We don’t always choose the challenges that shape us. But we do choose what we build from them.
When I moved to Alberta, I had a car full of everything I owned, my 6 year old son in the back seat, my cats tucked into and adding to the chaos (meowing for the full 9 hour drive), and my family left behind. I was exhausted, uncertain, and starting over. I was young, and the weight of that was real. I didn’t know who I was or where I belonged — but I knew there was more for us in Alberta: a house, a career, and the financial stability needed to provide a calm childhood to the most important person in the world. The healthcare job I had lined up fell through within weeks, so I took a sales role in distribution — not because it aligned with my career goals, but because the hours meant I could see my son before and after school, and if he was sick, I could bring him to work. That kind of flexibility is hard to find in healthcare, and at that moment, being present for him mattered more than anything.
That job opened the door to the security industry. At first, I didn’t think I’d stay. I didn’t see myself in the space — not as a young mom, not when the room was full of men with 10 and 20-year careers who didn’t think I had what it took. I couldn’t answer their questions. I didn’t speak the language. But I showed up. I listened. I built relationships. And they started to show up for me, they started to teach and mentor me.
I grew up in this industry — through every role, every conversation, every challenge. I learned by doing, by asking, by watching. I learned who to turn to for answers, and how to build trust through consistency and curiosity. And as I became more visible — through events, outreach, and leadership — something shifted. People started coming to me. They asked for help building their careers, finding mentors, making introductions, and navigating self-development. They trusted me — not because I had all the answers, but because I was willing to share the journey, and to share who I was. I showed up with honesty, curiosity, and a commitment to being authentic — even when I was still figuring things out myself.
I’ve had the most incredible mentors — the kind who challenge you, stretch you, and sometimes drive you a little crazy. They taught me through example: showing up with treats to meetings, solving problems with calm and resourcefulness, insisting I attend events because they knew the impact, and even teaching me how to golf. I’m still terrible at golf, but the rules are clearer now, and I’m not afraid to be seen bad at something anymore — Some of the best relationships are built on the golf course, and I’m grateful for every one of them.
As I moved through roles and transitions, I started to see what was missing in the industry: connection, clarity, and a space where professionals could grow together. That’s when the idea for Canada Security Collective began to take shape — but I still had a lot to learn.
And here’s the truth: I chose to build CSC at a time when I had the most incredible job offers on the table. Opportunities I never imagined for myself. But something shifted. If others believed I could represent them, build their teams, build their departments, and in some cases build their businesses… why couldn’t I build my own?
When I was no longer associated with the biggest brands in the industry, I realized something important: I had already been part of some of the largest integrators, manufacturers, and volunteer organizations in the field. My identity wasn’t tied to a single company — it was built through relationships, contribution, and consistency across the entire industry. I’ve had my dream jobs. I’ve lived my dream life. That’s what makes this next chapter so different — it’s not about chasing titles or milestones. It’s about building something that reflects who I am now, and creating space for others to do the same
I started learning the value of volunteering for something you’re truly passionate about and giving back to your community — not just showing up, but organizing, leading, and inviting others in. Across the industry, we’ve come together for grouped volunteer events that build trust and shared purpose. Some have been through professional associations, or company-led initiatives. Others have extended beyond the industry — supporting the children's hospital, packing food hampers, and contributing to women’s shelters and food banks. When we contribute side by side, we build momentum, empathy, and real relationships. That’s what CSC is built on — strong values, shared action, and a belief that connection drives change.
When I told people what I was doing, the support was overwhelming. Some were worried — about what this would mean for my career, my finances, my family. But every single one of them was looking out for me. I appreciate them more than I can say. I love the people this industry has given me the opportunity to meet.
But, the timing made sense. My son — the little boy who sat in that car years ago — is now an adult, working as an electrician and building his own life. I’m proud of him, and he’s proud of me. I’m so grateful that I can now take this leap with the space and clarity to do it fully — and with the support of the industry I’ve come to call home.
I’m still building CSC — we’re only six months in — but I have a vision and see the impact it will have, I believe in it deeply, and I know it’s needed. It’s my answer to the silos, the missed opportunities, and the lack of shared knowledge I’ve seen across sectors. We're making space for collaboration, inclusion, and development — and it’s evolving with every conversation, every post on AI bringing IT closer to security, every protest connecting risk, operations, and security, every school that’s adopting security programs, and every business consulting security before the other departments.
This post isn’t just for women or young moms. It’s not just for the confused or the people starting their careers. It’s for those stuck in roles when they know they’re meant for more. It’s for those being doubted by their peers, their leadership — or themselves. It’s for anyone who’s ever felt like an outsider in their own ambition. It’s for those who’ve built careers while navigating caregiving, change, financial strain, or self-doubt. It’s for those who’ve asked, “Who am I to lead?” — and kept going anyway.
The Myth of Readiness
We’re taught to wait until we’re polished. Until we’ve earned the title, the degree, the external validation. But some of the most impactful leaders I know started with nothing but clear intention and a willingness to connect. Readiness isn’t a prerequisite. It’s a byproduct of action.
Authenticity Attracts
When I stopped trying to look and sound like everyone else in the industry — when I let my authenticity and values lead, and showed up with warmth, clarity, and purpose — the right people started showing up. Collaborators, sponsors, investors, speakers. They weren’t drawn to perfection. They were drawn to vision.
Your personal brand isn’t just a logo or a LinkedIn headline. It’s how you make people feel. It’s the story you tell when you’re not selling anything — and the way people treat you when you take off the title, the badge, the branding, and show up as just you.
Build Your Network Before You Think You Need It
Relationships are the currency of opportunity — but they’re also the foundation of trust, growth, and belonging. The best time to invest in them is before you’re asking for anything, and long before you think you’re anyone.
CSC is growing because I’ve reached out, listened, and created space for others to shine. That early groundwork — the coffees, the DMs, the shared wins — isn't about strategy. It's about connection. And now, it’s becoming the foundation for national momentum.
Imposter Syndrome Isn’t a Stop Sign
I still feel it. Most of us do. But I’ve learned to treat it as a signal — not of inadequacy, but of growth. If you’re stretching into something new, of course it feels uncomfortable.
“Physiologically anxiety and excitement are very similar. The difference is in our interpretation." -Tim JP Collins, The Anxiety Podcast
The goal isn’t to eliminate imposter syndrome. It’s to move through it with grace and a clear sense of why you’re here.
Your Path Is the Point
Whether you’re a founder, a student, a parent, a professional in transition, or all of these things combined — your journey matters. Not despite its complexity, but because of it.
I want to help build personal security — not just in the industry, but in people’s lives. I want to hear about your kids, your new home, your vacation plans. I want to see you doing what you do best — whether that’s designing security systems behind the scenes, stepping onto a stage, building your personal brand, or landing the role you’ve been working toward.
That’s what CSC is built for. That’s what I’m here for.
