My name is Olivia, and I am the Youth Program Supervisor for the Youth Transitions Program. I have an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice and Public Policy from the University of Guelph and I am very passionate about Youth Justice. My love for working with at-risk youth began in the summer of 2021. I landed a job working with at-risk youth living in low-income housing complexes. I gained incredible insight into the many external and internal factors related to the social determinants of health and youth development. The relationships that I had built with these vulnerable youth inspired me to continue working with diverse populations, which is why I became involved with the Youth Transitions Program. My education mixed with my employment experiences have pushed me to pursue this type of work and I have been fortunate enough to meet so many remarkable youths that continue to inspire me.

My past employment experiences with the YMCA as an Assistant Camp Director and Childcare Worker also contributed to my interest in this program. I have always felt respected and appreciated while working for the Y and the incredibly positive work culture has largely contributed to why I chose to return as a Y employee. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my golden retriever Henry and kickboxing!

What makes YTP special is that we look at the whole person. We take a holistic and youth-centred approach to understanding where the youth is coming from and meeting them where they are at. We encourage resiliency through a strength-based approach as we see potential and endless possibilities for each youth.

What motivates me to do this kind of work is the success stories that I have been fortunate enough to witness throughout my time working with youth. I have seen youth who were greatly at risk of entering the Criminal Justice system, turn their life around and choose a more positive life path. One of the reasons behind these success stories is because of the help they received from organisations and services that care about the well-being of youth. I like seeing the impact of my work and working with vulnerable youth is one of the most rewarding jobs out there. The amazing impact I have on others while in this role keeps me motivated and excited about what I do.