This month’s Purppl Partner is Naomi Woodland from the United Way British Columbia. Take a quick 5 to get to know this leader!
Naomi Woodland -Regional CII Coordinator, Comm. Impact & Investment. United Way BC.
Where do you consider “home”?
Home is an interesting concept, my roots will always be in Stevenage, Hertfordshire which means strong oak in Anglo Saxon, but my home is where my garden is. I am an avid gardener and protector of land and wildlife. I love drawing on the principles of permaculture and creating landscapes that utilize the strengths of the plants and soil we are on. Right now home is Rutland in Kelowna near to Sntsk’il’ntən (Black Mountain) Park.
What is your favourite part of your role with United Way?
Oh my what a question! I love connecting with both community members and community agencies, learning more about the challenges being faced in our complex world and making connections that alleviate some of these challenges. Being able to amplify and elevate common issues and themes through community tables to local and provincial government has been particularly rewarding in my work.
Who in your community do you admire and why?
There are so many amazing people in our community. I think for me Wilbur Turner has to be one of the most significant people. He has shifted many peoples opinions on the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and created such a huge Pride Festival. He does so much for youth and is always a continued advocate for the community on a local, provincial and national scale. I also want to mention all the of trailblazers in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, but for me the lesbians who often faced such hardship financially and socially and were also the ones responsible for raising their children.
What one thing do you wish people NOT currently working in the social impact space knew about it, or would do differently?
The constant stress in searching for funds to continue essential programs; central funding through taxpayers dollars would be such a huge game changer for the social services sector. Many of these organizations are vital to so many people in our communities. You never know when you might need their support too.
If someone was coming to your town for dinner where would you most recommend they grab a great take out?
New Punjab Indian Restaurant in Rutland 😊
