Reflecting on a transformative journey from early volunteerism to global advocacy, this final chapter of 'Peaks for a Purpose' explores the multifaceted approach to combating gender inequality and empowering communities in the face of disaster.
In the fifth and final part of my Beauty with a Purpose series, we come full circle, reflecting on a journey that has been both deeply personal and expansively impactful. It all began with my early experiences volunteering at Lethbridge's Interfaith Food Bank alongside my grandmother when I was just 16. There, I learned invaluable lessons about community service, volunteerism, and the profound sense of belonging and purpose that can come from helping those in need. These early lessons in giving back laid the groundwork for what would become a lifelong commitment to making a difference.
Fast forward to my return to Mexico City, amidst the aftermath of a devastating level 5 hurricane that struck the coast of Acapulco. Fueled by a desire to help and awareness of potential language barriers, I was encouraged by my friend and mentor from the Pageant Group Canada team, Arturo Gallo, to volunteer with Red Cross Mexico. Despite my initial nervousness about my lack of fluency in Spanish, I found that the skills I had honed years ago at the food bank were exactly what was needed.
While I sorted donations to their storage places, hauled water from trucks to donation piles, received donations from the drive-by collection station or created food hampers, care packages or hygiene boxes, I was reminded that the ability to give back transcends language barriers and borders. People from all walks of life were volunteering beside me at Cruz Roja, some from large companies, some individuals, both old and young, and some people who had slept on the street that night; all with a shared purpose to help those in need in Acapulco. It felt like societal barriers had been erased, no matter who you were, how much money you had or what language you spoke no longer mattered because we were connected through our hearts and our compassion for those suffering.
Despite our united efforts to mitigate the disaster, taking special care to assemble packages for children and mothers with powdered milk and diapers, it was a poignant reminder that women and children are disproportionately affected by disasters; being 14 times more likely to face death in such situations. By focusing my efforts on creating food hampers and hygiene kits specifically designed to assist women and children affected by the tragedy, I was able to bring the essence of my Beauty with a Purpose project, "Peaks for a Purpose," full circle. The project, which began with a focus on early education to disrupt gender-based violence and build a foundation for equality, had now expanded to include disaster relief efforts, highlighting the multifaceted nature of gender inequality and the complex solutions it requires.
"Peaks for a Purpose" reflects not only my evolution over the years but also the understanding that issues like gender inequality and gender-based violence demand comprehensive solutions. From raising awareness and funds for victims of violence to hosting solo travel safety and self-defence classes to speaking engagements for a global reach, and finally, focusing on disaster relief, each phase of the project has tackled a different aspect of inequality.
As I close this chapter of my journey, I am reminded of the power of our voices and the impact we can make when we lead with our hearts and through our purpose. Inspired by Malala Yousafzai's words, "When the world is silent, even one voice becomes powerful," I hope my story and mission inspire others to become champions for change. Together, using our skills, voices, and hearts, we can create a world where equality and safety prevail.
Through this endeavour, Beauty With a Purpose has taught me that the most true way to change the world is to embody the change we wish to see because just as injustice minds no borders or barriers nor must our ability to make a positive impact. As this series concludes, I am filled with gratitude for the journey and excited for the continued work ahead. Together, we can navigate the peaks and valleys of life, forging paths of empowerment and resilience for ourselves and those around us.
