It will be a tougher road than usual for Quesnel’s 2021 Ambassador candidates.
The seven candidates are vying to become one of three representatives of Quesnel, attending events and volunteering around the community. Quesnel city council got a chance to meet the candidates during their March 24 virtual meeting.
Before the meeting the candidates met with the 2020 ambassadors and were given sashes by their sponsors.
“We want to thank the three of you for taking on the role of ambassadors in probably one of the most challenging situations we’ve had to face as a society and for the program,” Quesnel Mayor Bob Simpson said to the 2020 ambassadors.
Sarah: “Even though we can’t do it in person, it’s still nice to be able to formally recognize the candidates are the candidates,” 2020 ambassador Sarah Fottit said. “I can’t wait to see where the candidates go and how they grow this year.”
Fottit’s thoughts were echoed by the two other 2020 ambassadors, Beth Matiolli and Jadacia Barker.
READ MORE: Quesnel’s new Ambassadors crowned
Rose Scott runs the program and said despite the challenges related to COVID-19, the ambassador program has stayed strong.
“Having seven candidates this year shows our ambassadors stood up for the qualities of the program,” she said. “The program really focuses on building resilience. What I continue to say over and over again is we are having a lot of opportunities to practice resilience this year.”
Rose added she hopes the program installs a lifetime of volunteerism in its participants.
According to the ambassador’s website, the first goal of the program is to build leadership skills and improve public speaking.
“During the 6 month program candidates write and perform expressive speeches, learn financial management, are given lessons and opportunities to demonstrate appropriate social etiquette, and become immersed in many volunteer opportunities,” the website reads. “Lifetime friendships are made in this program as they connect through common interests in the community.”
The 2021 candidates are Olivia van den Elzen, sponsored by William Lacy Real Estate, Bree-Anna McCarthy sponsored by Advanced Skin and Laser, Jaeana Dumais sponsored by Pam Devereuz Century 21, Naylene Runge sponsored by Rotary Club of Quesnel, Jessie Johal sponsored by West Quesnel Business Association, Jasmyn Sterling sponsored by Green River Gold Corporation and Claire Lejins sponsored by Attitude South.
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