As we mark the 150th anniversary of confederation, The Philanthropist is profiling Canadians from across the non-profit sector and putting a face to 150 individuals who work or volunteer in Canada’s social sector.
Name: Myna Kota
Current role in the sector: Senior Manager, Advocacy & Communications at Girl Guides of Canada
Years working and/or volunteering in the non-profit sector: 12 years.
What was your first job in the sector or a defining moment?
My first job in the sector was Community Relations Specialist at Goodwill Toronto. My work focused on engaging government and community leaders to provide financial and political support for employment programs for youth from priority neighbourhoods. I learned first-hand the critical role non-profit organizations play in addressing social justice issues, and the important relationship between the charitable, public and private sectors.
Describe your desk/workspace.
My desk is often covered with a combination of file folders, binders, my notebook and some notepads…it could be described as organized chaos! I love having a whiteboard in my office for mapping out my thought process on a given project, and I have posted my organization’s mission, value proposition and strategic priorities on the wall next to my computer, so I can be constantly reminded of the bigger picture and overall purpose of my work.
What are you reading or following that has expanded your understanding of the non-profit sector?
My go-to sources for information on the non-profit sector in Canada are Imagine Canada, The Philanthropist, Ontario Nonprofit Network and Charity Village. Also, following people who work on a wide range of charitable causes continues to enhance my understanding of just how vast the scope of the sector is.
What do you think our sector needs to be thinking about?
I think it’s important for the sector to continue thinking about the fact that charities have a key role to play in public policy development, and that individuals affected by policy decisions should be meaningfully engaged in the process. This includes children and youth, who have important insights to offer decisionmakers in any organization.
Do you know someone we should profile as part of this series? Email us at philanthropistprofiles@gmail.com
