Youth advocate brings dementia awareness to the next generation

At just 15 years old, Grace Lee is already reshaping how young people understand dementia. A Grade 10 student, she describes herself as a youth advocate, driven by a passion to challenge stigma.

Her journey began with her grandfather, who lived with Alzheimer’s disease and cancer. Through that experience, Grace realized many of her peers did not fully understand Alzheimer’s disease or its impact on families, often viewing it simply as something that happens to older adults. That gap in understanding and stigma motivated Grace to act.

She launched Mind with Grace, a youth-focused social media initiative aimed at making dementia education accessible and relatable. “I wanted to start by raising awareness,” Grace says. “I wanted to target youth audiences and ultimately connect them with older adults,” Grace says.

Grace believes awareness is a critical first step. “People need to know what dementia is, what people are feeling and the social issues they’re going through.” Through her posts, she explores topics  including the higher prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease in women and the societal factors surrounding the disease.

Her curiosity has also led her into research. After reaching out to a neuroscientist at the University of British Columbia, Grace began volunteering in a lab studying Alzheimer’s disease.

Although Grace admitted she was nervous stepping into a room surrounded by professionals, she realized this was an opportunity to learn and speak on the importance of making research more accessible. “There’s so much information that is often misunderstood,” Grace says. “I hope in the future research labs explore social media to share clear, reliable information directly with the public.”

Grace is also involved in hands-on initiatives, including a digital companion project that brings technological tools into seniors’ homes. Through this work, she interacts directly with older adults, gaining insight into their lived experiences.

These experiences have also reshaped how she thinks about dementia. “I used to hear people described as ‘patients,’ but they’re just like the rest of us,” says Grace. “They may need more time or guidance, but they’re not patients. When we listen more carefully, we understand them better.”

Grace hopes to inspire other younger people to get involved. “If you’re passionate, don’t worry about being judged,” Grace says. “Once you begin, it’s not scary anymore. No one can copy your passion.”

Looking ahead, Grace hopes to continue her work in public health and advocacy. This summer, she plans to volunteer in seniors’ homes in Korea with her grandmother, expanding her experience in the community.

Above all, Grace wants people to leave her story with a sense of hope. “Youth are paying attention. We want to help spread awareness and lessen the stigma,” Grace says. “I want to share there is hope.