Michele Nichol-Sawh has put her name forward for School Board Trustee in the upcoming by-elections on September 10th. She is a dedicated community member with over 20 years of work experience in the field of child protection and gender-based violence counseling.
Sawh expressed her passion for aiding individuals through traumas and ensuring that every voice is heard. She emphasized the importance of inclusivity and diversity on the board to acater to the community's broad perspectives and well-being.
“I specialize professionally in gender-based violence, helping people through their issues, working on their goals and counseling them through different traumas in their life.”
Michele is a dedicated professional with a vast array of educational and professional accomplishments. She holds a Bachelor of Social Work Degree from the University of Victoria, showcasing her commitment to excellence in the field. She was also a past recipient of the Women of Distinction Award from the YWCA. As a registered social worker and a Child Welfare Specialist she demonstrates her expertise and dedication to making a difference in the lives of individuals and families.
“I support a well-resourced, effective education system that is flexible and adaptive in order to give our young people the necessary tools to succeed.”
In addition to her social work background, Michele was previously a Licensed Practical Nurse, bringing over 14 years of experience in the health care field. For the past 14 years, Michele has served as the Executive Director for Men Are Part of the Solution (MAPS). Her role as the lead clinician highlights her skills in fostering positive and impactful change in the lives of individuals and families. Additionally, she oversees MAPS's transitional housing services and offers her expertise as the Chair for the Community Advisory Board, which administers the local Federal Reaching Home Program.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Michele has devoted her time and talents as a longstanding volunteer for the Royal Canadian Legion Burntwood Branch #244. She also serves on the boards of the Thompson Community Foundation and the Thompson Humane Society. She emphasized the importance of inclusivity and diversity in making decisions to support the community's broad perspectives and well-being.
Michele's vision for an adaptable and effective education system, coupled with her extensive experience and dedication to community service, indicates her potential to positively impact the education system in Thompson. If elected, she aims to collaborate with various stakeholders to build the best possible education system for the children of Thompson.