The Student Support Navigators provides meaningful support to prospective and current students who have had past or current care experience with the BC Ministry of Children and Family Development (MFCD) or Indigenous Child and Family Service Agency (ICFSA).
As defined by the Child, Family and Community Service Act, a youth in care is someone who is currently, or has received care from the Ministry of Children and Family Development or a Delegated Aboriginal Agency (DAA) through the Child, Family and Community Service Act for a minimum of twelve months (consecutive or accumulated) in any, or a combination, of the following categories:
Continuing Custody Order pursuant to sections 41 (1) (d), 42.2 (4) (d) or (7) or 49 (4), (5) or 10 (a) of the Act
Temporary Custody Order
Special Needs Agreement pursuant to section 7 of the Act
Voluntary Care Agreement pursuant to section 6 of the Act
Youth Agreement pursuant to section 12.2 of the Act
Extended Family Plan pursuant to section 8 of the Act
Permanent Transfer of Custody Order pursuant to section 54.01 or 54.1 of the Act
Temporary Transfer of Custody pursuant to section 41(1)(b) of the Act
A protection order in which the court temporarily places the child in the custody of an adult, other than a parent, who has an established familial, relational, or cultural connection to the child.
Transitioning out of care and into independent adulthood can feel overwhelming—especially while navigating your post-secondary journey. The Student Support Navigator is here to guide you through academic systems, connect you to resources, and make sure you never have to do it alone.
Support with applications to government programs and other resources of financial aid such as:
Provincial Tuition Waiver Program (PTWP)
Youth Futures Education Fund (YFEF)
Learning for Futures Grant (LFG)
Learning Fund for Young Adults (LFYA)
Strengthening Abilities and Journeys of Empowerment (SAJE)
Guidance on applying for external and internal scholarships, bursaries, and grants.
• Referrals to on-campus and off-campus services and supports.
• Regular check-ins throughout your time at Douglas.
• Access to events and workshops offered year-round.
• Help building life skills like time management and organization.
• Connection to counselling, Indigenous student services, and mental health supports.
• Coaching on problem-solving, knowing where to seek help, and finding solutions.
• Personalized 1:1 support for setting goals and tracking your progress.
Melissa Soltani
| Pronouns: She/Her Campus: New Westminster, Coquitlam and Virtual About: Meet with Melissa, she has been working in her role as Student Support Navigator since September 2023. Melissa identifies as a Second generation Iranian Canadian and has a Mild physical disability (Cerebral Palsy). Melissa received her Bachelor's degree in Social work from University of British Columbia in May 2023 and is passionate about providing a person centered approach rooted in trauma informed and culturally sensitive care. She strongly believes in supporting youth with navigating through the adversity that comes with the different phases and stages of life. In her free time Melissa enjoys writing poetry, catching sunsets and searching up recipes on TikTok.
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Lilian Truong
| Pronouns: She/her Campus: New Westminster and Virtual About: Lilian has been a dedicated member of the college community for over three years, bringing her background as a former business and marketing student from Douglas College into her work. As a second-generation Vietnamese, she deeply understands the challenges of navigating diverse cultures and personal identity. Throughout her time at the college, Lilian has gained valuable experience across various departments, including the Career Centre, Business Development, and Student Life. Currently, she serves as the second Student Support Navigator, where her holistic approach focuses on fostering both academic success and advocating for the mental and physical well-being of students. Outside of work, Lilian enjoys spending quality time with friends, exploring new podcasts, indulging in diverse cuisines, and traveling the world.
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