Andrea Almeida-Pasko

After receiving the Governor General’s Award when she graduated from high school, Andrea studied Commerce at McGill University. Her time there was marked by significant involvement in case competitions, serving as the Executive Director for the McGill Management International Case Competition, among other roles. A study semester in Milan sparked her interest in travel and other cultures.

She joined the University of Toronto's Law Faculty in 2021 and pursued a concurrent degree in criminology. Her goal was to better understand how criminal justice impacts marginalized communities. Andrea has volunteered with the Pro Bono Students Canada and led initiatives supporting women and children facing violence. Andrea is particularly proud of her volunteer work with the Law in Action Within Schools Program, tutoring and mentoring at-risk Toronto youth.

Set to complete her Juris Doctor and a Masters in Criminology and Sociolegal Studies in June, she’ll start articling at the Barrie Crown Attorney’s Office. Andrea hopes to fulfill her lifelong ambition of working as a prosecutor, specializing in prosecuting sexual and intimate partner violence. Her journey reflects a deeply rooted passion for advocacy, inspired by her formative years at St. Bernadette and St. Joan of Arc. Andrea says, “My Catholic faith has instilled within me a desire to help the vulnerable. Just as Jesus taught us to love our neighbours, especially those who are experiencing distress, I hope to share this love through advocating for justice and serving my community.”