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This year, the Ontario Living Wage Network (OLWN) participated in a government program allowing us to hire two students for the summer — Aleesha and Hina. When asked about why they chose to work with the OLWN, they both spoke about how they were able to combine advocacy work for a cause they feel strongly about with their own personal passions and interests.
“I was drawn to the OLWN because not only does it do important social justice work advocating for Ontario’s workers, but it also has a research element that I think lends a lot of weight to its mission,” shares Aleesha. “As a Life Sciences student at McMaster University who is focusing my studies on Community Engaged Research, this intersection of research and social advocacy is an avenue I am extremely passionate about. Being able to work at the OLWN has been a huge privilege. I have learned so much about their mission, their work, and also about myself and what I value.”
Hina, a Graphic Design student at Centennial College, shares that this placement enabled her to use design and visual communication as tools to shed light on the importance of living wages and workers’ well-being. “I chose to undertake my summer placement with the Ontario Living Wage Network due to a combination of my desire to support the community and my passion for creative communication. This experience has not only reaffirmed my commitment to community welfare but has also strengthened my pursuit of a career path where meaningful engagement and creative expression intersect.”
Both Hina and Aleesha attest to the importance of a living wage for students. Often times students are overlooked when discussing a living wage, despite the high expenses associated with this stage of life. Earning a living wage has a significant impact on their quality of life as students; not only has it helped them achieve financial stability, but it has also reduced stress and allowed them to better focus on their education.
It was great to have you two with us for this short time...you'll be missed!
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