Tell us a bit about yourself!
I am an aspiring social worker originally from St. John’s, NL, on the traditional territories of the Beothuk. After completing a BA in Sociology with a minor in Biological Sciences at the University of Calgary in June, I realized that hands-on community development work is what I like best, and started the Diploma of Social Work program at Mount Royal University in September. In my spare time, I sing in choirs, write poetry, and watch a lot of Netflix!
What is your personal definition of feminism?
For me, feminism is about striving to dismantle the systems that disadvantage gender minorities in our society. I think that it is critical for our feminisms to address the various and intersecting forms of oppression that women and gender non-conforming folks experience – as activists, we can’t consider gender alone when our experiences are influenced by discrimination based on race, class, sexuality, and ability (to name a few) as well.
What brought you to the Women’s Centre of Calgary?
I was really drawn to the peer model used at the Women’s Centre, as well as our commitment to activism and anti-oppressive work. When I learned that we offer leadership programming for girls and young women, I was totally hooked! It doesn’t hurt that the Centre is located in such a vibrant, exciting, and walkable community, either.
What’s one thing you hope to learn at the Women’s Centre?
I am very excited to work on Girl Programs this semester, as I would ideally like to work with youth in my future social work practice. I’m looking forward to doing curriculum planning, facilitation, and evaluation.
Describe a woman who you admire or who has influenced your life.
My fiancée is an incredibly brilliant woman with a passion for the environment. She is kind, compassionate, funny, and knowledgeable, and has the greenest thumb I’ve ever come across – which is exciting, because although I love having plants around, I’ve managed to kill cactuses in the past! She encourages me to be the best version of myself that I can be, and I’m very excited to spend my life with such an inspiring woman (and our very cute dog).