GenNext Advocates
Get to know the current team of GenNext advocates and find out why they choose to volunteer and support our movement.
Working closely with United Way East Ontario staff, these incredible volunteers are community voices on how to stand up for the causes they care about, how to support GenNext, and how to get involved through our events and activities.
Cali Kehoe (She/Her)
How would you introduce yourself to a new person at a Mix & Mingle?
Hi there! My name is Cali Kehoe and I’m a proud East Coaster, hailing from the beautiful Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia. While by day I work as a Policy Analyst with Natural Resources Canada, I fill my evenings and weekends with various volunteer work and—as of recently—kick-starting my own small business. I’m an outgoing, fun-loving gal who loves to learn, grow, and support my peers and community.
Why did you want to become a GenNext Advocate?
I am passionate about mental health and wellness, so when I learned about GenNext and the work they do in this area, I just had to get involved as an Advocate. I love what United Way East Ontario is doing in our communities, including in the city I now call home, and I am excited to be able to play a part in supporting this important work!
What’s your favourite hidden gem in our region?
Having only moved to Ottawa just over three years ago, I haven’t had the opportunity to explore all that the city has to offer. But my hidden gem would be Brigid’s Well Pub in Lowertown. It’s an authentic Irish bar located in the basement of the former Saint Brigid’s Roman Catholic Church. If you find yourself in the area on the last Friday of the month, drop in for a pint and some incredible music that will transport you to Dublin.
Maddy Davis (She/Her)
How would you introduce yourself to a new person at a Mix & Mingle?
Hi! My name is Madison, though I usually go by Maddy. I’m a third-year Commerce student studying at Carleton University.
I enjoy staying busy and trying new things. Most recently I decided to try volleyball, although I’m not quite good at it I really enjoy the teamwork. I also like movies and pretending I don’t fall asleep after the first five minutes, as well as music and basketball.
Why did you want to become a GenNext Advocate?
I want to become a GenNext advocate because I am passionate about many of the values and issues they support and have volunteered with the United Way Hastings and Prince Edward (UWHPE) for the past 4 years. After moving away for school, I continued to volunteer with UWHPE online, but I was looking for ways to be involved in the Ottawa community that I now consider home. GenNext is an opportunity that allows me to stay involved with the United Way while gaining in-person experience and meeting others within my new community.
What’s your favourite hidden gem in our region?
My favourite hidden gem is Koichi Ramen on Somerset. Not only do they have amazing food but the atmosphere is incredible. Even though it’s a small place it should not be overlooked. Located in Chinatown there are so many other places to explore around it as well (including Drip House!).
Bassant Mohamed (She/Her)
How would you introduce yourself to a new person at a Mix & Mingle?
Hi! My name is Bassant Mohamed. I am going into my 4th year at Carleton University, studying global and international studies with a focus on Global development. I’m someone who loves to travel and experience new cultures because it almost widens my perspective on reality, exposing me to all the different ways in which people live their lives around the world. For this reason, I love putting myself out there and seizing opportunities to meet new people. I find there is always something interesting to learn from each individual’s life experience.
Why did you want to become a GenNext Advocate?
GenNext targets local issues that represent all the topics I am passionate about, from mental health, youth homelessness, equitable employment, diversity and inclusion, and more. For me, the topic of mental health is of particular importance as I firmly believe that to build a prosperous society, there needs to be a focus on building up the individuals within it by prioritizing their mental health. For this reason, GenNext allows me to work amongst other advocates to tackle these issues head-on and give back to my community.
What’s your favourite hidden gem in our region?
Hands down, the Rockliffe lookout! As someone who loves sunsets, this lookout is beautiful and overlooks the Ottawa River/Gatineau. If you haven’t been yet, this is your chance to go. I usually like to come down there if I ever need to wind down and take in the view!
Stephen La Salle (He/Him)
How would you introduce yourself to a new person at a Mix & Mingle?
Hi there, my name is Stephen La Salle! I’m an executive chef, previously in the hotel food and beverage world opening 3 restaurants and 2 hotels, but most recently changed lanes to work in food security as an executive chef and operations manager for a food rescue and distribution charity. I’m from Ottawa and love to explore and promote our city, my favourite part of the city is the Rideau Canal, preferably explored by cycling, paddling, or skating. I’m a recent soccer fan cheering on Atletico Ottawa, a dog dad to full and a half dalmatian, and looking forward to growing and meeting other leaders by volunteering more.
Why did you want to become a GenNext Advocate?
I’ve recently started volunteering in food security, on top of my work in community food distribution to find and open the Brookfield Community Food Cupboard. I wanted to grow that impact by working with other community leaders on causes that improve food security like GenNext does with mental health, equitable employment, diversity, and youth homelessness.
What’s your favourite hidden gem in our region?
There’s a noodle place in an industrial park on Collonade called Noodle’s Invitation that deserves a trophy for their cuisine. On top of literally award-winning beer, the food that Chef Tim is doing at Flora Hall Brewing will redefine your expectations for brewery cuisine with thoughtful and well-crafted dishes with real depth. For sweets, Adam Bakes opens once a week on Rochester Street and has a brownie made with Almonte-made Hummingbird “bean to bar” chocolate that is a contender for best in the world.
Sagal Are (She/Her)
How would you introduce yourself to a new person at a Mix & Mingle?
Hi! My name is Sagal and I just graduated from studying Politics & International Relations! Although Canadian born, I’ve been living between Canada and the UK for most of my life, and recently moved to Ottawa for a new start. During my spare time, I enjoy reading, finding scenic hiking trails and a huge lover of exploring new cafes. I also like to try new things that are out of my comfort zone such as creative hobbies, and most recently tried to crochet a new hat. Although difficult, I’m excited to see what kind of things I can create with my own designs!
Why did you want to become a GenNext Advocate?
Having recently moved to Ottawa after living in the UK, I wanted to find new ways to get involved in community initiatives and give back. I’m passionate about supporting my community, particularly in areas including youth homelessness and mental health. I hope this is an area that I will learn more about in Ottawa, and make a meaningful impact within our region. I truly believe that GenNext offers a great platform to connect with like-minded individuals while allowing me to develop my professional skills and make a positive difference.
What’s your favourite hidden gem in our region?
Having recently moved to Ottawa, I love exploring new hiking trails and all the nature the city has to provide. So far, my favourite has to be Princess Louise Falls. It’s beautiful during the summer and fall, so you can’t miss a good day!