Behind every thriving community are the women whose passion, dedication and strength create lasting change. On International Women's Day and every day, we honour the incredible impact women have in shaping our world.
In Richmond, these women are leading the charge, inspiring change in every corner of the community. We’re shining a spotlight on some of the city's most inspiring leaders—women who are breaking barriers, shaping industries and empowering those around them. From fostering inclusivity to protecting our planet, their work is a testament to the power of purpose-driven leadership. Their stories remind us that when women rise, entire communities flourish.
Parm Grewal
Parm Grewal, executive director of Richmond Multicultural Community Services (RMCS), is dedicated to creating an inclusive and welcoming community for newcomers in Richmond. Leading a team of 20 staff who collectively speak over 15 languages, she ensures that RMCS delivers essential support in settlement, education and community inclusion for immigrant and refugee communities.
As the child and grandchild of immigrants, Grewal deeply understands the challenges faced by newcomers, from language barriers to navigating unfamiliar systems. Her leadership at RMCS is focused on breaking down systemic obstacles through initiatives like the Inclusive Communities Program, which fosters a sense of belonging and inclusion. She finds the most rewarding part of her work is seeing clients thrive—whether through improving their English, building meaningful social connections or securing employment.
Grewal’s leadership not only advances RMCS’s mission but also highlights the vital role of women in business. Through her vision and dedication, she is driving change, fostering empowerment and strengthening community connections, ensuring Richmond remains a place where diversity is valued and everyone has the opportunity to succeed.
Dive deeper into Parm’s work with Richmond Multicultural Community Services at www.rmcs.bc.ca.
Dr. Michele Nielsen
Dr. Michele Nielsen isn’t just changing smiles in Richmond—she’s changing the way we think about dental care and community involvement. As the owner of Steveston Smiles, she offers innovative dental care, including the Solea dental laser, which makes treatments more comfortable and often eliminates the need for anesthesia. Beyond her practice, Dr. Nielsen actively engages with the community, organizing initiatives like the Brush2Win contest with local schools and hosting Tooth Talks for preschoolers during Dental Health Month in April. She also contributes her skills as a forensic odontologist with the FORT-BC Society, providing closure to families with missing loved ones. A devoted wife and mother, Dr. Nielsen’s blend of professional excellence and community involvement makes her a standout leader in Richmond.
To learn more about Dr. Nielsen and her work, visit stevestonsmiles.com.
Dr. Jenny Chan
Dr. Jenny Chan is a trailblazer in education, an unstoppable force who shapes the future of Richmond through her unwavering commitment to empowering young minds. As the founder of Dr. Jenny Chan School for Education, she has spent over a decade fostering an inclusive and innovative learning environment where students—especially young women—are encouraged to lead, create and challenge the status quo. Her vision is clear: to nurture confident, capable leaders who drive meaningful change in their communities and beyond.
Through transformative initiatives like the Young Achiever Business Olympiad and the Social Enterprise Program, Dr. Chan equips students with the critical skills needed to tackle real-world challenges. A decorated academic and award-winning educator, Chan’s passion for mentorship and leadership development extends far beyond the classroom, inspiring the next generation of thinkers, doers and game-changers.
To learn more about Dr. Chan and her work, visit drjennychan.com or follow the Dr. Jenny Chan School for Education on Facebook at facebook.com/DrJennyChanSchoolforEducation.
Lynda Terborg
With over 35 years of experience, Lynda Terborg has built a reputation as a trusted real estate expert, seamlessly guiding families through life’s biggest transitions. Beyond her success in real estate, she dedicated years to making her community better, serving as a trustee for the Richmond Hospital Foundation, founding president of the Richmond District Parents Association and director for multiple local organizations.
Her commitment to giving back is woven into everything she does, whether she’s supporting families through major life changes or advocating for stronger community resources. Partnering with her son, Macey, she brings a balanced approach—combining strategic market expertise with a compassionate, solutions-driven mindset. With a deep well of experience and a heart for helping others, Lynda continues to make a lasting impact—both in her industry and in the community she serves.
To learn more about Lynda and her work, visit terborghomes.com.
Chloe Dubois
Chloé Dubois isn’t just fighting plastic pollution—she’s transforming the way the world approaches it. As the executive director and co-founder of The Ocean Legacy Foundation, she has spearheaded groundbreaking initiatives that blend education, policy and hands-on restoration to tackle ocean waste at its source. Under her leadership, the foundation’s Emergency Management System has provided sustainable waste management solutions to communities in crisis, helping to restore vital ecosystems and protect marine life.
Her work has influenced global policies, collaborated with industry leaders and empowered citizens to take action, making a lasting impact far beyond Richmond. "Chloé Dubois is a visionary environmental leader whose relentless commitment to cleaner oceans and healthier communities is transforming the way the world approaches plastic pollution," says Parm Bains, member of Parliament for Richmond East. "Her innovative blend of education, policy and hands-on restoration through The Ocean Legacy Foundation in the Steveston harbour is making a lasting impact on global policies and local communities like Richmond."
Discover more about Chloé and the transformative work of the Ocean Legacy Foundation by visiting oceanlegacy.ca.
