I hold several degrees, diplomas, and certifications, including a Master of Arts in Sociology from McMaster University. After working in the health care field for 17 years, I switched professions to pursue work in the co-operative housing sector as I firmly believe in the importance of housing. After almost 7 years managing housing co-ops in the Central Ontario region, I decided to begin a new journey working with the Social Planning & Research Council of Hamilton as the executive assistant to the executive director.As a big proponent of community engagement and education, I spend a great deal of time volunteering. I am the president of a local housing co-operative and am vice-president of the Golden Horseshoe Co-operative Housing Federation. I am also pursuing my Accredited Member of the Institute of Housing Management (AIHM) certification. I enjoy sharing knowledge and as a result, I am an active instructor, workshop developer, workshop facilitator, mentor (to new instructors), consultant, and neutral chairperson who sits on CHF Canada's National Education Committee.Two other passions of mine are children and animals. As such, in my spare time, I enjoy working on projects that combine the two. My first book, "Frank the Fish Finds His Forever Home", is centered around a plucky betta fish which launched November 18, 2021. The second book, "Frank the Fish Finds a Friend", launched February 27, 2023. Both books have accompanying teacher's guides and merchandise line (available at www.frankthefish.ca). There will be much more to follow in the book series including an activity book and many more adventures of Frank the Fish and his Friends! I believe kindness can change the world and as such, a portion of all proceeds from every book is donated to a non-profit charity supporting the theme of each book.