Reach high, for stars lie hidden in your soul. Dream deep, for every dream precedes the goal. - Pamela Vaull Starr
Seeds planted in the heart make for wonderful dreams.
I am passionate about social justice and human rights. Throughout my work as an educator, social worker and community activist, I have learned that there are many ways to work with individuals and communities. I have come to believe that international work does not always have to mean working in a location outside of Canada. We live in an interconnected world, in which the ways that we spend our money, relate to others around us and understand power both locally and globally all affect communities around the world. When we work in Canada, we can bring an international focus to our practice. We can ensure that our work is anti-oppressive, that we are aware of emerging and shifting international concerns and the role that Canada plays in these concerns. We can search out connections to the 'bigger picture' that affects people around the world; whether it be food sovereignty, air quality, access to water, the right of education, women's empowerment or community sustainability.
While I can not predict the future, or know exactly where my path in life is going to take me, I can maintain a focus on the core values and principles of international social work that I hold close to my heart. I can seek connection between local and global issues. I can learn a great deal through the vast experience and expertise of international communities. Perhaps most importantly, I can maintain my sense of humor, optimism, and a desire to be an avid and committed learner throughout my professional and personal life.
So what is next? I will continue working as a community facilitator, connector and animator in Canada and Internationally. On the side, I have been working as a birth doula, and loving the chance to be with families at a time of great transition and growth. I plan to continue dreaming big!
To learn more about my next steps, please click on each individual image below.
Me visiting the home of one of the families that I worked with in 2011
Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined. - Henry David Thoreau