When Empower Simcoe Believe in Yourself Committee member Melissa Swales learned she had been selected as a recipient of the Community Living Ontario Anne Stafford Light Up the Future Bursary, she was, in her own words, “flabbergasted.”
Melissa will use the bursary funding to attend a two-day professional barista training course in Toronto this October. Having worked as a partner at Starbucks for more than nine years, she is excited to further develop her skills and expand her knowledge in a field she is passionate about.
Melissa believes her application stood out because of her willingness to think outside the box and challenge expectations.
A dedicated self-advocate and longtime supporter of Empower Simcoe, Melissa has been actively involved as a member of the Believe in Yourself Committee for several years. She has volunteered at numerous Empower Simcoe events, walked the runway as a model in the 2023 Celebrating Community Champions Fashion Show, and has shared her experiences through public speaking opportunities. In recognition of her advocacy efforts, Melissa received an Empower Simcoe Gift of the Heart Award in 2023.
For anyone considering applying for the bursary in the future, Melissa offers simple but powerful advice:
“If you’re nervous about something, you should do it. Keep trying and never give up.”
When asked to describe receiving the bursary, Melissa chose three words: humble, inspirational, and ecstatic.
Congratulations, Melissa! We are incredibly proud of all you have accomplished and look forward to hearing about your experience and everything you’ll learn through this exciting opportunity.
