L.A. Matheson Secondary teacher named one of Canada’s Most Powerful Women
Gurpreet Kaur Bains has made a difference in the lives of countless students over her 25-year teaching career, and her efforts are most recently being recognized by WXN (Women’s Executive Network) as one of the 2026 Canada’s Most Powerful Women: Top 100 Award Winners.
The L.A. Matheson Secondary teacher was selected out of applicants from across Canada, acknowledged under the Professionals category for her mentorship, advocacy and dedication to student success. The awards honour exceptional women whose leadership, innovation and impact are shaping industries, organizations and communities across Canada.
“Many community members had been encouraging me to apply but I always hesitated,” said Bains. “But I realized over time that it’s important for immigrant women of color like me to take up space and show up on platforms like WXN.
“I wanted to highlight the Surrey story on a national platform, to shed a light on our work as educators and how we are using education as a vehicle for positive change and a bold future.”
Throughout her career, Bains said she has focused on helping others succeed by supporting students facing barriers, mentoring educators, advocating for equitable opportunities and building meaningful community partnerships.
As the school’s languages department head, she has mentored numerous new teachers, and has supported numerous students over the years who have been recipients of the Dhahan Youth Awards, an annual creative writing competition in the Punjabi language. She has also overseen the school’s fundraising efforts for the Guru Nanak Diversity Village long-term care facility, inspiring students to raise more than $18,000 to date.
“I took the opportunity to reflect on the impact of my work and the collective achievements that have been possible through collaboration with students, colleagues, and community partners,” said Bains. “I am deeply grateful to the mentors and leaders who believed in me and supported my growth.”
Bains said being named one of Canada’s Most Powerful Women is not about position, status or authority – it’s about creating positive change and using one’s influence to help others succeed.
“This recognition reflects the importance of empathy, advocacy, inclusion and service-centered leadership,” she said. “Throughout my career, I have believed that empowering others, especially those whose voices are not always heard, creates a lasting impact in our schools and communities.”
“What makes this recognition especially meaningful is knowing that the successes of the students, educators, and communities I have had the privilege to work alongside are part of this story. Their determination, courage, and achievements have inspired me throughout my career and continue to inspire me every day.”
Bains expressed deep gratitude to her family, friends, students, colleagues, mentors and community partners, consider this award a reflection of the collective impact of everyone on her career journey.
“I am truly honoured and grateful for this recognition. It is inspiring to be part of a community that celebrates leadership, impact and the advancement of women.”
