Last updated on April 2nd, 2021 at 08:48 pm
I have to say—I thought I’d struck Pauleanna’s nerve in my hunt for Live contributors. She’d told me she was too busy when I pressed her with one of my emails, but one brief look at her résumé will tell you that’s exactly what she was!
Pauleanna’s ode to her country shows a lot of growth—many of us born here take this land for granted, not fully realising that life’s a lot harder in many countries worldwide. My journeys have taken me to many places—Maasai huts in Tanzania. Cockroach-ridden buses in Compton. From mountaintops to back-alley shops, I’ve witnessed huge swaths of the human condition, which is why I embrace home with open arms every time I come back!
It’s easy to forget how good you’ve got it when you stay inside your comfort zone for too long, and I think Pauleanna’s piece is a good reminder for us to take stock of these Canadian lives, seeing what we can do to better those who live their lives without.
Enjoy Pauleanna’s piece, and we’ll see you at the next #Chronicle150!
Until then,
Who are you, and what are you all about?
I’m a multi-passionate entrepreneur on a mission to help young women and girls see beyond the limits of their circumstances and create a life they love. I’m also a motivational speaker and nationally published journalist of the best-selling book Everything I Couldn’t Tell My Mother, the founder of New Girl on the Block Inc., a mentorship program that’s way sicker than your average. In the end, I manage a lot, but every passion project is well worth it!
What makes you so Canadian?
As a Canadian citizen, I was very fortunate to have access to many tools that may not be awarded in other countries. One of the biggest things that really served a purpose in my life was getting healthcare when dealing with my mental health. I was grateful to overcome my depression and anxiety and have Canada to thank for it! Growing up in a Caribbean household has helped me get closer to my parents’ roots, but being born in Canada gave me a lifeline to many opportunities to empower and change people’s lives.
If you could distill your world to one story or moment that truly defines what being Canadian means to you, what would it be?
I think one memory that really stood out from others is the standing for the national anthem. We all did it, but we didn’t understand the purpose behind the symbol. It became a routine and in our life, and we were numb to it. In elementary school, I remember when we had to sing the anthem in both French and English and put our hand across our chest. At the time, I didn’t understand the message—but looking back, it was clear. We were taught to be proud of our country and to celebrate all its aspects, which we tend to neglect as adults.
This is Canada today after 150 years. Where would you like to see it go from here on out?
Canada will always have my heart! Even when I do cross the border for my business. I’ve always appreciated its inclusiveness and the diverse group of cultures in our country. Canada has always accepted immigrants with open arms under unfortunate circumstances, which makes this country stand out from others.
Finally, what’s the one thing you think the rest of the world needs to know about Canada?
As the national anthem notes, “Our True North is strong and free.” And for this, we are happy people, hard workers and self-starters. I am truly thankful for everything, especially with what’s happening around the world at the moment. Our stance, decisions and changes make our country even more special.
About Pauleanna Reid
Pauleanna Reid is a Motivational Speaker, Millennial Mentor, Celebrity/CEO Ghostwriter and critically acclaimed Author of her fiction novel, Everything I Couldn’t Tell My Mother. Through a whirlwind of inspirational lectures, round table discussions and media appearances, she positively influences, challenges and reconnects youth with their passions. Pauleanna uses incredible wit and candour to empower women and girls.
Her proudest accomplishment is New Girl on the Block, a mentorship program for millennial women in transition. The organisation’s heart helps tackle Gen Y’s biggest challenges and equips every student with innovative solutions to get them ahead in life. From recent graduates to new business owners, from career changes to quarter-life crises, Pauleanna is a leader of the new school and has successfully mentored more than 100 women globally. Every girl in the world already has the tools she needs to succeed. The primary focus is to ignite that inner power and lead a generation of women to maximise their vision and live their fullest lives. With unique teaching methods and a curriculum designed to educate, entertain and inspire, New Girl on the Block effortlessly converts shy girls into career-savvy, confident women.
For more details, please visit Pauleanna’s website at PauleannaReid.com!
