"LBD has allowed me to feel more comfortable with who I am as a person. I feel more comfortable going into spaces knowing what I'm able to do."
Meet Angelika Bell: Leading by Example
Angelika Bell is already leaving an indelible mark on her school, her city, and beyond. Currently in Grade 11 at William Lyon Mackenzie Collegiate Institute in North York, Angelika is a member of the Leadership by Design 2022 cohort and, at age seventeen, she has distinguished herself as a passionate advocate and leader.
A Journey Fueled by Advocacy
Angelika’s commitment to student leadership began well before she was elected as a Toronto District School Board Student Trustee. Her journey was sparked when she witnessed a powerful student presentation on Black Lives Matter, which challenged her thinking and inspired her to get more involved. Her peers were asked whether they believed white privilege existed. Angelika said she was surprised by the number of students who said no. “It was a huge eye-opener to me,” she recalls. “It drove my need to apply to the equity collective [at my school] the following year, start a Black Students Association (BSA), and join other equity deserving initiatives.”
Embracing Leadership Through LBD
As a participant in the Leadership by Design (LBD) program, Angelika has sharpened her natural leadership abilities and cultivated a sense of belonging and confidence. “LBD has allowed me to feel more comfortable with who I am as a person. I feel more comfortable going into spaces knowing what I’m able to do,” she shares.
She credits LBD’s unique mentorship model for its impact. “LBD does a very good job at putting so many successful adults and students in a room to mentor and nurture each other and foster an overall family and community,” Angelika explains. “I really love LBD.”
Leadership on Every Level
From co-founding her school’s Black Student Association to serving as co-president of the business council, Angelika’s roles are as varied as they are impressive. She consistently advocates for her peers, ensuring that their voices are heard and respected, whether in school meetings or citywide initiatives. Her ability to lead with integrity and empathy sets her apart as a role model to those around her.
Advice for Future Leaders
Angelika’s experiences in student and community outreach have taught her invaluable lessons about personal growth and leadership. She encourages younger students to embrace new opportunities and not fear making mistakes. “Try everything. If you’re going to make a mistake, you should make it in high school,” she advises.
She also emphasizes the importance of first impressions and kindness. “I try to put my best foot forward as soon as I leave my home. You don’t know who’s paying attention to you, so the way you treat everyone matters.”
A Lasting Impact
September 2025 Update:
In autumn 2025, Angelika Bell began her first year at Spelman College, a private, historically Black, women’s liberal arts university in Atlanta, Georgia. At Spelman, she will pursue studies in economics and political science. Angelika received the prestigious Gordon-Zeto Scholar award, a full-ride scholarship for international students.
Danielle Reid, LLI Intern, December 2023 – May 2024
Bachelor’s degree, Journalism 2020 – 2024, Toronto Metropolitan University
Story updated September 2025
