Programs Coordinator | sunmin@youngdiplomats.ca

Moncton, NB

SunMin Park is a biomedical scientist, youth advocate, and community builder. A second-year MSc student at Mount Allison University, her research investigates the bioactivity of artificial sweeteners in the gut, with a focus on cellular signaling and metabolism as well as their implications for health and food safety.

Born in South Korea and raised in Canada, she grew up navigating between two cultures—an experience that shaped how she sees the world and continues to guide her through her journey at the intersection of science, health, and public service.Carrying that perspective into both STEM and beyond, SunMin has always been passionate about creating spaces where young people feel supported and empowered to lead. From building community programs that connect rurally-placed K-2 children and families through science and literacy to mobilizing her peers around lifesaving health initiatives, she knows firsthand how uplifting youth voices and potential can transform both communities and conversations.

Her passions have also led her to Parliament Hill, where she advised federal Ministers of Health, Environment and Climate Change, and Diversity and Inclusion and Youth. Today, she leads national advocacy efforts with UNICEF Canada as a National Youth Advocate, supports young scientists of Korean heritage across Canada as a national youth executive with the Association of Korean Canadian Scientists and Engineers, and works to advance gender equity for women and girls in sports as the International Olympic Committee’s Young Leader for Canada (2025-2028).

As a Programs Coordinator with Young Diplomats of Canada, SunMin is excited to help shape and support the delegation experience, creating spaces where Canadian youth feel supported and empowered to bring their voices to international dialogues that shape our future.