LEADERSHIP & PASSION

When I’ve spoken to leadership courses or answered questions about what it takes to be an effective leader, I say the most important quality is passion. My passion for our members, workers’ rights, hard work, strategic thinking, mobilization and direct action is what continues to inspire and guide me since the first time I got involved in AUPE as a young activist.

Of course, as president, there is an enormous responsibility to ensure that all the dedication and commitment required to lead the largest, most complex and diverse union in western Canada is co-ordinated strategically and with focus. I take that responsibility very seriously every single day. What guides me is passion for our union, what motivates me is the hard work needed to get the job done.

Nothing counts more in the role as your president than experience. To use every opportunity to grow and learn, and to put best practices into place to create stability and ensure smooth and responsive operations to support a mobilized and determined membership. This is what I bring to the table from decades of experience, including 16 years as your president.

I know what it takes to lead. It means being steadfast and strong in the face of adversity. Calm and confident during turmoil. Empathetic and compassionate in times of stress and uncertainty. Strategic and creative in the face of complexity and confusion; and inspiring and motivating when confronted by challenges.

It means being the passionate, focused and dedicated leader you deserve.