What was your previous (or current other) career, training or background?
Shania is currently a student in the McMaster Doctoral (PhD) Global Health Program. In addition, she has extensive experience in healthcare, communications, marketing, teaching and artist design.
Anya is a high school senior at Stouffville District Secondary School and aspires to have her own veterinary clinic one day. Anya was honoured with the 2021 #AerieREAL Changemaker award and both sisters were selected as Community Champions by Tangerine in December 2021.
What change are you seeking to create through this initiative?
The foundation of The Canadian Courage Project is to increase the awareness of the United Nations 17 Sustainable development goals through our “How to Make Change in Your Community” workshop presented to secondary students across the country. Furthermore, we seek to provide increased support to vulnerable youth and their animal companions transitioning into independent housing.
The inspiration came from our Co-Founder Anya’s involvement with a local animal shelter, where she learned that an animal companion may be the only form of support one may have. At The Canadian Courage Project, we recognize the insurmountable challenges unstable housing can have on youth and the amount of courage it takes to face these challenges, especially when they have to decide between feeding themselves or their animal. We work with youth who are navigating difficult circumstances and provide them with the tools to support their mental wellbeing and empower them with courage when they need it the most.
What does the concept of ‘the greater good’ mean to you?
The greater good is based on the idea that as a community we can implement equitable programming, services, and support to push humanity forward. Working in collaboration with one another, and grounding our “why” in being of service to others. Focusing on enhancing equity, diversity and inclusion in all aspects of our globalized world today.
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