Mar 17, 2009

Suzie was beginning her career and wanted to complement her professional life with volunteer work. She wanted to be involved with an organization for young people and, as a young woman, wanted to work with girls.

In 2006, while busy working as Legal Counsel to the Senate of Canada, Suzie became a Board Member of Girl Guides of Canada (GGC). She believes in GGC's Mission and Vision and feels that Girl Guides of Canada has definitely opened her horizons.

"My work on the Board complements my professional work as a critical thinker, strategic planner, advocate, team player and leader. I believe that GGC plays a significant role in the decisions a girl makes in her life. GGC teaches life skills and instills confidence and self-conviction in girls."

In February 2007, Suzie had the opportunity to represent GGC in New York City at the 51st Session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women. The theme of the 51st session was the elimination of all forms of discrimination and violence against girls. During the week-long event, Suzie had the chance to attend historically significant events, panels and discussions. She met people from around the world, including Guiding sisters from Uganda, Antigua and Barbuda, the United States, Lebanon and Austria.

"GGC offers women an opportunity to show leadership and contribute to the stewardship of Canadian girls. It also permits women to employ their skills and talents to work together with other equally talented and unique women for the rewarding goal of guiding our girls."

Another reason why Suzie is interested in Guiding is because she believes today's girls are bombarded with images of what and how they should be. GGC provides opportunities for girls to self-discover and be proud of who they are as individuals.

"They learn to believe in their potential to confidently do all that they set their hearts and minds to. GGC helps build communities of girls and women who can provide support, cooperation and cohesion among girls, women and the wider community."

Suzie feels that volunteerism holds a very important place in today's society. Without it, many good causes would go unheard of and would lack champions to further them.

"My involvement in GGC has been educational. I have learned so much about how a non-profit organization operates and about the GGC Movement and culture. I am proud to be a Member of GGC.