This series is dedicated to introducing and celebrating the participants of the ACL+ 2021 program. Each week, we will focus on one of our leaders; sharing a little bit about them and what motivates them to explore community leadership in Niagara.
Alyson Montovani-Ozaki is a Client Services Coordinator at St. John Ambulance Niagara Falls, where she coordinates health and safety training, including First Aid and CPR, Mental Health First Aid and Joint Health and Safety Training. Alyson grew up in the Niagara Region but moved to Windsor to pursue her bachelor’s degree at the University of Windsor. After several years working in Toronto and abroad, Alyson returned to the Niagara Region to continue her career.
Alyson joined Toastmasters to improve her public speaking and meeting management skills. While a member of the group, Alyson fulfilled various volunteer positions, including Area Director.
Alyson enjoys hiking with her family, learning Japanese, travelling, reading and facilitating a monthly book club discussion.
Exploring civic leadership has allowed me to grow personally and see how I can help others reach their goals. I am continually motivated to explore civic leadership because I want to help build a supportive and giving community. I believe that anyone can make a difference; they just need to realize their value. I want to use the tools and skills I have or can develop to have a positive impact on my community.
As the real estate market in Niagara is going through a significant boom, finding affordable housing is becoming increasingly problematic. Access to safe and affordable housing is one of our most basic needs. Without that, we are setting up vulnerable populations to be forced to accept living situations that are not ideal. Especially now during the pandemic, when unemployment figures have increased significantly, we need to find ways to support and protect those in precarious living situations.
I hope to further develop my ability to create a collaborative environment that allows my team the time, space and inspiration to build on their own skills and interests. I hope to become an inspirational leader who provides the opportunity for my team to work together to achieve our common goals.