I decided to go back to college when I turned 50, and get my diploma as a social service provider. I was always drawn towards marginalized individuals, but I did not know in what capacity I wanted to serve them, until I immersed myself in volunteer work.

I had the good fortune of doing some of that volunteer work at SOS Children’s Village BC, partly due to my sister Shelina working as office manager. When it came time for choosing a practicum site last year, I requested working at the Village with SOS. I had previously volunteered on the administration side of things, and with the SOS Children’s Holiday Gala and Gingerbread Village, but I really wanted to work with the caregivers, and be hands on with the youth.

After completing my practicum at the Village, I was given a position as a Neurofeedback Technician, and have just been accepted as the new Case Manager/Coordinator of SOS Children’s Village. I have worked and volunteered in the non-profit community for most of my adult life, and I am excited about starting out this new chapter.

Why I love my job: “I love my job because I am passionate about everything I do with the amazing kids and families I get to collaborate with. I feel blessed and privileged that I may help make a difference in the lives of the people that see me, and I believe in the strengths of all the youth within our communities. Hearing the children laugh is the best part of my day, and I am honoured to be a small part of their development.”