What’s your idea of happiness, and what makes you most uneasy? 

A walk-and-talk with a good friend, namely my daughter, coffee in hand, and no time pressure—ideally with some sunshine and no emails! 

Uneasy? Bureaucracy, bad coffee, and any meeting titled “just a quick one.” 

What do you fear most? 

Running out of milk when I’ve just made the tea. 

(Also, any system that leaves people unheard or unsupported.) 

Which person, past or present, do you most relate to and admire? 

Brené Brown. Her work on vulnerability, courage, and authentic leadership speaks right to the heart of community work. She’s fearless about being real, and she makes empathy a superpower—something I try to bring into every space I work in. 

What traits do you most loathe in yourself and others? 

In myself: the tendency to say “yes” when I probably should say “let me think about it.” 

In others, dismissiveness. Listening is underrated. 

What’s your most embarrassing moment or regret? 

Calling someone by the wrong name for months. They were too polite to correct me—and I was mortified when I found out. We laugh about it now (thankfully). 

What’s your most unappealing habit or indulgence? 

Putting off going to bed in favour of scrolling through houses I’ll never buy on property websites. 

Also, “just one” square of chocolate. (It never is.) 

What do you always carry and what vehicle do you drive? 

Always: tissues, a pen, and some kind of snack (I’m a mom – it’s habit). 

I drive a practical, no-fuss family car—slightly crumb-filled but dependable! 

Where and when have you been happiest? 

Around my kitchen table with my family and friends. 

Also—randomly—at a community event that just clicked. People, purpose, and a shared sense of belonging. 

What do you find depressing or overrated? 

Negativity dressed up as “realism.” 

Also, avocado toast. It’s fine, but let’s not get carried away. 

How do you unwind or deal with solitude? 

Walking helps. And coffee with friends. I find solitude in company more than silence—and that’s okay. 

What’s your fantasy or biggest journey? 

A long trip through Italy—with food, history, and plenty of gelato. 

Though honestly, the biggest journey is probably raising four young adults! 

What would your motto be? 

“Progress over perfection.” 

What’s your favourite smell, word, book, and building? 

Smell: fresh coffee or bread baking. 

Word: “possibility and kindness.” 

Book: Anything Maeve Binchey…. An old one like ‘Circle of Friends’ 

Building: Any Family Resource Centre—it’s not about the architecture, it’s the energy. 

What keeps you awake at night? 

To-do lists, missing socks, and the state of the world. 

Also: wondering if I replied to that message I definitely read but maybe forgot to answer… 

What’s your life motto or lesson learned? 

People first. Always. The rest will follow. 

Favourite Joke: 

Why did the scarecrow win an award? 

Because he was outstanding in his field—just like any good community worker! 

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