Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) helped Desmond Tompkins turn hands-on learning and a strong sense of community into real-world impact — and he’s using those experiences to lift up young artists.
The 23-year-old leads youth-driven arts programs and creates inclusive spaces that connect people to culture and each other. He’s now being celebrated by the Surrey and White Rock Board of Trade with a Top 25 Under 25 Award, which recognizes difference-makers under the age of 25 who are leading positive change in the region.
Tompkins, who is majoring in English at KPU, heads the Youth Arts Council of Surrey (YACOS), coordinating social-justice programming for artists ages 13 to 25. He also manages public outreach for the White Rock Museum and Archives, connecting residents to local heritage through inclusive education.
A 2025 KPU Gender and Sexual Equity Advocacy Award recipient, Tompkins’ artwork has been featured in the Surrey Art Gallery and Pulp Magazine, KPU’s literature and visual arts magazine. He is a member of several arts organizations, including the BC Museums Association and the BC Alliance for Arts and Culture, where he conducts outreach and supports fellow artists.
He hopes to become a secondary school teacher — with a focus on diversity, equity and inclusion in education — and continue supporting vulnerable and marginalized students.
What does being named a Top 25 Under 25 recipient mean to you?
It’s an incredible honour. As someone who was once labelled “at-risk” and who faced bullying and mental health challenges during adolescence, I never imagined I would achieve something like this. I was fortunate to access support and opportunities through my alternative school, the White Rock Learning Centre, as well as through the arts community. Because of that support, it means so much to be recognized for the work I now do to give back to my community by connecting with and supporting young people. I hope my journey shows young people that with the right support and resilience, they can achieve things they may never have thought possible.
What has your experience been like at KPU?
I’ve had an incredible experience at KPU so far. Due to the small class sizes and personalized learning opportunities, I’ve been able to connect with my peers and instructors in many meaningful ways. I’ve especially enjoyed participating in the hands-on learning opportunities that KPU offers, including the Museum Lab program and the English Studies in the Classroom course. Outside of academics, I’ve found a sense of belonging in student spaces like the Pride Centre, and in community events put on by the Office of Equity and Inclusive Communities.
What inspired you to take on a leadership role with YACOS?
I actually began as a YACOS member when I was 15 years old. In 2023, YACOS was struggling in the aftermath of the pandemic and facing a lack of support. The team at the Arts Council of Surrey reached out to me and asked if I would step into a leadership role to help run the program, and I enthusiastically said yes. I’m most proud of YACOS’ youth-led events, including our workshops, exhibitions and performances. These initiatives give young people the opportunity to lead and participate in the kinds of arts programming they want to see in their community. One of my personal favourite events is our annual art exhibition, which gives young artists the opportunity to showcase their work in a professional gallery space in Surrey at no cost. It’s so rewarding to see young people build confidence and share their unique talents with our community.
What advice would you give others who want to make a difference while at university?
I would encourage them to reflect on what they are passionate about, whether that is art, sports, the environment, or any other interest, and identify what initiatives are already happening in their community and where support is needed. Approach the work with a mindset of relationship-building. Take the time to listen, connect with people in these organizations, and learn about the needs of the community. From there, you can find meaningful ways to use your talents to support the work that is already happening, and even build new initiatives.
