Big Sisters Launches New Program to Expand Access to Post-Secondary Education
Big Sisters of BC Lower Mainland (Big Sisters) is launching Pumped for Post-Secondary (PFPS), a group-based program designed to help high school students in Grades 9-12 explore and prepare for post-secondary pathways. Developed by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Toronto, PFPS has demonstrated success in supporting young people to build confidence, pursue further education and develop early job-readiness skills.
Building on the success of Big Sisters’ Bright Futures Education Fund, which provides financial support and wraparound services to mentees pursuing post-secondary education, PFPS expands opportunities for youth to explore post-secondary life earlier and develop the skills, awareness, and connections for future success.
In partnership with Langara College (snəw̓eyəɬ leləm̓), Big Sisters will deliver PFPS in British Columbia for the first time. The program strengthens Big Sisters’ commitment to supporting youth through mentorship and long-term goal development.
“For more than 65 years, Big Sisters has been a leader in mentoring girls and gender-diverse youth ages 7–17. We’re excited to expand our impact so even more young people can realize their potential through educational planning, mentorship, and financial support,” said Chantelle Krish, CEO, Big Sisters of BC Lower Mainland.
The program will pair high school students (mentees) with current Langara College student mentors through weekly sessions that introduce them to post-secondary environments, supports and learning experiences.
Running from January 2026 to March 2026 on the Langara College campus, the 11-session pilot program will combine hands-on workshops, skill-building activities, and guided mentorship. Participants will have the opportunities to explore the campus, engage in interactive learning sessions, and gain exposure to academic and career resources that are often less accessible to first-generation students.
PFPS is designed to strengthen mentees’ readiness for post-secondary education while offering mentors meaningful leadership and facilitation experience.
Quotes
“PFPS gives students a real opportunity to explore post-secondary life, gain confidence, and develop skills that will support them long after high school. We are excited to connect students with mentors who can guide them through this critical stage and help them make informed choices for their future.”
— Nasrin Ali, Manager of Post-Secondary Program, Big Sisters of BC Lower Mainland
“We are proud to partner with Big Sisters to launch Pumped for Post-Secondary here at Langara. When these young women step onto our campus, they experience the close-knit community and supportive pathways that define who we are. They meet mentors who cheer them on, share their stories and help them see what is possible. This partnership reflects our commitment to access and equity, and to creating meaningful opportunities for future learners across British Columbia.”
— Dr. Debbie Schachter, Associate Vice-President, Students Langara College
This initiative is proudly supported by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Toronto, with generous support from ScotiaRISE.
Associated Links
For media inquiries, please contact Yasmin Soliman, Manager of Marketing and Communications at Big Sisters, at ysoliman@bigsisters.bc.ca or 604-812-5328.