Working at the Region of Waterloo I had the opportunity to hold multiple positions in various departments such as; 1. Social Services 2. Grand River Transit 3. Regional Clerk’s Office 4. The Ken Seiling Waterloo Region Museum 5. Transportation 6. Public Health This has given me a strong working knowledge of the Region, its services and responsibilities, organizational structure, regulations, and department programs. I have a unique perspective as someone who worked within the organization paired with being a life long resident of the Region. I have completed the Municipal Administration Program through the Association of Municipal Managers, Clerks and Treasurers of Ontario, and have a solid foundation in Project and Program Administration specific to the Region of Waterloo. During my time at the Region I became involved with my union, CUPE 1883. It was here, my passion for the labour movement began. I learned about the hard work of those before me that afforded me the opportunities I had, and the importance to continue on with that work so all workers now and in the future have access to safe workplaces and gainful employment. I became the Co-Chair of the Mobilization Committee, and was involved with the Waterloo Region Labour Council. I had the opportunity to attend training with CUPE and the Canadian Labour Congress where I met and learned from many other workers from across the country. I could see that the issues we face in our community are issues facing many communities nationwide, like precarious work and the deconstruction of valuable public services.