Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility Skip to main content
search
Category

Faces of WEST

Oct 28
Sarah Regan

Sarah Regan

By Faces of WEST

Faces of WEST

Sarah Regan

Sarah Regan

Libro Credit Union – Community Manager

“Believe in yourself, take advantage of opportunities to grow, and surround yourself by a community of women who will support you and encourage you along the way. Know that all goals are achievable with the right mindset and willingness to persevere through challenges. Aim to be fearless in the pursuit of your goals!”

  1. Tell us about yourself.
    I am a Community Manager at Libro Credit Union where I am delighted to lead our Belle River team. At Libro, we help our Owners to attain financial wellbeing through meaningful financial coaching. We also strive to make a positive impact in the Belle River Community and Windsor-Essex as a whole. I’ve been in financial services for 13 years and have held positions as an advisor and in leadership. I have found my home at Libro where I feel we truly make a difference in the lives of our Owners and communities! My passion is in helping others and finding ways to make the world around me a better place. I am also passionate about mental health and how physical activity is an important factor in both this and overall wellbeing.My favourite books include pretty much anything written by Stephen King and one of my favourite TV shows is Survivor, in large part because I have fun watching it with my brother. I do not currently have any pets, though am hopeful to be a dog mom in the years ahead. I love to keep active with volleyball, swimming, rollerblading, and biking along with additional hobbies of reading, cooking, and doing puzzles (depending on the weather!). Fun facts are that I have seen a tornado and I am the oldest of 6 siblings. My favourite restaurant is a toss-up between India 47 and Smoke & Spice. I’m always open to trying new places!
  2. What does WEST mean to you?
    To me, WEST means empowering women with the skills and training to have a thriving successful career trajectory. It means driving equity by providing opportunities for growth. It means working together to build for a strong, more inclusive, and thereby more powerful society.
  3. What motivated you to get involved with WEST?
    I had heard of WEST prior to beginning my career at Libro. It was when I joined Libro that I learned more about this incredible organization and the valuable services provided in the Windsor-Essex community. I was motivated to get more involved when I learned of our close value alignment in empowering others in their employment and the importance of diversity & inclusion. I was further motivated after getting involved by the dedicated and exceptionally passionate individuals that comprise the WEST Team. I am a huge fan of the efforts of WEST in our community!
  4. In your opinion, what sets WEST apart in its approach to supporting women in the community?
    In my opinion, what sets WEST apart is its approach is the expansive nature of programming to support women in all fields. Another standout is the enthusiasm of the WEST team towards driving the organizational mission and purpose.
  5. What advice do you have for women striving to achieve their dreams?
    The advice I would give to women striving to achieve their dreams is to believe in yourself, take advantage of opportunities to grow, and surround yourself by a community of women who will support you and encourage you along the way. Know that all goals are achievable with the right mindset and willingness to persevere through challenges. A challenge is a teachable moment and it is through our challenges that we come out stronger, wiser, and more prepared for the next. Aim to be fearless in the pursuit of your goals!
  6. Is there any woman that has inspired you or continues to inspire you?
    There have been numerous women in my life who have inspired and continue to inspire me. The woman who has inspired me most over the past year has been my Libro leader and Windsor-Essex Regional Manager, Lori Atkinson. Lori leads with a delicate balance of mind and heart. She is highly passionate about being a force for good in our community and uses strong business leadership skills to be able to contribute to this at a high level. Lori is compassionate, thoughtful, and driven. She instills confidence in others through strong relationships that challenge with a foundation of trust. I have heard the expression that leaders must hold themselves to a higher standard and it is something that I personally believe. I see Lori do this on a daily basis and it is evident that she gives her all in her work at Libro. Lori inspires those around her to give their all, myself included, and doesn’t forget to have fun together along the way. I am extremely grateful to have the continuing opportunity to work with, learn from, and be inspired by Lori.
  7. What empowers you?
    I am empowered by being part of a community of women who continuously pursue their dreams and who support one another along the way. In my work at Libro, my community involvement, and my career as a whole, I have met so many exceptional women who have pushed through obstacles to achieve their dreams. Hearing others say ‘I can’ and ‘I have’ energizes me to say the same in my own pursuits. Learning from the shared experience of others is key for me and I take every opportunity for empowerment that I can. I would like to recognize WEST for putting on workshops that empower in this way, including the Pathways to Progress event this year, in which I was honoured to participate. In that workshop alone I heard numerous empowerment pieces from the speakers including how to overcome perceived gender barriers, tactics for deescalating critical situations, and finding ways to lead in any position. Learning through these experiences and formal education are both ways in which I empower myself to continue to grow.
  8. Describe the collaboration between your organization and WEST. How does this partnership contribute to achieving shared goals and objectives?
    Libro is a proud partner and supporter of WEST. Through our Libro Annual Grants process we have recognized our value alignment and are glad to be able to support and participate in ongoing WEST initiatives. Our objectives overlap in the realm of gainful employment and the important place this has in overall financial wellbeing. I have heard the phrase that your ability to earn an income is your greatest asset. Empowerment in employment combined with financial literacy is a great recipe for success in attaining overall financial wellbeing. It has been a true pleasure in working with WEST to make strides toward our shared goals this year!
  9. Can you share an experience where understanding or embracing cultural diversity significantly impacted your work or personal life?
    It is my firm belief that a collective purpose is enhanced and made better when all voices are heard and represented. The greatest unity and reach of our voice is achieved when that voice is comprised of diverse individuals from various backgrounds, cultures, and beliefs. Over the course of my career I have been gifted with the opportunity to work with a number of beautifully diverse teams of individuals. I have learned the importance of acknowledging and embracing differences in one another. I know that I can bring my best self to any situation when I feel comfortable in bringing my full authentic self with me. As such, I do my best to encourage others to bring their full selves with them each day and share this brightness with the world around them. As a leader, it is also important for me to take action when I see someone being treated in a manner that discourages this ability. I am proud to work at an organization where we highly value diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Oct 28
Janelle Abela

Janelle Abela

By Faces of WEST

Faces of WEST

Janelle Abela

Janelle Abela

CEO & Growth Strategist of Diverse Solutions Strategy Firm Inc.

“I am a strong believer in asking and trying. What’s the worst they can say? No. So, why not ask. What’s the worst that can happen? It doesn’t work. So, why not see if it does. I learn from asking and trying, which helps me grow for the future.”

  1. Tell us about yourself.
    My name is Janelle Abela and I am the CEO of Diverse Solutions. I like to call myself a “Growth Strategist” because I look for ways that people can improve themselves, the way we can improve teams and our workplaces, and how we can grow as a community. I am an avid reader and “people watcher” because I think that this is the best way for me to learn about others and the world. I have a puppy named Zoey. I also enjoy going to the gym. The gym reminds me that consistency provides results over time, something that I forget when progress is intangible. I also enjoy cooking because it provides me a creative outlet to explore new things and learn from others.
  2. What does WEST mean to you?
    WEST means opportunity and support. These are two things that people can easily take for granted if they have it. For those who don’t have it, it can be hard to gain it, becoming a prominent barrier in their lives. Many people struggle with opportunity and support when they go through major transitions in their lives. So, to have people and space where this is provided, it gives hope and strength.
  3. What motivated you to get involved with WEST?
    As a woman of colour, I am aware of the challenges that women can face in entering the workforce. Having experienced harassment and discrimination myself, I know firsthand the effects on well-being. Being involved with WEST allows me to provide support for women who may be in situations like mine and to draw attention to these ongoing challenges for people who may be unaware (workplaces/employers).
  4. In your opinion, what sets WEST apart in its approach to supporting women in the community?
    Comprehensiveness and consistency. WEST is about making sure women are supported in various ways – they are like a family. It’s also not just about preparing the women. WEST makes an effort to prepare the community as well. This creates sustainable change and long-term growth for the women supported. WEST is also consistent with their support and always invested. This shows women that they matter and that they are worth the time.
  5. What advice do you have for women striving to achieve their dreams?
    Be your biggest fan. It can be challenging when you are trying to get buy-in from others, validation from others, and even support from others. This can be draining on your self-confidence and drive. Being your biggest fan means you believe in what you are doing and are celebrating yourself. It creates self-love and that is the fuel that keeps you going.
  6. Is there any woman that has inspired you or continues to inspire you?
    My mother and sister. They have taught me to persevere because we have to. Both have worked very hard to support their families and are continually striving to be better and do more. They are also both my biggest cheerleaders. Having strong women support strong women is more than inspiration, it feels like they have thrown me a rope to pull me up with them.
  7. What empowers you?
    Potential. I am a strong believer in asking and trying. What’s the worst they can say? No. So, why not ask. What’s the worst that can happen? It doesn’t work. So, why not see if it does. I learn from asking and trying, which helps me grow for the future. I am empowered by my freedom to think and do and the potential outcome of that.
  8. How does your organization’s partnership with WEST help address issues of cultural diversity and intersectionality?
    The work that my organization does is on the workplace/employer side of cultural diversity and intersectionality. I am able to utilize my own experiences as a tool for learning when building stronger workplace approaches. Also, having been on both sides of issues, I am able to navigate and support employers with low-risk, high-reward scenarios and discussions. In my work with WEST, I have leaned into support for the individual, which stems from my learning when working with employers.
  9. Can you share an experience where understanding or embracing cultural diversity significantly impacted your work or personal life?
    Understanding others has helped me realize that it’s not always about me. Doing things the way I have always done it or because I feel like it is the best way can be harmful to others. This supremacy can hinder growth and opportunity for everyone. Being a business owner, I have a strong connection to the success or failure of my organization. This has caused me to train/manage staff in a way that may be more like micromanaging or babysitting. After acknowledging the value of the people I brought on (I bring them on for a reason, right!), I am able to support them as a part of my company rather than a duplication of me. Embracing their differences exposes me to new insights and allows me to reframe my approaches to life and work.
Oct 28
Princess Small

Princess Small

By Faces of WEST

Faces of WEST

Princess Small

Princess Small

Programs Manager (Acting)

“I am deeply passionate about creating inclusive and safe environments where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. I believe that by lifting each other up, we can all reach new heights.”

  1. Tell us about yourself.
    I am someone who thrives on building connections and helping others unlock their potential. My career has been focused on supporting and uplifting women, particularly those facing barriers in the workplace. This is evident based on the various departments of WEST that I have worked including Employment Services, Young Women in LEAD, Women in Skill Trades the UTIP-SMART program and my current role of Program Coordinator of the Settlement Program for Newcomer Women and Girls. I am deeply passionate about creating inclusive and safe environments where everyone has the opportunity to succeed; this passion has driven me to volunteer in many different organizations such as WECAS, WWIA, The Giving Eight, The Black Council, BKIA, Windsor Women Supporting Women. When I am not working, I love spending time with my 2 beautiful children and ensuring that they are given all the opportunities to experience the world around them.
  2. What does WEST mean to you?
    WEST is more than an organization as I literally grew up at WEST! I have been working at WEST for almost 8 years and before that I was a part of 2 programs that were delivered by WEST; the Logistics program and the Young Women in LEAD program. In the walls of WEST I was able to discover a community where women, young girls and their families can find not just resources, but also a sense of belonging and empowerment. It is a space where individuals are supported at every step of their journey, whether they are looking to advance their careers, embark on a new career, gain new skills, or build confidence. WEST represents a commitment to breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for all women to thrive!
  3. In your opinion, what sets WEST apart in its approach to supporting women in the community?
    What sets WEST apart is its holistic approach. The organization does not just focus on one aspect of a woman’s life; it addresses the whole person. From assisting newcomer women and their families to navigate the nuances of moving to a new country and starting over to career training to emotional support, from financial literacy to mentorship, WEST ensures that women have access to all the tools they need to succeed. Another important aspect that sets WEST apart is the faith they have in their client’s ability to succeed which, is demonstrated in WEST’s practice of hiring clients to work in the organization and I am proud to say I am one example of many! WEST is a trailblazer of creating a supportive community where women uplift each other!
  4. In your experience, what are some of the key challenges faced by participants, and how does WEST effectively address them?
    Participants often face challenges such as lack of confidence, limited access to education or training, and barriers related to childcare or transportation. WEST addresses these challenges head-on by providing accessible programs, offering childcare solutions especially for newcomer women through our Care for Newcomer Children (CNC) Program, and fostering an environment where women are encouraged to believe in themselves. The personalized support and mentorship available at WEST help women navigate these obstacles and come out stronger on the other side.
  5. Reflecting on your journey with WEST, what’s one significant lesson or insight you’ve gained that you’d like to share with others?
    One significant lesson I have learned is the incredible power of resilience. The women I have met through WEST and within the Windsor Essex community have shown me that no matter how tough the circumstances, with the right support and determination, it is possible to overcome almost anything. This insight has taught me to be more compassionate and to never underestimate someone’s potential, even when they might doubt it themselves.
  6. Is there any woman that has inspired you or continues to inspire you?
    My mother has been a constant source of inspiration for me. She faced numerous challenges in her life but always persevered with grace and strength. Her resilience and unwavering belief in herself have taught me the importance of staying true to one’s values and never giving up, no matter the circumstances.
  7. How do you empower yourself and the women around you?
    I empower myself by continuously seeking out opportunities for growth, whether through education, new experiences, or simply surrounding myself with positive influences. I try to empower the women around me by being a supportive listener, offering encouragement, and sharing resources or knowledge that might help them on their path. I believe that by lifting each other up, we can all reach new heights.
  8. Can you describe a particularly impactful moment or success story that you’ve witnessed during your time working at WEST?
    One particularly impactful moment was when a participant who had struggled with confidence and unemployment for years finally secured a job in her desired field. Watching her transformation from someone who doubted her abilities to a confident, self-assured professional was incredibly moving. Her success story is a testament to the power of persistence and the right support system, and it’s moments like these that remind me why the work we do at WEST is so important.
Sep 13
Aruna Koushik

Aruna Koushik

By Faces of WEST

Faces of WEST

Aruna Koushik

Aruna Koushik

Legacy

“I believe in the humanity and that if you serve the world, it becomes an amazing place.”

  1. Tell us about yourself.
    One of the things I love is meeting people – they fascinate me and I’m always intrigued by the variety of people we meet in our lives. My profession is that I’m a conflict resolution specialist and a mediator. I have spent over 40 years in this business. If you break down what is most important to almost all of us it is family, safety, work ethic, kids, good food, great friends – you get my drift. We all work to achieve those goals. My passion has been Indian dancing and I taught that for 40 years in Canada though a lot more years in India. My volunteerism started when I was 12 or thirteen in my convent school and it molded my career. I enjoy watching crime and law shows intermittently with Bollywood films. I love to cook, bake and feed my friends. When I reached a milestone birthday I decided to support my husband and did skydiving for Polio twice.
  2. What does WEST mean to you?
    WEST is a dream come true for all the founding members and me. A fervent belief in the capacity of women to shine like beacons of hope in the employment arena the founding group founded WEST. We were bang on!!
  3. What motivated you to get involved with WEST, and how has it impacted your life?
    The concept of WEST inspired me. I have always been a women’s advocate from my days in India and had some incredible mentors like Mother Theresa, my dance teacher, Sucheta Joshi, and a few other strong women and I was inspired to continue that pathway for others to follow. So, when we knew there was an opportunity to craft an organization to support women into becoming professional we seized the moment.
  4. What advice do you have for women striving to achieve their dreams?
    My advice to women is as follows:

    • Believe in your dreams
    • Never give up
    • Stay strong but be kind
    • Gather like-minded women around you
    • Be patient and flexible
    • Work hard and plan every detail
    • Stand up tall always
  5. What makes you a strong woman? What fulfills you?
    I believe in humanity and that if you serve the world, it becomes an amazing place. I laugh a lot and my life was blessed by my late husband and my two incredible kids. I draw my strength from my family and my friends and that is my strength.
Sep 13
Fasiha

Fasiha Bashir

By Faces of WEST

Faces of WEST

Fasiha

Fasiha Bashir

Job Developer/Industry Placement Specialist

“I see every day in real-time what a difference we make in the lives of the people we serve, and it gives me the strength to persevere amidst all the challenges life throws at us.”

  1. Tell us about yourself. 
    I am originally from Pakistan and moved to Windsor 9 years ago to be with my husband.I have always believed and worked on the fundamental equality and empowerment of all individuals and advocating for people’s rights has been a long-life passion of mine. I started my journey when I was selected as a young Pakistani delegate to represent my country at an international leadership building camp in Maine, USA, hosted by the Seeds of Peace Organization in 2006. It was through this opportunity that I was able to address Mr. Richard A. Boucher, Deputy Secretary-General of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) USA, at the White House and discuss the conflicts happening in the region of South Asia. For a 14-year-old, that was an extremely empowering and memorable moment. From that time onwards, I have worked on the issues of social injustices across various countries, and I continue to be an advocate through my job at WEST. In my very spare time when I am not helping people find employment and when I have completed all my wifely and motherly duties, I enjoy playing video games as it gives me a break from all the stresses of the world. My favorite video game franchise is Resident Evil, especially the 4th one.
  2. What does WEST mean to you?
    WEST is a source of fulfillment for me as it allows me to express my talents, pursue my passions, and make a meaningful contribution to society. I see every day in real-time what a difference we make in the lives of the people we serve, and it gives me the strength to persevere amidst all the challenges life throws at us. It is not just my workplace, it is a place where I make connections with people, provide them guidance, and give people the skills they need to be able to become successful and contributing members of our economy.
  3. What motivated you to get involved with WEST, and how has it impacted your life?
    My mother-in-law took language classes at WEST when she came to Canada and as a newcomer, WEST was the only place of socializing for her. During her time at WEST, she not only improved her skills, but she also made friendships that are still thriving today. Being extremely passionate about social work and seeing the impact WEST had on my mother-in-law, I applied for the first job opportunity I saw at WEST so that I too am able to help transform people’s lives.
  4. In your opinion, what sets WEST apart in its approach to supporting women in the community?
    WEST not just talks the talk, it walks the walk and its promise of helping remove barriers to employment for women is reflected in our staff, especially in leadership positions as I have yet to see more diversity in any other organization. No matter which community you belong to, there will be someone from WEST who will be able to understand you, empathize with you and help you with whatever it is that you are looking for.
  5. What empowers you?
    My children are my greatest source of empowerment and I have been gifted with both a neuro-divergent son and a neuro-typical daughter whose unconditional love, resilience, and endless curiosity inspires me to be the best version of myself not just for my family, but for all families out there.
Sep 13
Carmelo Calcara

Carmelo Calcara

By Faces of WEST

Faces of WEST

Carmelo Calcara

Carmelo Calcara

LiUNA!625 – Training Director

“Women in the construction field represent a new generation where opportunities previously unavailable are now within reach. They are being watched and judged, so I encourage them to be champions, focus on success, and not be deterred by any negativity.”

  1. Tell us about yourself.
    I come from an immigrant family from Italy and have four siblings. During high school, I spent my summers working at my father’s construction company. I am a graduate of St. Clair College’s civil engineering program. I’ve been happily married for 36 years and have two wonderful sons and two grandchildren. My passion for construction has led to 30 years of experience working on incredible projects. I’ve had the privilege of working with industry champions like Mario Vozza, Denise Meret, Perry Wong, Don Spurr, Robert Demenia, and currently, Rob Petroni. At the LiUNA Training Center, I have a great team that makes me enjoy my work and be passionate about partnerships, such as with WEST.
  2. What does WEST mean to you?
    To me, WEST represents an opportunity for women to showcase their passion and courage in facing challenges that were once unthinkable.
  3. What motivated you to get involved with WEST, and how has it impacted your life?
    Five years ago, when WEST approached us, we were hesitant. However, looking back, partnering with WEST has been one of our best decisions. We are at the forefront of history, witnessing women’s increasing involvement in the skilled trades, and we are proud to be partnered with WEST.
  4. In your opinion, what sets WEST apart in its approach to supporting women in the community?
    WEST is accomplished, professional, and aggressively focused on growth in the skilled trades, making it both challenging and rewarding.
  5. Reflecting on your journey with WEST, what’s one significant lesion or insight you’ve gained that you’d like to share with others?
    One key insight I’ve gained is the passion for construction. Previously, I was surrounded by male colleagues and never anticipated that women could be interested or passionate about this field. I was proven wrong.
  6. Is there any woman that has inspired you or continues to inspire you?
    My mother’s story is inspirational. An Italian immigrant who married at 16, she moved to a new country and raised five children by the age of 23. Her courage, strength, and determination are qualities I will always admire.
  7. What advice do you have for women who want to work in a male dominated field?
    Women in the construction field represent a new generation where opportunities previously unavailable are now within reach. They are being watched and judged, so I encourage them to be champions, focus on success, and not be deterred by any negativity. Success stories emerge daily when women challenge themselves outside their comfort zones and excel in areas once deemed unlikely for them.
Sep 13
Ankita

Ankita Sroa

By Faces of WEST

Faces of WEST

Ankita

Ankita Sroa

Job Developer/Industry Placement Specialist

“My mother has consistently been my source of inspiration and a guiding light. Every day, she motivates me to accept myself fully and strive for continuous personal growth, enabling me to contribute sincerely and wholeheartedly whenever the opportunity arises.”

  1. Tell us about yourself.
    My name is Ankita, and I am from one of the culturally richest countries of the world, India. I embarked on a journey to Windsor as an International Student, beginning my Canadian experience in 2018. Currently, I serve as a Job Developer at WEST, where I interact with job seekers from diverse educational and experiential backgrounds daily. My passion lies in guiding and motivating my clients to pursue careers they’re passionate about. One of my favourite reads is ‘The Power of Different,’ which delves into how cognitive diversity drives genius work and create successful individuals. Outside of work, I adore spending time with my five adorable pets – two dogs and three cats – who bring immense joy to my life. I love to travel and always seek out unique experiences. I find solace in swimming for relaxation on weekends.
  2. What does WEST mean to you?
    WEST serves as a dynamic platform empowering job seekers with vital resources for self-education, networking, and embarking on their employment journey. It’s a catalyst for not only fostering individuality but also inculcate an impactful representation for women in the workforce by breaking down barriers to employment and guiding them towards meaningful employment opportunities. The comprehensive approach to helping clients with addressing unemployment challenges is what makes WEST a powerful platform in my view. My association with WEST has encouraged me to establish a resilient community foundation that not only fosters individual growth but also enhances market adaptability and sustainability.
  3. In your experience, what are some of the key challenges faced by participants, and how does WEST effectively address them?
    The key challenges encountered by participants at WEST are diverse and contingent upon numerous factors. Some of these include:

    • The challenge of inadequate financial resources to fulfill mandatory skills certification demanded by employers is mitigated through pre- and post-employment financial assistance programs. These initiatives empower participants to acquire essential competencies, transforming them into competitive candidates in the job market.
    • The occupational stigma poses a significant social barrier to the job readiness of candidates, hindering their financial stability. This challenge is addressed by creating a platform that fosters direct engagement between participants and employers, enabling the development of long-term career by understanding employer needs.
    • Educational Equivalency is also a major barrier for Immigrant for various skilled professions which is addressed by facilitating interactive training sessions through skilled trade workshops and helping candidates avail grants to continue education for skilled professions.
    • Building a professional network poses a significant challenge for newcomers, women and individuals who have been disconnected from the job market for an extended period which is addressed through robust training and work placement services, empowering participants to establish connections and strengthen their foothold in the job market.
  4. Reflecting on your journey with WEST, what’s one significant lesson or insight you’ve gained that you’d like to share with others?
    Working at WEST has taught me a lesson in the significance of self-reflection. Engaging with candidates and assisting them in exploring their career objectives, strengths and weaknesses, training needs, and passions has been incredibly enlightening. This experience has not only empowered me to guide them on their employment path but has also served as a source of personal motivation, driving me to strive for improvement each day.
  5. Is there any woman that has inspired you or continues to inspire you?
    My mother has consistently been my source of inspiration and a guiding light since I set out on my journey for success. She has achieved remarkable success both professionally and personally, imparting to me the invaluable lesson of maintaining a balance in life. Every day, she motivates me to accept myself fully and strive for continuous personal growth, enabling me to contribute sincerely and wholeheartedly whenever the opportunity arises.
Sep 13
Maria Ford Conliffe

Maria Ford Conliffe

By Faces of WEST

Faces of WEST

Maria Ford Conliffe

Maria Ford Conliffe

WEST Board – Past Member

“Trust that everything that is happening is working together for your good (including setbacks and challenges).”

  1. Tell us about yourself.
    I consider Windsor my hometown. With proud Canadian heritage from the 1850s, I grew up on the west end. I attended Marlborough Public School and J.L. Forster Secondary School. In the mid-70s I moved to Toronto and attended George Brown College and Ryerson Polytech. After college, I moved back to Windsor east. I commuted to Detroit to work and attended Wayne State University and Marygrove College in Detroit receiving a B.S. in Business, M.A. in Education, and M.A. in Human Resources Management. Now, I am living in Farmington Hills, Michigan with my husband, Darryl, and Cockapoo, Gromit. I enjoyed 30 years+ career as a Human Resources Manager with Ford Motor Company World Headquarters in Dearborn, Michigan.I love to travel the world and have visited 5 continents and 22 countries. One of my favorite books is Love in the Time of Cholera by Gabriel Garcia Marquez. I find dancing exhilarating!
  2. What does WEST mean to you?
    WEST has been a vehicle for me to share my skills and wisdom to young women who are trying to advance in life. I am impressed by the access to the vast educational program offerings, experiences and opportunities WEST provides. WEST uniquely serves a segment of the population of women who need help in navigating processes of life in a variety of ways. Examples include basic life skills that we take for granted like language skills, opening a bank account, taking a bus, knowing where to purchase clothing, job seeking skills, and awareness of programs available to newcomers, etc.
    I am also impressed by the number and caliber of supporters who help mentor participants and fund the mission.
    I have met phenomenal WEST staff and board members for whom I have much respect and I hope to be my friends for life!
    A bonus for me is that two of my young family members were able to utilize WEST programs, and for their growth as a result, I am forever grateful.
  3. What motivated you to get involved with WEST, and how has it impacted your life?
    I was introduced to WEST by Irene Moore Davis who was, at the time, President of my local chapter’s sorority Psi Delta Omega of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Irene was instrumental in our group donating clothing to the back to work program at WEST. By participating in that program, I met Rose Anguiano-Hurst. After attending the International Women’s Day Gala in 2015, I inquired about volunteer opportunities. The rest is history. I wanted to positively influence and support the mission of WEST. I wanted to be a part of something greater than me to share my skills in Human Resources and life experiences to impact young women. Giving back to my community by sharing my knowledge through workshop leader in both the LEAD and Empowering Women for Employment programs has fostered my growth significantly. It is intrinsically satisfying knowing that I have influenced at least one person who will exponentially influence others in a positive way.
  4. What advice do you have for women striving to achieve their dreams?
    My advice for women striving to achieve their dreams is to:

    • Never give up.
    • Visualize success.
    • Start your day with positive affirmations/prayer.
    • Set realistic goals, write them down and check them off as you achieve them.
    • Trust that everything that is happening is working together for your good (including setbacks and challenges).
    • Remember nobody is perfect.
    • Start each day with a clean slate.
    • Treat everyone you meet with dignity and respect. You never know who can help you.
    • Know that life is a journey…enjoy it!
  5. Can you share a memorable moment or achievement during your time at WEST that has been meaningful to you?
    When I conducted a workshop or participated in mock interview sessions and someone told me afterwords that something I said or did helped their understanding, facilitated an “Aha” moment for them or they looked at something with a different perspective…those moments were meaningful to me and affirmed that I was actually having an impact. There is no other feeling like that.
Sep 13
Jessica Watson

Jessica Watson

By Faces of WEST

Faces of WEST

Jessica Watson

Jessica Watson

WEST Board – Member

Never give up on being the best version of you. Live, learn, and grow! Believe that if you want to be it, you can achieve it!”

  1. Tell us about yourself. 
    I have been labeled an influencer. I am married with a large, blended family and grandchildren. I have been blessed to have given birth twice and my son and daughter have been my strength and purpose of living a meaningful and influential life thus far. My husband encourages me daily to believe in myself, and his compliments are my empowerment. I am a 20+ year municipal government employee, currently the Secretary-Treasurer, Committee of Adjustment with the City of Windsor. My passion is truly in travelling, and those who know me can attest I don’t sit still for too long! The world is filled with so much awe – each time I see a new part of it, I crave more! My favourite book is ” In the Meantime: Finding Yourself and The Love You Want” by Iyanla Vanzant – I read it in my 20’s and never lost touch with all it taught me. I recently bought the book again and looking forward to reading it again (now in my 40’s), it will be interesting to see if my perspectives and purposes have changed in the past 20 years. One thing I valued from her book is we cannot draw to ourselves more than we think we are worth. The only way to get what we really want is to let go of what we don’t. Those lessons alone are priceless!
  2. What does WEST mean to you?
    WEST to me has more than just a “meaning”. Being part of WEST Board of Directors, reminds me that as a young girl I may not have had the ability to make independent choices for myself based on gender bias, but as a woman it empowers me to know that each women has a say in their future, and we can provide them with amazing programs, leadership, and mentors to encourage their journey. With WEST, I am part of an organization that is providing ALL women an opportunity to have ownership over their own independence. WEST fosters confidence building, and inspires personal growth, which is a dynamic movement for revolutionizing all women to be the “her-oes” they were born to be.
  3. What motivated you to get involved with WEST, and how has it impacted your life?
    Getting involved with WEST has matured me personally and professionally! I joined the Board to be part of a movement I feel inspires, and encourages women to be who they want, and not what society dictates them the “norm” should be. WEST promotes equality and helps distinguish the meaning of being who YOU are born to be!
  4. In your opinion, what sets WEST apart in its approach to supporting women in the community?
    WEST supports all women, no matter their age, background, religion or mission. We break barriers! WEST’s leadership, programs and partnerships help shape the organizations mission and values. Our recognition alone for the amazing programs we offer, sets us apart from others. We are a movement that continues to set our standards above others, and our clients participation with their success stories continues to prove it.
  5. Reflecting on your journey with WEST, what’s one significant lesson or insight you’ve gained that you’d like to share with others?
    I’ve learned that we all are a piece of this big puzzle of life and knowing that I can contribute to the big picture as a small piece, makes me feel a sense of belonging and confidently doing my part to empower. WEST truly embraces the difference it makes in women’s lives and in return, we individually are strengthened.
  6. What advice do you have for women striving to achieve their dreams?
    Never give up on being the best version of you. Live, learn, and grow! Believe that if you want to be it, you can achieve it!
  7. Is there any woman that has inspired you or continues to inspires you?
    EVERY woman I meet is an inspiration in my life, no matter how big or small their accomplishments are. I feel that if you are still living, your purpose is not finished! We can always re-write our chapters, and our stories deserve to be shared. Every women, everywhere, has a story worth sharing.
  8. What are some challenges you’ve faced in your journey, and how have you overcome them?
    In my journey I have faced discrimination, and confused that with failure! I realized through faith and perseverance and constant reminders, that I matter! I realized, these minor setbacks at the time were actually “set-ups” for what was to come. I am thankful I never gave up, I only got better! I had to go thru every challenge I needed to, in order to get to this moment now. Reflection!
  9. Can you share a memorable moment or achievement during your time at WEST that has been meaningful to you?
    While serving on the Board, I didn’t realize my involvement timelapse, only my contributions. Recently I received the news that I am going to be recognized by receiving an Ontario Volunteer Service Award from the Province for my 5 years with the Board. This is such and honour, and a reminder to me that time truly flies when you are enjoying what you are doing! I am grateful!
  10. How does WEST ensure that its programs remain responsive to the evolving needs of participants and the community?
    WEST connects, WEST communicates, and WEST responds. WEST recognizes what is needed in the community and collectively works endlessly to make a difference. WEST promotes, encourages, empowers and stays committed to it’s core values and mission with determination. By building great partnerships, WEST truly is it’s own success story. We build on our mission each day, and the value it provides to our participants is evident we are making great strides for women every day to achieve the greatness within them. We are creating stronger women, and by doing so, we are impacting the future generation of women – in the end the world benefits from our mission today for a greater tomorrow!
Sep 12
Patti France

Dr. Patricia France

By Faces of WEST

Faces of WEST

Patti France

Dr. Patricia France

St. Clair College – Past President

“I think that caring deeply about something empowers you to have a voice and to use your voice to influence it.”

  1. Tell us about yourself. 
    I’m Patti France. As of June of 2024, I will be the retired President of St. Clair College, having worked there for over 37 years – the past nine as President. I’m certainly passionate about my family, and I’m excited that my retirement will give me much more time to spend with them, especially my grandson. Some people find my taste in TV shows a bit odd, because I’ll flip between Hallmark movies – especially Christmas ones, because I like to watch them for decorating ideas – and a wild, action-packed series like “Vikings”. I suppose the most widely told “fun fact” about me was that when I was named as St. Clair’s President in 2015, I was then – as far as we could tell – the only college President in Canada whose original postsecondary credential had actually been earned within that educational system (as opposed to a university degree).
  2. What does WEST mean to you?
    To me, WEST means the gift of unlimited opportunity. I have dealt with the organization chiefly through its educational component, as St. Clair has, for many years, hosted groups of WEST clients in skilled trades training programs – really difficult, physically demanding, and non-gender-traditional programs such as precision metal cutting and CNC industrial-mechanical millwright. These are life-changing, life-bettering careers for the women involved, and their families too. It has been an honour, as an educator and a woman, to have worked with WEST to provide these opportunities.
  3. In your opinion, what sets WEST apart in its approach to supporting women in the community?
    WEST, in my mind, is remarkable for its comprehensiveness. It supports all aspects of its clientele’s needs and development: personal, family, social, health and wellness, economic, employment. Especially in the case of the many new immigrants that it works with, the organization knows that a great deal of supportive groundwork must be put in place before education, job-training and job-placement can be effectively pursued, and it does all of that in such a capable and caring manner.
  4. Is there any woman that has inspired you or continues to inspire you?
    I’ve had the pleasure of speaking at several of WEST’s International Women’s Day banquets, and I’ve made a comment at those that I will repeat here: As educators, we’re supposed to be the people who are inspiring our students. But, in the case of WEST’s clients, I’ve found that the relationship has been reversed: they have constantly impressed and inspired me. In contrast to my admittedly comfortable life as a born-in-Canada citizen, the personal stories of many of WEST’s immigrant clients involve such tremendous courage and sacrifice that I have been left in awe of them.
  5. What empowers you?
    This may sound simplistic, but I think that caring deeply about something empowers you to have a voice and to use your voice to influence it. I care deeply about the success of the generation that follows ours, so I became an educator to try to enable their success. I care deeply that fellow women can and should realize the same degree of ambition that I have throughout my life, so I try to deliver messages of positivity whenever I can. I care deeply about the well-being of my community, so if I’m asked to lend my support to a cause or my expertise to an organization’s board, I will do that.
Close Menu