Faces of WEST
Kristi Koutros
WEST Client (LEAD)
“Believe in your abilities and set clear, achievable goals to stay focused and motivated. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and don’t be afraid to take risks. Remember to celebrate your successes, no matter how small, and stay resilient in the face of setbacks.”
- Tell us about yourself.
My name is Kristi Koutros, and I am a registered Social Worker. I completed my Master of Social Work at the University of Windsor. I love to feed my passion for volunteering and giving back to the community that has given me so much. I am actively involved with the Optimist Club of Riverside and serve as the Southwestern Ontario District Chair for an essay scholarship. I have a little fur baby named Lucy; she has a lot of personality. Some of my hobbies include cycling, pageantry, painting, and gardening. A fun fact about me is that I love cooking new recipes. - What does WEST mean to you?
WEST means a lot to me as it has been a cornerstone in my journey toward personal and professional growth. Through the Women in LEAD program, I have improved essential skills that boosted my confidence and opened up new career opportunities that I might not have had otherwise. - How does WEST support individuals from diverse backgrounds in navigating and overcoming systemic barriers?
WEST offers an array of programs designed to support newcomers, youth, and promote gender equality while providing comprehensive employment assistance. For newcomers, WEST provides settlement services and language training to help integrate into the community and workforce. Youth programs focus on skill development, career guidance, and mentorship to prepare young women for successful futures. Gender equality initiatives aim to empower women through advocacy, education, and leadership opportunities. Additionally, WEST offers employment assistance through job placement services, resume-building workshops, and interview preparation, ensuring that all women have the tools and support needed to achieve their career goals. WEST continues to live by its values and dedicate itself to fostering, promoting, and advocating for inclusivity and diversity for all women. - Can you share an experience where understanding or embracing cultural diversity significantly impacted your work or personal life?
Embracing cultural diversity is important every day, whether at work or in my personal life. I have recently become friends with my neighbors from Nepal. They have graciously invited me to their cultural celebrations, continuously provided me with teachings, and introduced me to their cultural dishes. I have found a deep appreciation for their culture and admire their strengths when facing adversity. - What advice do you have for women striving to achieve their dreams?
Some advice I have for women is to believe in your abilities and set clear, achievable goals to stay focused and motivated. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and don’t be afraid to take risks. Remember to celebrate your successes, no matter how small, and stay resilient in the face of setbacks. - What empowers you?
What empowers me is setting clear and achievable goals, which provide direction and purpose in my life. Connecting with my community fosters a sense of belonging and support, while believing in myself and using positive affirmations boosts my confidence and resilience.
