed heartfelt gratitude to her family, friends, students, colleagues, mentors, and community partners, noting that the award reflects the collective impact of everyone who has been part of her journey.
“I am truly honoured and grateful for this recognition. It is inspiring to be part of a community that celebrates leadership, impact, and the advancement of women.”
Reflecting on the recognition, Bains said the award belongs not only to her, but also to the many students, educators, families, and community members who have contributed to her journey. She hopes the recognition will inspire others to lead with compassion, serve their communities, and create opportunities for future generations.
To learn more about Gurpreet Kaur Bains, follow her on LinkedIn, where she shares insights on education, leadership, mentorship, community engagement, and advocacy.
