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Niagara College Community Employment Services 905-641-2252 ext 4670

Leader Spotlight with Chelsea D’Amico

Chelsea D'Amico - Meridian Credit Union

Chelsea D’Amico – Meridian Credit Union

Chelsea D’Amico – Retail Delivery Administration, Sales, Meridian Credit Union

Chelsea was born and raised in the Niagara Region. As a proud Member of the Meridian Credit Union team for over 10 years, she was originally drawn to the organization because of its strong commitment to local communities across Ontario, specifically Niagara. She enjoys volunteer work and acting as an ambassador of the Meridian brand.

Chelsea is a graduate of the University of Western Ontario where she earned an Honours Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature. She continues to be an avid reader and loves to learn. Additionally, in her spare time, Chelsea can be found on the links working on her golf game, in the kitchen trying new recipes, attending concerts or travelling with friends.

 


 

How do you define community leadership?

“If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more,
do more and become more, you are a Leader.”

                                                                                         – John Quincy Adams

 

Why are you personally motivated to explore community leadership?

Community Leadership is an opportunity to embody the values of an entire community everyday, in everything you do. I am motivated to explore community leadership because I want to promote growth in the community while preserving the safe, friendly atmosphere I grew up admiring.

 

What, in your view, is the most significant issue/opportunity facing our community? Why?

In my opinion, the most significant issue facing the Niagara community is workforce planning and job opportunity. It is imperative that we keep young talent in Niagara. With Brock University and Niagara College producing thousands of graduates each year, many of whom want to stay in Niagara and build their lives, it is important that they are able to find meaningful, challenging careers.

 

How you would go about tackling the issue?

In an effort to tackle this issue, I would look to partner with the two above mentioned institutions and local businesses to create a job shadow program. Students who have a co-op component to their programs have the opportunity to enter the workforce, network and gain relevant work experience, however, those who do not often graduate and don’t know where to being. A job shadow program would allow students to see what’s out there for approximately one or two days a month while maintaining their full-time school schedule. It helps build a pipeline for future employers and provides students with valuable contacts and work experience.

 

In your view, what’s the most important attribute of a leader?

While many leaders have their own unique style and qualities, there are certain attributes that EVERY effective leader shares. They are approachable, transparent and supportive. They have the ability to push back or question things when necessary. A leader can build and maintain relationships with partners and have the ability to see other’s strengths and cultivate them (even at times when they don’t see these strengths in themselves).

 

“… there are certain attributes that
EVERY effective leader shares 

 

What individual attributes do you hope to develop or expand upon?

 I hope to develop all the above mentioned qualities, however most importantly I want to develop my coaching/ mentoring skills.

 


 

January 11th, 2019