Irene T. Zenguele

Youth Engagement

With a Masters's Degree in Child and Youth Care, Irene strongly believes that the growth of different opportunities combined with her passion for children and youth care will only increase her effectiveness and commitment to the CYW field. Irene's work helps her not only with children and youth but also with their families and the overall communities.

This philosophy has inspired her work as a Child and Youth Worker in both the Toronto Catholic and the Toronto District School Boards over the last seven years. "Helping people set and reach their goals is challenging but extremely rewarding work. Forcing you to examine your own beliefs, values, and bias, Child and Youth Care is deeply personal work. It will expose you to new and different cultures and ways of living. You will develop empathy that you weren’t sure you were capable of. In addition, you have to enhance your communication skills and learn to work collaboratively in teams and within a community.”

As a woman of colour, Irene has been able to relate to many issues, many of the clientele she has had the privilege to serve. She recognizes her culture and community are important assets in her work, as they help her connect their experiences and better advice with those she serves. Irene believes that there is a need for more visibility of diversity in leadership roles, as it can help children and youths connect, relate and see themselves in positions of power.