As a life-long member of the Midland YMCA, I have been a student, a teacher and was shown how to become a leader. I have had experiences, thanks to the YMCA, that otherwise would not have been possible. The most valuable to me was travelling with the Youth Leadership Program. I have represented the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka at our satellite location in Moose Factory, Ontario, attended a youth leadership conference in Edmonton and volunteered in the community of Toulabé, Honduras. These experiences helped me grow into a strong and self-confident young adult. Going into the Youth Leadership Program I was very shy, but working through leadership challenges with my fellow participants helped me find my voice and courage to lead. It was wonderful to work with such an amazing group of passionate youth.

My life path was influenced by my time and experiences in the Youth Leadership Program, notably my area of study in University. After my time abroad in Toulabé and experiencing the community’s culture and standard of living I pursued a Post-Secondary education in International Development. I take great pride in having my Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences, and now utilizing this knowledge in my career in the Social & Community Services industry.

After completing my education, and staring my career in Simcoe County, I pursued a nomination to become a member for the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka’s Board of Directors. My nomination was approved by the Board and I started this new chapter of my relationship with the YMCA in the fall of 2013. Now serving on the Board of Directors I’m eager to participate in the growth of the Youth Leadership Program, with the goal of making it accessible to more youth and increasing the skill sets of our community’s future leaders.