Petrel Liu started a club in her school called Leaders of Change; they volunteer as a group every month. I interviewed her this month to learn more about some of the amazing work she does for our community.
What inspires you to volunteer?
This summer, I signed up to volunteer with the Mustard Seed and I met some inspiring people with unique stories. One of the most interesting things that I learned through meeting these people is that the assumption is homeless people do not work; I met people who do work only their job doesn’t provide enough money to pay rent.
Who are some of the inspiring people you have met?
I met a man who fixes trailers and he explained how it didn’t pay enough money to pay for a home because one trailer provides him with $90. I met a top CEO of a company and his wife and children died in an accident. He couldn’t focus on his job and had to leave his house. This is when he came to the Mustard Seed.
What skills do you have made you approachable?
I like to talk to people and hear their perspective. I would say I am friendly.
How did you start volunteering at the Mustard Seed?
I started volunteering individually by contacting them myself. I wanted to expand further and this is when I brought my friends from a club in my school that I started called Leaders of Change. We volunteer every month as a group.
How do you inspire others?
I gathered all the donations and took it to the women’s shelter and expanded this to encourage my school to give back.
How do you raise money?
We host bake sales for all the activities to fundraise.
What are some challenges?
One of the biggest challenges is that some members are random participants versus active participants. It also is hard to balance both IB and my extracurricular activities but I use my time wisely and have great scheduling skills.
What volunteer activities will you do in the future?
I will be going to Costa Rica this summer to fundraise for a Turtle Conservation Program. I will be asking local companies for sponsorships to help with sustaining the Leaders of Change club. I will also host bake sales at Sobeys, CrossIron Mills and Costco.
What would be your word of advice to other youth?
Don’t be afraid to make change. If a project is too big, go for it and take a risk.
What is your favorite initiative through Leaders of Change?
When a girl from my school was diagnosed with cancer, many of the students at our school were shocked. We couldn’t believe that someone so close to us could be in this position. This is when we fundraised for the Cancer Foundation.
What are your hobbies?
I enjoy playing soccer and field hockey.
Where do you plan on attending university?
I plan on going to the University of Western Ontario to study Sciences.