Tell us a bit about yourself!
My name is Breanna, and I am a Social Work student at the University of Calgary. I am in my last semester, and I am super excited to be doing my practicum at the Women’s Centre! I was born and raised in Calgary, and I am interested in working with low income Calgarians and marginalized populations when I am done my degree. In my spare time I enjoy travelling, reading and hanging out with friends.
What is your personal definition of feminism?
For me, I am constantly changing my definition of feminism as my worldview changes. Right now, feminism to me is dismantling the systemic barriers that affect women on a daily basis, and the oppression that comes from it. It is also about dismantling patriarchy, because not only does this harm women, it also creates toxic masculinity in men, thus hurting women.
What brought you to the Women’s Centre of Calgary?
I first heard about the Women’s Centre from the University of Calgary. After researching the organization a bit more, I really enjoyed the reciprocal aspect of peer support, and the connections that are made when women are just helping women. I enjoy the Community Capacity Building Peer model as well, and how these all connect. Looking at systemic barriers that affect women is an important aspect of feminism and equality for all.
What’s one thing you hope to learn at the Women’s Centre?
One thing that I hope to learn at the Women’s Centre is how I can become more active in my community on fighting for the rights of women and girls. I also want to know how change can be made at each level of government.
Describe a woman who you admire or who has influenced your life.
Women I admire are both my grandmothers. They both have been through tremendous hardship and unfortunate illness. Now both living on their own, I admire their resiliency and strength as they begin this new chapter in their lives.