Avigail is a Filipino storyteller, mentor, and community connector. She is currently at Royal Roads University. Having practiced journalism in the Philippines and Southeast Asia for 18 years, she believes in the power of the written word and how it effects change. Prior to coming to Canada, she specialized in producing narratives and investigative pieces, leading fact-checking teams, editing in various newsrooms, and holding media training for journalists and students. As Here Magazine’s Community Engagement Director, she connects community partners, decision-makers, and stakeholders to address challenges newcomers face in Victoria. Avie is committed to decolonizing methods of communication to bridge the gap between the newcomer-immigrant and Indigenous communities, and to create platforms for storytelling for reconciliation. Being in Canada, she abides by the word from the Nihiyaw (Cree) language “tawaw” – which means “there’s always room” – for communities to come together and say, we exist, we are alive, and we have a story to tell.

Avigail demonstrated an extraordinary diligence to gaining participation in a work-integrated learning opportunity. As Avigail’s Career Advisor, we consulted throughout RRU’s Career Management/Internship Preparation. Avigail’s approach was time sensitive, expansive and curious; she was open to many ideas while maintaining a strategic consideration that aligned with her long-term goals. Avigail pursued knowledge and insight on her internship search by building networks and conducting information interviews; and shared her experiences and new information with her fellow students. Her entire cohort benefited from her energy and pursuit of new knowledge. She is the glue that connects people, opportunities and ideas. Avigail collaborated with her host employer which prompted an additional internship opportunity. She promotes ideas and connections to her peers and has developed a solid path for future work-integrated opportunities with Here Magazine. Avigail models an inclusive leadership towards gaining positive livelihoods while promoting diversity and equitable opportunities. Congratulations Avigail.