In high school, my co-operative placement at the Toronto Police Services convinced me that I was set out to become a police officer. I was always fascinated with the criminal justice system, however, I was more concerned with social issues and what was taking place in my community.My goal at that time was to become a community relations officer to primarily work with youth. I attempted to pursue this career, but I realized that I was fulfilling that career choice to fulfill others and not myself, and I also realized that I didn’t have to become a police officer to make a difference in the lives of others.

I knew that I wanted to work in the Community Services field, and I also knew that I wanted to continue my post-secondary education, but I didn’t know where to start. I happened to be referred to an educational program called Serve Canada. I had no idea what I was getting myself into but I was motivated to try the program out. In this program, my team and I worked on community development projects throughout Toronto, providing quality service for children, youth, seniors and the homeless in our community. At that time, the projects personally empowered me to further my leadership potential and become an advocate for youth. I became a member to the Toronto Youth Cabinet.

I am currently on the Executive Committee, as the Director of Outreach on the TYC. I work actively with young people, forging relationships with other youth serving organizations and City Council. My schedule was overwhelming at times, yet I still found time to assist with Serve Canada’s After-School program, sit on the Youth Advisory Committee, facilitate a youth group, attend workshops and youth conferences. This program has helped me realize my potential and direct it towards pursuing a career as a Social Worker.

Upon graduation, I was able utilize to the skills I learned from Serve in the summer as a Youth Outreach Worker at For Youth Initiative. From there, I am in my first year of college in the Social Service Worker program at Centennial College. Being out of school for almost two years can be weird, but once I got into the flow I got the hang of it. Most of my time management and organizational skills I learned at Serve which comes in handy when I have an 8:30 am class. Not only am I a first year student, but a first year student who got elected to represent her fellow students on the Centennial College Student Association Inc. as School Representative of the Applied Arts. Being on the Board of Directors is something that I am personally proud of. As I move toward accomplishing my goals, I’ve come to realize that without Serve Canada I couldn’t be where I am today.