Jacqulin McNichol

I was raised to believe that strong communities don't happen by accident. They are built by people willing to show up, contribute, share their skills, support one another and carry forward important traditions. That belief has shaped who I am and the importance I place on contributing to the community I am proud to call home, Squamish.

Volunteering has always been about connection for me. It brings together people who may have different backgrounds, experiences and perspectives but share a common desire to contribute to something meaningful. I believe some of the strongest communities are those where people feel a sense of belonging and responsibility to one another, and where they recognize that their individual contribution, large or small, matters.

My approach to leadership reflects that belief. I don't see leadership as being the person at the front or receiving credit for what has been accomplished. I see it as creating opportunities for others, encouraging people to participate, recognizing their strengths and contributions, and being willing to take responsibility when something needs to get done. Sometimes that means advocating publicly though more often, it means solving problems, building relationships and putting in the hours behind the scenes.

I also believe leadership carries a responsibility to build a positive reputation for the organizations and community you represent. Trust is earned by following through on commitments, treating people with respect, being willing to listen and finding ways to work together when challenges arise. I take pride in helping create environments where people feel valued and want to participate, contribute and return.

My professional life in British Columbia's forestry sector has reinforced many of those same values. Forestry has taught me the importance of relationships between people, First Nations, businesses, communities and the land. It has also shown me the important role that strong industries and local businesses play in giving people the ability to invest their time, resources and energy back into the places they call home.

Being nominated for the Bill Manson Citizen of the Year Award is meaningful because I have never viewed community involvement as something done for recognition. I volunteer because I believe contributing to your community is both a privilege and a responsibility and something that comes naturally from who I am.

If fortunate enough to receive this award, I would accept it knowing that anything I have accomplished has been made possible by the many people I have had the privilege of volunteering alongside. Friends, family and colleagues who continually reinforce something I strongly believe in. When people give a little of themselves to their community, collectively we can accomplish an incredible amount.