Our 2026 Summer Students

Olivia Bagnald

Hi, I’m Olivia! I’m currently completing the final year of my Bachelor of Commerce degree at Saint Mary’s University, majoring in Marketing.

Growing up in an interfaith household, I always felt it was important to explore my faith for myself. During high school, I felt drawn to know Christ more deeply. As I visited different churches and studied Scripture with various groups, I continued searching for a church community where I truly felt at home.

When I came to West End Baptist Church in December 2025, I was warmly welcomed and quickly felt connected to the church family. Since then, I have become involved with the Young Adults group, Thursday Bible Study, the Discipleship and Mission Team, and the Worship Team. I also enjoy serving through music and have worked professionally as a live sound technician in Halifax.

I love working with children and helping others grow in their faith. I’m excited for the opportunity to serve at West End this summer as the Youth Ministries Coordinator with Music, and I look forward to sharing Christ’s love with the children, youth, and families in our community.

Tirzah Yim

Hi! I’m Tirzah! I’m from Hong Kong, and my family immigrated to Canada when I was eight years old. I’m currently heading into my senior year at Charles P. Allen High School. After graduation, I hope to earn an undergraduate degree in biology and then either pursue a medical degree or a Bachelor of Education in biology.

I love art, music, acting, baking, and working with children. I play the flute in my school band, and last year I was also part of our school musical and student council. I figure skate as well, and I absolutely love the sport!

I was born into a Christian family, and I’m so grateful to have known God my whole life! I attended a Christian school for my first six years in Canada, where my teachers played a huge role in helping my faith grow and inspiring me to get baptized in 2023. I’ve been part of Halifax Chinese Alliance Church since moving to Canada, where I regularly serve in the nursery and Sunday School. I also occasionally play the piano for the monthly children’s worship service.

I’m so thankful that God has given me the opportunity to serve as a summer student with West End. I’m excited to bring my energy and enthusiasm to the summer camps we’ll be running! I hope to grow in my faith, serve others well, and continue sharing the love of Jesus throughout the summer!

Zoe Hsia

Hi! I’m Zoe!

Next year, I’ll be starting my senior year at Citadel High School. After graduation, I hope to study medical science for my undergraduate degree and then (most likely!) attend Dalhousie University for medical school.

Ever since I was a kid, I’ve loved arts and crafts. That’s why my friends and I started a sewing and crochet club where we get together every week to chat, create, and make all kinds of fun projects. I’m also involved in my school’s student council and string ensemble. I love playing the violin because it has helped me grow in confidence. Outside of school, I enjoy cooking, baking, reading, and learning and speaking French.

My relationship with God ignited after I moved to Canada six years ago. I was born in Taipei, Taiwan, and raised in a wonderful Christian home. A few years after moving here, I attended Halifax Christian Academy, where my faith truly came alive. There, I made amazing friends (including Tirzah!). I had opportunities to grow by attending and later working at Bayside Camp, as well as volunteering in the nursery and Sunday school at my church at the time, Deep Water Church.

Last summer, I was introduced to West End Baptist Church, and the community blew me away. Everyone was so kind and welcoming that I immediately felt like I was already part of the church family. Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to serve in Shine Kids, join the worship team, and now work as a summer student!

I’m so grateful to be part of the team at West End Baptist Church, and I’m looking forward to growing in my faith, serving others, and continuing to develop as a leader throughout the summer.