Ramandeep Banga is making a difference in Calgary among its homeless population, but, beyond success, what he hopes for is to influence others to act the same.

“If, five or 10 years down the road,” he says, “someone approaches me and says I helped them change, helped to get them off the streets, it would be great.

“But, really, I hope to inspire others to do what they can.”

Banga strongly believes in the importance of trying to do good and that one person can make a difference. “I don’t think it’s very difficult,” he says. “To change the world is very easy. If you think you can change it, it becomes easier, as long as you know what you’re working toward and believe you can do it.”

He says it’s also important to stay inspired. Banga encourages reading books that are motivating or have a moving story, and emphasizes how much can be picked up from a good book.

He further suggests that having a role model will help any efforts stay on track: “I’m a really big fan of Mother Teresa.”