Advocacy & Community Work
Writing is part of advocacy, but I also love being out and about in the community.
Neighbourhood Wellness
One of my greatest passions is working with Vancouverites to create thriving, supportive, and connected communities.
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I’ve been involved in initiatives such as community cleanups, public space revitalization projects, urban greening programs, accessible playground and trail improvements, and outreach programs that help isolated seniors and people with disabilities engage more fully in city life.
I’ve also supported city-led events and workshops that bring neighbors together around wellness, recreation, and environmental stewardship.
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What I find most rewarding is that these projects don’t just make our city healthier and more vibrant — they also strengthen the bonds between neighbors, foster a sense of belonging, and help Vancouverites take pride in the places we share.
Inclusive Spaces
If there is one factor that too often keeps people from fully enjoying our city’s public spaces, it is lack of accessibility. Ensuring that everyone — including people with disabilities, seniors, and families — can access and enjoy parks, recreation facilities, and community programs has been a central focus of my advocacy and writing.
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I have led initiatives and collaborated with local organizations to improve accessibility in public spaces, from playgrounds and trails to recreation centers and civic buildings. I’ve also advised on inclusive design and policies to help Vancouver’s parks and programs serve everyone, regardless of ability.
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Through this work, I aim to ensure that Vancouver’s parks and recreation system is not only welcoming but also innovative, barrier-free, and responsive to the diverse needs of our community.
Welcoming Communities
Another long-time passion is teaming up with self-advocates to advocate for the full community participation and inclusion of persons with intellectual disabilities.
In addition to writing often about this topic, I have served as the chair of Community Living British Columbia's Vancouver Council, which focuses on issues like inclusive housing, employment, and accessibility.
Youth Engagement
Having benefited from mentorship as a youth, youth engagement has been a focus of mine. This includes co-facilitating a YMCA program for young newcomers to Canada, and working on the Fresh Voices and Fostering Change advocacy campaigns for newcomers to Canada and youth in BC's care system respectively.
I also had a great time at Easter Seals hosting programs for youth and young adults with disabilities.
Other Activities
Volunteering as a greeter at a seniors' thrift store - Clothes & Collectibles - showed me that friendship is timeless and inspired me to write "Time To Bridge The Generational Divide".
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Volunteering in the Downtown Eastside helped me see that community can be found anywhere, and that you should not just listen to what the news says about people.
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Teaming up with newcomers to organize community events taught me that the most humble, unassuming people can have the most amazing stories - of war, love, and perseverance.