Board of Directors edition
At DIVERSEcity, we often share the incredible stories of the newcomers and diverse community members who we support as they build their life in Canada. Behind the scenes, the people of DIVERSEcity, many of whom are immigrants themselves, have their own lived experiences to share. DIVERSEcity would not be the community-building, charitable organization it is without the dedication and passion of our amazing employees and volunteers, who have shown us what resilience means during this ongoing pandemic.
This week’s “People of DIVERSEcity” spotlight is a Board of Directors’ member and Vice President of Students and Community Development at Vancouver Community College, Jane Jae-Kyung Shin. Originally from South Korea, Jane’s parents immigrated to Canada for its education, diversity and sociopolitical values. Once they settled in Surrey, they became direct beneficiaries of DIVERSEcity programs. Years later, Jane is grateful to be able to give back to DIVERSEcity and all it does for new and settling Canadians.
Let’s learn more about Jane!
Tell us about the professional background/expertise that you bring to DIVERSEcity’s board.
As a former client of DIVERSEcity, I hope I bring a BIPOC perspective to the Board. Professionally, I am a public administrator in education and in politics. This experience may be of relevance for the organization’s strategic development and outreach.
What is one thing you wish everyone knew about DIVERSEcity?
I wish everyone knew that DIVERSEcity is an organization that empowers new and settling Canadians and it approaches that work with a demonstrated commitment for truth and reconciliation, JEDI (justice, equity, diversity and inclusion) and mental health and wellbeing.
Coffee or tea?
Black tea! Earl Grey more specifically. London, or more appropriately, Vancouver Fog all the way, please.
What’s your favourite season and why?
Winter. It’s not everyone’s idea of fun, but I actually love cold rainy nights to cozy up at home in a big sweater with a hot cup of tea and a good book by the fireplace.
Dogs or cats?
Dogs! My five-year-old Corgi girl, Mylo, and two-year-old chihuahua girl, Toro.
Anything else you’d like to add?
They say it takes a village to raise a child. The same can be said for a healthy community — it takes a village of active, caring and participating members — and DIVERSEcity is exactly where that work happens. A big thank you to everyone involved!
Read more “People of DIVERSEcity” stories, shared weekly this fall and winter 2021–2022.