We are always interested in hearing more about the individuals in food banking across Canada! This month, our spotlight is on Meghan Nicholls from The Mississauga Food Bank in Mississauga, ON.
What is your role in food banking?
Interim Executive Director at The Mississauga Food Bank.
Describe a typical day in one word.
Fast-paced.
What was your inspiration to get involved in food banking?
I applied for a job as Director of Marketing and Development back in 2009 as I was looking for a new challenge in my fundraising career. At that time, even though I had lived in Mississauga for 6 years, I didn’t know there was a food bank, let alone a network of agencies like we have at The Mississauga Food Bank! I have stayed with it because it’s a great cause to invite others to support – everyone understands what it would mean to be hungry and is willing to help.
What is your greatest achievement in your current role?
I’m proud of the work the staff and Board have done together to develop our new strategic plan. Implementing it will see us grow in our capacity to feed more neighbours in Mississauga over the next 4 years.
What is your greatest challenge in your current role?
Balancing multiple priorities. In our work, there are so many important things that could be done at any one time. I work to make strategic decisions that will have the biggest impact and use our resources best, but it’s not always easy.
If you could have one wish granted that would address hunger in Canada what would it be?
That a basic income would be implemented across Canada. I believe that this would vastly improve the lives of Canadians and allow a more equitable standard of living for everyone in our communities. I’ve been so pleased to read about the positive impact this program has had in its pilot stage.
Which talent would you most like to have?
I would love to be able to paint.
If you could tell your younger self advice, what would it be?
Go for it! Don’t let fear hold you back.
Who are your heroes? Fictional or real life
I’ve learned a lot from my Dad. He has led non-profits for the last 30 years and shows incredible dedication to supporting nationals in making change in their own communities around the world.
What is your idea of happiness?
A sunny afternoon in a hammock with a good book, a giant glass of unsweetened iced tea, laughing and having fun with my family.
What is your motto?
It’s gonna be great! (I try to say it a lot when things are going wrong, just to remind and convince myself it’s all going to turn out okay. Sometimes with a touch of sarcasm. 😀 )
Something quirky about you that others may not expect or know?
My husband and I shot a film in Rwanda in 2008 that focussed on how the United Nations Millennium Development Goals were being met. We received funding from Global Affairs Canada to show the film and educate youth in Canada about the goals and how they could get involved in achieving them. It was called The Just Us Project.
Your theme song?
Not my theme song, but I’m a huge fan of Hamilton band the Arkells. I’ve seen them in concert 7 times in the last couple of years!
Do you know a food bank or food banker that could be featured on our next Spotlight? Contact us at communications@foodbankscanada.ca.