Why/how do you find it meaningful? Why do you do it?

I really love helping people and seeing how happy it makes them. It also is really nice to hear how impactful our events are for youth and the people we donate to.

What was your impact on the community?

I was exhilarated to witness the success of my venture through the positive feedback coming from all the students that we catered to. The children in Grades 5-7 particularly emphasized the difference that digital literacy and technical skills had made to their education. They have gained skills that will make them more valuable to future employers, as they can now confidently design webpages and operate applications and software. Through the course of the workshops, the students developed an interest in these fields with an ardent desire to pursue Computer Science and Technology in the future. Above all, the workshops were a memorable and enriching experience for them as they learned these vital skills and applied them to hone their familiarity, talents, and hobbies using technology.

How do you see your work affecting your community and/or effecting change in your community?

I feel that in all the volunteer work I've done, it's all made the community feel more connected. Through the drive with Youth Initiatives Durham I have come to know the organization we donate to more closely as well as the homeless people we connect with.

What would you say to other people our age who are interested in getting involved in activism?

I would say go for it! You're never too young to start using your voice and making change. 

What challenges have you faced as a young activist?

Covid has really made it difficult for us to host in person activities and events so we've had to pivote to online conferences and art contests. 

Who/what inspires you to do this work?

Hannah Alper has been a big influence with all of her amazing work. Some of my older friends are also big inspirations as they are each leaders & changemakers in their own unique ways. 

Do you have any stories that have stuck out to you since you’ve been involved in this work?

I have a bunch of small stories but the best story I can tell is that of the work done at  the Community Assisted Meal Program (CAMP) in Oshawa. CAMP has built an amazing community amongst homeless people. The few times Youth Initiatives Durham has had the privilege to help out, we have had many eye opening experiences as well as heartfelt moments. We have given clothing directly to those who needed it and have even been recognized by some people as returning joyful youth. CAMP is an amazing group of people with such passion and commitment.