There are two key experiences that continuously inspire my work in the equity and sustainability sectors – immigrating to Canada, and growing up in a climate-vulnerable country.

When I immigrated to Canada at 10 years old, my family faced substantial challenges to adapt financially and culturally. We were fortunate to have received help from social programs, family, and friends. I carved this feeling of gratitude deep into my heart, inspiring me to partake in work that serves people in the same way that I have been served.

I grew up in the Philippines, where the devastating impacts of climate disasters like typhoons and floods were a common reality. Witnessing families lose their homes, livelihoods, and loved ones to these events left a lasting impression on me. I first encountered the concept of climate change in grade 9, learning about how climate change will continue to exacerbate magnitudes of climate disasters and disproportionately impact third-world countries with less access to resources necessary to adapt, like the Philippines. My grade 9 teacher empowered me by introducing the idea that everyone has a role to play in addressing the climate crisis, especially those in resource-rich countries like Canada, which holds the power to effect global change. In hindsight, I now realize how my teacher played an important role in my work today, inspiring me to empower those around me as well.

All the work that I am doing today has been made possible by inspiring mentors who have empowered me by acknowledging my work and believing in my potential. My dream is to empower those around me in the same way that I have been empowered. I am particularly interested in working with marginalized communities to embrace the unique experiences and perspectives they hold, and how they can use this to change the world into one that is more equitable.