Sponsored by M.A. Evergreen, the Inspiring Seniors Award is awarded to an inspiring older adult (55+) who is empowering other seniors to live happier, healthier and more independent lives, either through volunteering, community building, working, sharing their culture or talent, or caregiving.
This year’s award goes to Lyn Verra-Lay. Through Belinda’s Connection Café in Delta, BC, Lyn has created a joyful, arts-based space where seniors gather to connect, create and thrive. Blending creativity and community, Lyn has built a haven that combats isolation and uplifts the mental wellbeing of older adults across Surrey, White Rock and Delta.
“I have a background in performance and visual arts, and I thought why don’t I invite seniors to come and connect through creativity and community?” says Lyn. “So, Belinda’s Connection Café was born in March 2022.”
Her workshops combine music, movement, storytelling and journaling — encouraging seniors to express themselves freely while forming meaningful friendships. Since opening in 2022, Belinda’s Connection Café has welcomed seniors aged 55 to 95, proving that creativity and connection have no age limit.
“It’s wonderful to see everyone having a good time. I’m happy when they are happy,” Lyn expresses.
Lyn’s work reminds us that the arts are not just a pastime — they are a pathway to wellbeing, joy and human connection. Through her leadership, she continues to inspire others to see aging not as an ending, but as a vibrant new chapter filled with colour, laughter and possibility.
Learn more about the 2025 DIVERSEcity Awards of Impact recipients here.