At just 20 years old, Alexandra Elmslie is already redefining what leadership looks like.
A student at Western University and a lifelong Guelph resident, Elmslie is the 2025 recipient of the Community Builders Award in the Young Leader category, a recognition of her extraordinary contributions to youth living with ADHD and learning disabilities.
Elmslie knows firsthand the challenges of living with ADHD, she was diagnosed more than a decade ago.
That experience became a driving force behind her commitment to ensure others wouldn’t have to face the same barriers alone.
“I know how difficult it is to struggle with an invisible disability and to have to constantly advocate for yourself,” Elmslie says. “Decreasing those barriers and allowing everyone to access the support they deserve is something I’m very passionate about.”
Over the years, she has dedicated more than 1,000 volunteer hours to support neurodivergent youth, creating inclusive, empowering spaces that build confidence, resilience and community connection.
Her efforts have already made a profound impact on hundreds of young people.
One of her most notable achievements is founding Wellness4All, a virtual education and support program.
“One of my big projects, Wellness for All, reached over 200 students in the school board, then branched out to two other school boards,” Elmslie says. “Seeing that impact on a larger scale really blew my mind.”
The program offers vital resources for neurodivergent students, helping them access academic and emotional support in a way that feels approachable and validating.
As a volunteer mentor and tutor with the Learning Disabilities Association of Wellington County, Elmslie has demonstrated not only exceptional leadership but a deep understanding of the unique needs of the students she supports.
Whether tailoring tools to individual learning styles, teaching mindfulness techniques or helping a struggling student regain confidence, she has become a trusted and inspiring presence.
Her sessions are grounded in research, careful planning and a genuine desire to help her students feel seen and capable.
Her impact has extended far beyond academics, students she worked with have shown marked improvements in their self-esteem, advocacy skills and aspirations for the future.
“Having your work recognized is an incredible way of knowing that what you do has an impact and that it truly is having some sort of influence on other people,” Elmslie shared.
Elmslie’s ability to build strong, therapeutic relationships is a hallmark of her leadership style.
Her work has helped students at risk of disengaging from school begin to believe in themselves again.
She is widely admired for her adaptability, critical thinking and quiet determination, consistently going above and beyond to help others.
Staff and families alike have praised her compassion, dedication and skill in creating safe and welcoming spaces for youth who often feel overlooked or misunderstood.
Elmslie leads with empathy and purpose, always listening first and responding with care.
She’s not just advocating for change, she's creating it, one student at a time.
When asked about the future Elmslie shared, “My ultimate goal is to become a school psychologist and help students be diagnosed earlier, bringing awareness and support especially to those who couldn’t otherwise afford it.”
The Young Leader award goes to an individual or group, under 25 years of age, as of April 2025, actively involved in worthwhile community service, in any one of the Community Builders categories. Recipients are young leaders who show a commitment in making their community better for others.
Congratulations, Alexandra Elmslie!
This award is proudly sponsored by Dettmer Tire.
