It all started when…

Born and raised in Belleville, Ontario, Canada. 

Currently living in Toronto, working as a Talent Development Lead and Producer for the CBC Creator Network. Also works as the Co-Chair of DiversifyCBC. 

How I ended up in this role is a long and winding road. The short version is that after graduating from undergrad, I secured an internship with the UNHCR in New Delhi. I leveraged my experience to get a job with the Canadian Journalists for Free Expression, where I started writing and meeting journalists. My work got noticed by a CBC producer on Twitter and they sent me an internal job posting at CBC. Once I got my foot in the door, I networked around the building and produced a radio documentary. That then led to a reporter position in Yellowknife, which led to a radio producer position in Winnipeg, which then led to my current role in Toronto.

What made me realize I wanted to pursue a career in CBC?

It seemed like a natural fit. I’ve always enjoyed creativity and was always politically aware, so the CBC blends the two together. Journalism and storytelling allows me to explore social issues while allowing me to develop a varied skill set. Now I'm in the digital video and film side, which is another great learning opportunity. Plus, it's the CBC, Canada's national public broadcaster, the biggest media company in the country. It's the dream for so many to get there. 

A moment in life where I felt lost and uncontrolled? 

During undergrad I had no idea what I wanted to do, and even after I graduated I was unsure. It’s so hard to choose a path, especially when there are no role models to look up to. Most people I went to school with went to law school because that’s all they knew. I didn’t have a plan but somehow it worked out.

Biggest obstacles I faced in my life, or best and worst moments on the job?

The passing of my pala was the hardest time of my life. I also found the post university search for a career that aligned with my purpose to be very difficult. But I’ve learned more from the hard parts and failures than any of my successes. 

Who or what motivates you? Life lessons learned? 

The fact that our elders have been through so much suffering and can still maintain equanimity and compassion. I’ve enjoyed a relatively comfortable life in comparison and try to make the most of the opportunities that their sacrifices have given me.

My amalas belief and love in me was there from the beginning and gave me the confidence and support to believe I could do anything. I witnessed her and my pala's hard work every single day. I didn't want it to be for nothing. 

Any work you want to share / tips ? 

If you work your ass off and pursue what you are most passionate about, it may sound corny, but the universe somehow lines up the conditions for you to get there. The caveat is certain levels of privilege. But I’ve had some inexplicable moments and serendipitous connections that have led me to different opportunities. And throughout that process, you’re enjoying the journey because it’s what you want to do, so it’s a win either way.