Mentors

“The greatest investment we can make is in our youth, for their potential knows no bounds.” — Andréa Speranza.

From a youth once overlooked to a beacon of inspiration for young women and gender-diverse youth, Andréa nurtures the growth of empowered, community-minded leaders who catalyze positive change in our emergency services and our community. Her work fosters a profound sense of unity and shared purpose, reminding us that we are all in this together, working towards a brighter future.Andréa, one of the first female firefighters, has dedicated 30 years to the Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency, currently holding the supervisory role of Operations Captain. Nearly two decades ago, she founded this transformative Camp Courage program. She loves exercising, continuously learning, reading, and her little dog, Cooper.

Since beginning her career with Halifax Regional Police in 2005, Terra has primarily served in the patrol division, victim services, and the court section, accumulating invaluable experience in law enforcement. In addition to her career, Terra is happily married and a super proud mother of two wonderful kids, a role she cherishes deeply alongside her dedication to her profession.

Terra holds a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology from Saint Mary’s University, earned in 2004, and graduated from the Atlantic Police Academy in 2006, solidifying her commitment to the field.

A defining moment in Terra’s career occurred in 2019 when she received both the Chief’s Accommodation and the prestigious Life Saver Award. These recognitions were the result of Terra’s role as a first responder in a critical CPR incident, nominated by a fellow patrol officer. This experience further solidified her commitment to civil service and ignited a passion for inspiring youth to pursue careers in the first responder community.

Terra considers it a privilege to join this remarkable group of women dedicated to building a program encouraging youth to pursue first responder roles. Eagerly looking forward to contributing her expertise and unwavering commitment, Terra joins the Community Relations Position unit. In this role, she will enhance community engagement and safety in Halifax.

Vicky, hailing from rural Ottawa, has always harboured ambitions of shattering barriers in the aviation industry. From obtaining her glider pilot’s license at 16 to pursuing a college degree in Aviation Technology, Vicky’s determination has remained unshaken in a male-dominated field.

Currently, Vicky’s career takes her to the skies as a flight attendant with Air Canada, where she fearlessly responds to in-flight emergencies. During the pandemic, when grounded, she decided to broaden her horizons by becoming a volunteer firefighter with HRFE, harbouring dreams of transitioning to a full-time firefighting career.

As a firefighter mentor at Camp Courage, Vicky derives immense pride and emotional fulfillment, knowing that she plays a crucial role in nurturing resilient young women who are destined to make a positive impact on the world. Her journey is a testament to her unwavering commitment to breaking boundaries and empowering the next generation of strong women.

Mariah is a dedicated Advanced Care Paramedic with a passion for helping others, both in the field and behind the scenes at the Medical Communications Centre. Originally from Middleton, NS, she now calls Bedford home. With four years of experience serving communities across the West and Central Regions, she thrives in high-pressure environments where her skills and quick thinking make a difference.

Mariah is also a lifelong learner always striving to improve and evolve in her profession. She is a mentor and role model at Camp Courage, where she has been inspiring future first responders for four years. For her, the most powerful part of Camp is the strength and support felt the moment you walk through the doors—a place where confidence is built, and dreams take flight.

Mariah is adventurous and embraces every opportunity, including a once-in-a-lifetime experience playing a paramedic on a TV show alongside one of her celebrity crushes!

Born and raised in Nova Scotia, Alexis Wheeler has dedicated her life to serving her community through various roles in emergency services. Alexis began her career as a paramedic, where she spent five years providing critical care and support in high-pressure situations. Her passion for helping others led her to transition into firefighting, and for the past 2.5 years, she has been a valued member of the Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency (HRFE) team.

In addition to her professional commitments, Alexis is an active volunteer with the Dartmouth Community Fridge, an initiative aimed at supporting those in need by providing free access to food. This volunteer work highlights her unwavering commitment to her community and her desire to make a positive impact beyond her professional duties. Outside of her work and volunteer efforts, Alexis embraces an active and adventurous lifestyle. She enjoys hiking, camping, traveling, and working out, constantly seeking new experiences and challenges. Her diverse background and dedication to both her profession and community make her a remarkable and inspiring individual.

Christie, an experienced firefighter with a rich history of involvement with Camp Courage, hails from Hantsport, NS. Her journey began as a camper in 2013, followed by completing fire school at MUN in 2014, where she earned the prestigious Top Dog Award. With 12 years of volunteer firefighting experience across three different provinces, Christie recently achieved her long-awaited goal of joining Halifax Fire in 2023 after nine years of nationwide applications.

Christie’s passion for firefighting is matched by her dedication to mentoring young women. As a fire instructor, she believes that Camp Courage provides a vital pathway for young women to discover their motivations, inspirations, and sources of encouragement. She finds immense satisfaction in watching campers conquer their fears and step out of their comfort zones.

Eager to return as a mentor, Christie is committed to guiding the next generation of young women in finding their true selves and reaching their full potential. Her extensive experience, coupled with her passion for empowering others, makes her an inspiring role model and a valuable asset to any team.

Julia Stevens, a 2015 Camp Courage graduate, was deeply moved by her life-changing experience and, driven by gratitude, transitioned into a mentorship role in 2019, assuming the position of Social Media Manager. She also serves on the board of directors. Her transformative journey shifted her career aspiration from aspiring paramedic to pursuing a career as a firefighter. While currently an Administrative Coordinator, Julia remains committed to her dream of becoming a career firefighter. She actively volunteers with Station 17 in Cole Harbour, contributing to her community and showcasing her passion for helping others.

Jade Martin is dedicated to fostering mental fitness and emotional resilience among the youth in her community. Her commitment to this cause led to her recognition in the Nova Scotia House of Assembly, starting in 2010 and extending through to 2019, primarily through her work with the mental health organization “Mindset Matters” and various fitness and wellness ventures.

In addition to her professional pursuits, Jade is a devoted mother of two and actively serves as a core station volunteer firefighter. Her multifaceted approach to community well-being reflects her aspiration to inspire today’s youth to embody resilience, respect, and a relentless pursuit of personal growth—empowering them to become the best versions of themselves.

Olyvia Pineo hails from the charming town of East Hants, and her journey since graduating from Camp Courage in 2017 has been nothing short of inspiring. She embarked on a remarkable path, beginning as a volunteer firefighter and eventually becoming a primary care paramedic, now serving the community of Antigonish.

What sets Olyvia apart is her unwavering dedication to Camp Courage, where she has come full circle by returning each year as a devoted mentor. Her mission? To create a safe and inclusive haven where young females can explore the world of first responders.

In her role as a mentor, Olyvia’s commitment shines brightly as she imparts invaluable knowledge and fosters a profound sense of belonging among the next generation of responders. Her passion for empowering young minds is a testament to the enduring impact of Camp Courage. Olyvia Pineo’s journey continues to inspire and uplift those she serves.

Taylor Speirs, a dedicated volunteer firefighter with Halifax Regional Fire since 2021, serves as a Chiropractor in Dartmouth/Cole Harbour. Despite her thriving career, Taylor’s heart belongs to the fire service, and she aspires to transition into a career firefighter role in the future. Since joining the firefighting community, Taylor has earned certifications in Confined Space and Technical Rescue, Hazmat, and Advanced Fire Fighting with a focus on marine operations.

Taylor’s journey is fueled by her passion for serving her community and inspiring other young girls to believe in their limitless potential. She strives to be a living example that anyone can achieve their dreams when they set their mind to it.

Olivia’s journey into the fire service began when she graduated from Camp Courage in 2017. in 2018, she was awarded the camp’s inaugural Firefighting Bursary, created in memory of Halifax Regional Fire Services Divisional Commander Andrew Bednarz. This honour set the stage for her graduation from the Nova Scotia Firefighters School in 2019, where she earned her Level II Firefighter Certification—just the beginning of a growing list of certifications and accomplishments.

From 2019 to 2023, Olivia served as a dedicated volunteer with Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency before proudly transitioning into a full-time career firefighter with Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency. Her commitment to the fire service goes well beyond her station duties. She trains new volunteer recruits and shares her expertise across the province through instructing in marine safety, industrial hazards, and structural firefighting at Survival Systems Training.

Olivia’s pursuit of knowledge and excellence continues—she’s now a certified safety diver and a Helicopter Underwater Escape Breathing Apparatus (HUEBA) technician. She also volunteers with Halifax Search and Rescue, further expanding her capabilities in wilderness search operations and demonstrating her all-around dedication to community service.

Since 2019, Olivia has returned to Camp Courage as a mentor, where she plays a vital role in inspiring and guiding the next generation of firefighters. Her impressive path and unwavering dedication make her a powerful role model and a true asset to the emergency services community.

Karen, a proud native of the small French Acadian community of Meteghan nestled along the Southwestern shore of Nova Scotia, has dedicated her life to the field of paramedicine since 2001. Her extensive career has taken her to various places, including Annapolis, Yarmouth, Bridgetown, Milford, Truro, Sheet Harbour, and St. Bernard.

Currently, Karen serves as an Advanced Care Paramedic in her hometown of Meteghan. With over 22 years of experience, she remains deeply passionate about her work, finding fulfillment in making a positive impact on people’s lives every day.

What truly sets Karen apart is her genuine affection for the community she grew up in. She relishes the opportunity to serve her neighbours, bringing a sense of relief and comfort to those in need. Witnessing the relief on their faces when they see a familiar face in their time of need is a source of immense satisfaction.

Karen’s dedication extends beyond her paramedic duties as she imparts her love and knowledge to the young and eager campers during the paramedic days at Camp Courage. Her mentorship empowers and encourages these campers, providing them with a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Karen Comeau embodies the values of compassion, commitment, and community, leaving a lasting impact wherever she goes.

Jodi Tait has been a dedicated member of the emergency services for over a decade, accumulating numerous certifications and extensive experience.

Her passion for this field began in 2007 when she became a volunteer firefighter with the Kentville Volunteer Fire Department. This pivotal experience set her on the path to her ultimate career choice.

In 2018, Jodi was hired by Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency (HRFE) after excelling in a competitive selection process that saw over 2000 applicants. She was one of the top 20 candidates and one of only two females hired during that period.

Jodi’s educational background includes studies at Nova Scotia Community College, Acadia University, and the Nova Scotia Firefighters School. She has also served in the Canadian Armed Forces. Her professional experience is diverse, including roles as a project manager in restoration finish work, an evidence technician, and a fire service instructor.

Currently, Jodi serves as a career firefighter in operations with HRFE. In addition to her full-time role, she imparts her knowledge and experience to new recruits and volunteer firefighters as an instructor.

Jodi’s commitment to community service extends beyond her professional duties. She volunteers with organizations like Camp Courage and Techsploration, where she inspires and empowers others to explore their potential and embrace challenges. Her motto, “WE CAN DO ANYTHING AND WE CAN BE ANYTHING!” reflects her belief in the limitless potential of those she mentors.

Jodi Tait’s remarkable journey embodies the spirit of mentorship and empowerment, making her an invaluable asset to the emergency services community.

Emilie Rossignol, originally hailing from Ontario, embarked on her firefighting journey by attending a fire academy before making her way to Nova Scotia in 2019. Upon her arrival, she eagerly joined her local fire department as a volunteer firefighter. Her dedication and passion for firefighting led her to secure a position as a wildland firefighter with the Department of Natural Resources and Renewables.

Even as her career evolved, Emilie remained deeply committed to her roots as a structural firefighter, dedicating her free time to volunteer in this role. Her pursuit of excellence extends to continually expanding her knowledge, particularly in the unique challenges posed by forest fires. Emilie Rossignol’s firefighting journey reflects her unwavering dedication to the field and her determination to excel in every aspect of her chosen profession.

Brittany, an Advanced Care Paramedic hailing from Eskasoni First Nation, has made her home community the center of her impactful career, serving as a paramedic for the past four years.

What distinguishes Brittany is her unwavering commitment to spreading positivity and creating a safe haven for everyone she encounters. Her innate desire to assist others, both within and outside the ambulance, reflects her passion for learning and teaching.

Growing up in a Mi’kmaq community, Brittany has firsthand knowledge of the challenges individuals may face. This awareness fuels her dedication to making a difference.

Brittany’s role as a mentor at Camp Courage is a natural extension of her desire to inspire young individuals. Through her mentorship, she aims to empower youth, demonstrating that they have the ability to achieve their dreams, no matter the obstacles they may encounter. Brittany Poulette embodies the values of compassion, education, and empowerment, leaving a positive mark wherever she goes.

Emmalee hails from the resilient town of New Ross, NS. A graduate of Camp Courage in the summer of 2019, she has since returned as a mentor, driven by her unwavering commitment to helping others and her passion for first response.

Emmalee dedicates herself to her community as a first responder, wearing multiple hats as an EHS paramedic and a volunteer firefighter. In her precious moments of leisure, she finds joy in the company of her loyal furry companion, Oscar.

Emmalee’s journey began at Camp Courage with a burning desire to make a difference in the world of first response. Inspired by her mentors, she embarked on a career in paramedicine. Now, as a mentor herself, Emmalee aims to inspire young women by showcasing that anything is possible. Through unforgettable experiences at camp, she seeks to introduce them to the world of First Response.

For Emmalee, success lies in the ability to inspire even a single young camper to follow their dreams. Her dedication and passion continue to light the path for the next generation of aspiring first responders.

Deputy Sheriff Savannah Collins began her career with Sheriff Services in early 2012. Navigating a heavily male-dominated field was an uphill battle, but through dedication, a strong work ethic, and support from her late mentor, Deputy Sheriff Anita Kiely-Gower, she became a valued team member. In 2016, Savannah accepted a leadership role as Sergeant of the Halifax Provincial jurisdiction, where she oversaw prisoner management, site operations, and front-line staff support. Beyond her regular duties, she is an advocate for mental health awareness and assists others as a member of the provincial Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) team and the Sheriff Services peer support program.

Savannah comes from a Canadian Armed Forces background. Her parents, both combat veterans, instilled in her the values of firm but fair leadership. She credits her fortitude and resilience to the stoic teachings of her mother and father, who raised her to be a strong-willed, assertive woman. Growing up as a “military brat” in Geilenkirchen, Germany, she was privileged to experience a multitude of cultures, fostering a deep respect and appreciation for diversity from a young age.

Savannah’s husband, Robb Caldwell, is a firefighter with the Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency Service. She is grateful to have a partner who understands the stressors of being a first responder and provides her with advice and support. In her free time, Savannah is an impassioned equestrian, training in the hunter and jumper disciplines, with future goals of competing in the UK. When she is not with her equine companion, she enjoys riding motorcycles or relaxing with a book in the company of her cats, Calypso and Clark Gable II.

Savannah is excited to be a mentor for Camp Courage. She aims to help young minds build the confidence to overcome barriers, face their fears, and realize they can accomplish difficult tasks by stepping outside their comfort zones. “I’m very excited to be a mentor for Camp Courage. My goal is to help young minds build the confidence to bulldoze barriers, face their fears, and help them realize they can do hard things if they are willing to step outside of their comfort zone.”

Jayde Hodder hails from a small town just outside of Lunenburg, Nova Scotia. Her journey with Camp Courage began in 2013 when she attended as a camper. This experience planted the seeds of her future career in law enforcement and corrections.

Jayde pursued her passion for justice by obtaining a two-year diploma in Law Enforcement from Ravensberg College in September 2014. She furthered her education by graduating from Saint Mary’s University in May 2021 with a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in Criminology and double minoring in Sociology and Psychology.

Her professional career began as a Deputy Sheriff with Sheriff Services, where she served for two and a half years. Currently, Jayde is employed with the Correctional Service of Canada, working as a Correctional Officer at the Nova Institute for Women since August 2023.

Mentoring at Camp Courage is a full-circle moment for Jayde. She finds it immensely rewarding to give back to the camp that shaped her future. Reflecting on her time as a camper, Jayde recalls looking up to the women in uniform who inspired her. Despite the predominance of men in first responder roles, the camp demonstrated the significant presence and impact of women in these professions.

As a mentor, Jayde aspires to be a positive role model and empower even a single camper. She hopes to encourage young girls to pursue their dreams, showing them that they can achieve anything they set their minds to. Jayde’s journey from camper to mentor embodies the spirit of Camp Courage, inspiring the next generation of female leaders in law enforcement and corrections.

With 36 years of dedicated service in emergency response, law enforcement, and the military, Doug has devoted his life to protecting others and mentoring the next generation of first responders. His journey began as a volunteer EMT with the Woods Harbour Volunteer Ambulance Service, setting the foundation for a career defined by courage, leadership, and a commitment to excellence.

After university, Doug worked as an EMT for two years before transitioning into law enforcement with the RCMP, where he served for 24 years in various roles across Canada. His expertise in emergency medical response led him to consult on the national tactical and medical guidelines committee after successfully establishing emergency response teams in British Columbia, Newfoundland & Labrador, and Nova Scotia.

Beyond policing, Doug’s dedication to service extended to the Canadian Forces Reserve, where he spent 22 years as an Infantry Officer with the Princess Louise Fusiliers and as a cadet instructor, helping shape future leaders.
A two-tour veteran of Afghanistan and a PTSD survivor, Doug continues to embody resilience and strength.

Today, he channels his passion into multiple roles—he runs his own carpentry company, serves as a firefighter and instructor with Station 1: Woods Harbour / Shag Harbour of Barrington Municipal Emergency Services, and most importantly, inspires and mentors youth, encouraging the next generation to pursue careers in emergency services.
Doug’s unwavering commitment to service, mentorship, and community makes him an invaluable leader and role model.

Justina is an accomplished HR professional with extensive experience in employee relations, talent management, and HR operations, currently serves as a Volunteer Administrative Coordinator at Camp Courage. With a background spanning multiple industries, she has successfully led initiatives in diversity and inclusion, organizational change, and workforce planning.

Beyond her professional career, Justina is passionate about community engagement and advocacy. She is committed to fostering inclusive environments and supporting initiatives that empower individuals to overcome professional and personal barriers. Her dedication and leadership make her a valuable contributor to Camp Courage’s mission.

Amber Barkhouse, a 2019 Camp Courage graduate, has been a committed volunteer firefighter with the Cornwall and District Fire Department since 2018 and with the Northfield and District Fire Department since 2020. Currently serving as a Captain with the Cornwall and District Fire Department, Amber is also a skilled medical first responder, demonstrating her dedication to public safety and emergency response.

Following her graduation from Camp Courage, Amber was hired by Parks Canada at Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site as a Visitor Safety Technician. In this role, she ensures the safety and well-being of park visitors while also serving as a member of the Parks Canada Fire Crew, further showcasing her versatility and commitment to protecting both people and natural resources.

Amber’s extensive experience and leadership in firefighting, combined with her role in visitor safety, make her an invaluable asset to her community and Parks Canada. Her dedication to service and public safety continues to inspire and impact those around her.

With over 32 years of experience in nursing, Barbara Whynot has dedicated her life to caring for others, leading with compassion, and breaking barriers in healthcare. She began her career in Obstetrics, specializing in Labour and Delivery, and also served as a LifeFlight RN, providing critical care transport for more than five years.

Barbara was a pioneer in forensic nursing, becoming one of Nova Scotia’s first Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (S.A.N.E.s) in the early 2000s. She remained in this role for over a decade, providing compassionate and vital care to survivors while continuing her work in Labour & Delivery and LifeFlight.

Her leadership extended beyond patient care—Barbara went on to manage a large inpatient unit at the IWK Health Centre, overseeing postpartum care, gynecology, and breast health services. In the final ten years of her career, she led Occupational Health, where she played a pivotal role in supporting staff and physicians, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. She led vaccine clinics and collaborated with the province to provide critical support to Long-Term Care facilities, ensuring the safety and well-being of frontline workers and vulnerable populations.

Even after retiring in 2023, Barbara’s passion for helping others never faded. She returned to the S.A.N.E. program, where she continues to provide care to those in need in emergency departments across Halifax.

A lifelong learner, Barbara holds a Bachelor of Science, a Nursing Diploma and Degree, a Diploma in Forensics, and a Master of Health Administration. She is always expanding her knowledge and skills, demonstrating the importance of continuous growth and education.

Beyond her professional achievements, Barbara finds joy in reading, traveling, tackling jigsaw puzzles, and gardening. She values the balance of mental and physical activity, showing that true success comes not just from a career, but from lifelong curiosity, self-care, and giving back.

As your Camp Courage Support Buddy, Barbara is here to listen, encourage, and support you as you take on new challenges. She is excited to help you build confidence, develop your skills, and embrace all the opportunities that lie ahead!

Originally from Bombay, Hosherdar Polad moved to Canada in November 2019, bringing with him a rich background in business management and a postgraduate degree in Human Resources. With a deep commitment to coaching and mentoring, Hosherdar believes in the power of guided support to unlock potential and drive success.

In 2023, Hosherdar achieved a significant milestone by passing his firefighter physical test and graduating as a volunteer firefighter. This accomplishment reflects his dedication to personal growth and his desire to serve his community.

Outside of his professional life, Hosherdar is passionate about community involvement and volunteer work. He has a particular interest in youth mentoring and leadership development, areas where he can leverage his skills and experiences to inspire and guide the next generation. Hosherdar is eager to continue making a positive impact both within his organization and in the wider community, especially through mentoring programs like Camp Courage.

Hosherdar’s blend of business acumen, human resources expertise, and commitment to community service positions him as a valuable and inspirational figure in any setting.

Kathy MacPherson’s life has been defined by an unwavering commitment to helping others thrive. As a Registered Nurse specializing in Obstetrics, she dedicated her career to supporting families, working in the Birth Unit, teaching Neonatal Resuscitation (NRP) and CPR, and assisting various clinics at the IWK Health Centre. Even after retirement, her dedication never wavered—when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, she returned in 2020 to support Occupational Health and Safety, stepping up when her expertise was needed most.

Beyond healthcare, Kathy is a lifelong learner with a passion for baking and bringing people together. She pursued a Boulanger and Baking Arts Certification at NSCC, combining her skills with her love of creating meaningful connections through food. This passion led her to become a cookbook author, sharing not just recipes but the joy and comfort that food brings to families and communities.

Kathy’s heart for giving back extends beyond the kitchen—she is a dedicated fundraiser, having raised over $10,000 over six years for Ride for Cancer. Her passion for helping others also includes mentorship and youth empowerment, where she finds immense joy in encouraging young people as they explore new experiences and build confidence in themselves.

A proud mother and grandmother, Kathy calls Cole Harbour home, where her warmth, generosity, and drive continue to uplift those around her. Whether through healthcare, education, philanthropy, or mentorship, Kathy’s impact is lasting and far-reaching.
As your Camp Courage Support Buddy, Kathy is here to listen, encourage, and support you as you navigate this exciting journey. She is excited to see you grow, step outside your comfort zone, and embrace the incredible opportunities ahead!

For 24 years, Lana Fougere has been a pillar of reliability, efficiency, and dedication at Belmont Health and Wealth. As a Benefits Administrator, she has helped countless individuals navigate their needs with compassion, expertise, and unwavering support. More than just a professional, Lana is someone who truly cares—she doesn’t just assist people; she makes a difference in their lives.

A proud Cape Bretoner, Lana brings the warmth, generosity, and strong sense of community that defines her roots into everything she does. She is a devoted mother of two and a passionate animal lover, with a special place in her heart for dogs.

Lana’s impact isn’t just measured in years of service—it’s reflected in the trust, gratitude, and respect she has earned from those around her. Whether it’s guiding someone through a challenge, offering a helping hand, or simply being a source of encouragement, Lana embodies the spirit of care, resilience, and support.

As your Camp Courage Support Buddy, Lana is here to listen, guide, and uplift you throughout this journey. You can count on her to be in your corner, ready to help you succeed and grow with confidence.

Meaghan is a devoted mom of three beautiful children and has dedicated herself to serving her community as a volunteer firefighter for the past four years. Additionally, she works as a Child Passenger Safety Technician, combining her passion for safety with her commitment to helping others.

Meaghan’s enthusiasm for firefighting drives her to share her knowledge and experiences, making her eager to mentor at Camp Courage. Over the years, she has gained a comprehensive understanding of various facets of firefighting, navigating her journey as a female firefighter with unique insights, particularly while balancing the demands of motherhood, including serving during pregnancy and postpartum.

Teaching and mentoring are deeply fulfilling to Meaghan. She has had the pleasure of presenting to Girl Guides, introducing young girls to firefighting and medical first response. These engaging and informative sessions have been a highlight, allowing her to inspire and educate the next generation.

Her mentoring approach is grounded in patience and empathy, essential qualities for creating a supportive and effective learning environment. Meaghan is committed to working collaboratively and is enthusiastic about imparting new skills, dedicated to guiding and inspiring young women to pursue their goals and dreams.

Meaghan’s blend of professional experience, personal dedication, and passion for mentoring makes her an invaluable asset to any team and an inspiring role model for future generations.

Patrick is a committed volunteer firefighter with Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency, serving as a firetruck driver and pump operator. He graduated from the Professional Firefighter program at Holland College in 2022, earning his IFSAC Seals in Firefighter Levels 1 & 2, along with other specialized certifications.

Currently, Patrick works as a Firefighter Instructor at Survival Systems Training Limited, where he teaches professionals how to combat fires onboard vessels. His passion for teaching encompasses all aspects of firefighting, from technical fire science to fundamental skills like gear usage.

Patrick’s encouraging personality and dedication to his students’ success make him an outstanding instructor. He takes great pleasure in seeing his students excel, and his enthusiasm for firefighting is both inspiring and contagious. Patrick’s blend of practical experience and teaching expertise makes him a valuable asset to both his firefighting team and his students.

Shayn Power is a committed volunteer firefighter with a wealth of experience in leadership and management. In addition to his firefighting duties, he has management experience in the insurance industry. Shayn’s passion for volunteering is evident through his support of various organizations throughout the year.

In his community, Shayn is known for his enthusiasm and active lifestyle. He enjoys playing soccer, baseball, and golf, as well as hiking with his dog, Alfie. Despite his limited experience with youth, he participated in a variety of events with youth in his local community such as girl guide tours and grade school fairs as a member of his local fire station, showcasing his ability to engage and inspire young minds.

Shayn is particularly eager to contribute to programs that have a positive societal impact, especially those that empower youth and promote diversity. He is driven by a desire to grow both personally and professionally by connecting with like-minded individuals and enhancing his skills through meaningful volunteer work. His significant experience in mentoring and leadership positions him as a valuable asset to any initiative focused on community development and youth empowerment.

Ahmed Abdelhameid recently joined Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency as a Volunteer Firefighter at Station 16 in Eastern Passage. His enthusiasm for community service extends to Camp Courage, an initiative he eagerly embraced, demonstrating his commitment to learning and supporting this valuable program.

In his full-time role as an Aquatic Specialist with HRM, Ahmed excels in training and mentoring staff. He takes great pride in educating and supporting young team members, helping them navigate their responsibilities and overcome challenges. His dedication to guiding and nurturing young staff in their personal and professional growth is a testament to his passion for making a positive impact on those around him.

Ahmed’s dual roles in firefighting and aquatic services showcase his ability to handle diverse responsibilities with confidence and competence, making him a valued member of both his teams.

Emily is a multifaceted professional who has been a dedicated Firefighter, Medical First Responder, and Fire Prevention Officer with Elmsdale Fire and Emergency Services since 2016. In addition to her critical emergency response roles, Emily is a passionate entrepreneur with a Business Administration diploma.

Driven by her entrepreneurial spirit, Emily has successfully launched a small business offering Yoga and Reiki services, sharing the benefits of holistic well-being with her community. She also takes pride in teaching yoga locally, further enriching her community’s health and vitality.

Emily’s commitment extends beyond her business endeavours as she actively contributes to her community and supports Camp Courage. She has organized yoga sessions in exchange for donations, with her innovative “yoga in bunker gear” fundraiser being a beloved favourite that raised over $400.

Emily firmly believes that young women possess boundless potential and can achieve anything they set their minds to. Her favourite quote, “Be the change you want to see in the world” by Mohandas Gandhi, encapsulates her commitment to making a positive impact and inspiring positive change in her community and beyond. Emily Robinson embodies the spirit of empowerment and community involvement, leaving a lasting impression wherever she goes.

Amanda is a proud Volunteer Firefighter with Station 26 – Oyster Pond, serving her community through Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency. She joined after moving to Lake Charlotte and has embraced every challenge since, including completing the demanding Volunteer Recruit Training (VRT) program—which pushed her far outside her comfort zone. Through her journey, Amanda has formed strong connections and, most importantly, found a meaningful way to give back to the community she calls home.

Originally from Newfoundland, Amanda may not have the full “Newfie” accent, but you’ll still catch her slipping in a cheerful “Whaddya at?” or “Yes b’y” now and then. She currently works as a Civil Construction Inspector, a role that allows her to engage with both the community and construction crews while navigating the dynamic challenges of the industry. Passionate about advocating for women in construction, Amanda brings that same drive and enthusiasm to her role as a Camp Courage mentor, helping to empower the next generation of young women in emergency services.