Education: Master of public administration, American University (2010); bachelor of arts, international affairs, the George Washington University (2008)
Biggest obstacle overcome: Moving to Canada two-and-a-half years ago from the United States. After applying for dozens and dozens of jobs, the only offer I received was to do temporary data entry for Cornerstone Housing for Women, an organization that provides safe shelter for homeless women in Ottawa. It turned out to be the best thing that could have happened. I went on to found and chair Cornerstone’s Young Professionals Advisory Board and now sit on the board of directors. It was a wonderful reminder that great opportunities can come when you keep an open mind.
Biggest influence: My younger brother has an intellectual disability. Throughout our lives, I have seen him struggle to communicate, work and make friends. He has taught me an incredible amount about grace and patience.
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World Junior Championships set to boost Ottawa’s economy and global reputation
The World Junior Championships will kick off in Ottawa in December, bringing tens of millions of dollars of economic activity to the city, as well as a chance for local
The value of an Algonquin College degree: Experiential learning, taught by industry experts
Zaahra Mehsen was three years into a biology degree at a local university when she realized she wanted to take a different path. “I realized that it’s not my thing,”
Most important lesson I’ve learned in business: Raise your hand even if you think you’re not quite qualified and trust in your ability to learn quickly and find the right mentors to help you grow.
Advice I’d give the younger me: Don’t be afraid of being the dumbest person in the room – if you’re the dumbest person in the room, you’re in the right room.
