2021 - Team Members

  • Simone Chnarakis

    Head Photographer

    “To me, diversity is to not put aside race, gender, sex and etc, but to actually embrace those things that make us different and use it to come together, make magic and be one with one another.”

  • Dino Dang

    Head Videographer

    “We are all different.

    Some of us don't like the idea that why they war, but Unique is a way all humans are. Through understanding, empathy, and a willingness to accept each other, we embrace the harmony and happiness of our diversity. “

  • Alice Scheuerman

    BTS Videographer

    “When it comes to photography, I try to work with individuals of different races, cultures, genders, and more. Vancouver is a city where diversity is a huge part of the culture. Embracing different cultures and people has allowed me work with various people from different backgrounds. I think as a photographer, it is important to understand the different types of people and apply the right techniques to be able to express the true beauty of the world we live in.”

  • Irene Dinh

    BTS Photographer

    “Diversity to me is the balance of different cultures, races, sexes, religions, appearances, sexual orientations, disabilities and many more things. It’s the ability to be able to look at another person and realize they are different without prejudice.”

  • Sam Bailey

    BTS Photographer

    “Anyone of suitable character deserves to be treated with dignity regardless of class, education, political belief, religion, race, or colour. Although I don't tend to be vocal about this subject, I do my best to show how I feel through both my actions and with my photography. It can be a facile task to express one's stance on the topic of diversity through speak or social media, however, I believe the true telling of someone's heart is expressed through their interaction with others, especially those who are very different from themselves."

  • Vania Ramirez Santos

    Project Assistant

    “Diversity to me means opening your minds and hearts to all that humanity has to offer without being clouded by stereotypes set in the past. Embracing the benefits and beauty that our cultural differences bring together, enriches our communities and aids in our growth as a healthy society.“

  • Claire Foly

    Stylist & Model

    “Living in Vancouver has given me exposure to various cultures, genders and other diverse experiences of life. With every encounter and interaction, I have realized that the foundational beauty of being human is instilled within each and every one of us. I believe that being able to appreciate this phenomenon is a privilege. Embracing each other’s differences enables us to create a society where equity is above all.”

  • Han Byul Seo

    Model, Web Designer

    “We are all different in our own way. We should not judge a person’s worth based on skin colour, nationality, or gender, etc. No discrimination is acceptable. We should embrace our differences and understand diversity is what makes us human.”

  • Samson Xai

    Model

    “I am fortunate that I myself haven’t been too affected by the brutality of racism. I had issues of growing up being Asian in a community with so few of us and I had some difficulty feeling isolated. But overall, I believe it’s an important issue. We need to have more conversations so we are able to combat this negativity better.”

  • Kirsten Steenblock

    Model

    “For me diversity means a creation and celebration of love. Bringing together people from different ethnicities, sexual orientation, cultures, and backgrounds to celebrate learn from each other. It’s about making the world a more inclusive place, spreading love from all aspects of life.”

  • Othniel Spence

    Model

    “I would say my experience with racism and hate crimes have definitely shaped my thinking when pondering on past traumas. That said, I’ve used these experiences to reveal to those around me that racist stereotypes and acts still happen today and that these things affect us greatly. However, our persistence and resilience shows our greatness.”

  • Madison Nguyen

    Model

    “I feel very blessed to be able to have the opportunity to come together and embrace diversity. Through this project, the importance of various cultures appreciating one another became more apparent to me. Putting aside our differences to come together to interact, share ideas and collaborate with one another is what ultimately made this project so amazing. I hope this encourages others to welcome the wonders of diversity.”

  • Jamesley Jerome

    Model

    “To me, diversity means a lot of different things. It is being able to recognize that every life, no matter how much we differ has value and is a precious asset in our society. Being able to compromise and learn to appreciate different cultures benefits everyone. It creates open mindedness and expands our viewpoints to be able to think with various perspectives in consideration.”

2021 - Brands

  • Livin Lavish Boutique

    Livin Lavish Boutique is a Vancouver-based black-owned brand that aims to create quality products at an affordable price. The majority of their items are made from either stainless steel or 925 sterling silver base metal. Their pieces are then plated in 18k gold. Livin Lavish Boutique is a brand that focuses on inclusivity and diversity and aims to uplift and bring confidence to whoever wears their pieces. By incorporating current trends and their own designs, Livin Lavish Boutique is able to curate one-of-a-kind bold statement pieces to last a lifetime.

  • Alx Brand

    ALX was created by Alex Mah to embrace self-love and individuality while experimenting with vintage and streetwear styles. Being able to custom and transform a concept into unique pieces that speaks to your character is something that ALX strives to achieve.

  • God Made A

    “Diversity provides a seat at the table for every individual and truly enriches the group’s collective experience. The conversations shared here allow us to learn from people who have gone through very different walks of life. A place that welcomes diversity is a place that challenges me and encourages me to progress in my path of self-growth.”

    - Adyasha, Founder of God.Made.A