Step Up

Anti-Racist Association

Is a youth-led organization aimed to take action against racial injustices within our community and around the world.

Educate.

We educate others to spread awareness on racial justice issues concerning our society.

Engage.

We want to be an inclusive space for learning, growing and working with diverse members of our community.

Empower.

We help our community to take action on racial justice issues.

At Step Up, our mission is to take action against racial injustices within our community and around the world with the power of education.

Our Team

Meet our team of amazing people!

Rovena Caster

Co-Founder & Co-Executive Director


Hi everyone! I’m Rovena, a BSc. Integrative Physiology student. I serve as President of the Edmonton Cultural Association Youth Council, Awareness & Advocacy Lead at Council of India Societies of Edmonton, and Youth Leader at South Asians United for Mental Health. Experiencing racism at a young age inspired me to co-found Step Up Anti-racist Association, empowering youth to take action on equity issues. I also love graphic design and spending time with my bunnies, dog, and parrot!

My 3 passions are: Anti-Racism, Mental Health & Tamil Culture

Abigail Gallimore

Co-Founder & Co-Executive Director


Hello everyone! My name is Abi, and I’m a fifth-year Psychology student. I work as a Research Assistant at the University of Alberta and an Anti-Racism Facilitator for Action for Healthy Communities. As a first-generation immigrant, I faced many challenges moving to Canada. The 2020 BLM movement is what empowered me to finally use my voice, and stand up against discrimination. I’m also passionate about music. My top three genres are 1) Reggae, 2) 90’s Rap, and 3) Dancehall.

My 3 passions are: Anti-Racism, Inclusive Sport, Jamaican Culture

Kavya Kariamal headshot

Kavya Kariamal

director of fundraising

My name’s Kavya! I am a grade 11 student at Old Scona Academic High school. Some of my goals include continuing to work towards a community where everyone’s voices are not only heard, but listened to, and advocating for change within Edmonton and beyond.

Mariam Moustafa

Director of Volunteering

Hi! I’m Mariam and I am currently in my third year BSc in Psychology at Ualberta. I am excited to be part of an association that is addressing the injustices in our community, and uplifting the voices of POC. I hope to be of value to the community and to Step up AA through this position, and connect volunteers who are passionate for change. I also really enjoy reading and binge watching tv shows!

My 3 passions are: Youth Advocacy, Activism Against Islamophobia

Nour Marawad

Secretary

My name is Nour, and I am currently a third-year student majoring in Secondary Education with a minor in Business. I have been a part of Step Up for over a year, serving as Secretary, and I truly love the work we do. I have seen the impact of our efforts firsthand, and I am so proud of our growth. Our mission is incredibly important to our community, and I feel grateful to collaborate with such passionate and like-minded individuals.  I’m excited to see all that we will accomplish in the upcoming year!

My 3 passions are: Anti-Racism, Women’s rights, Social justice