CYCLEBETES: Delivering on a Promise.
CURE JUVENILE DIABETES.

 Francesca McDowell - Can Do! Squad Member/Student Leader

Francesca McDowell

Post Secondary

School: UBC

Three words to describe me:

1. Outgoing
2. Persevering
3. Involved

What is the Can-do Spirit mean to you?

Waking up thinking not only of your personal goals but of the aims of others too, and problem solving how the two intertwine - then finding that passion that drives them both forward.

How did you get involved with Cyclebetes?

In Grade 11, I was determined to do something for the community and expand my event planning skills. After hearing Taylor Balagno's story of her struggle with diabetes and her father's fight to end it, along with the support of Rockridge's then Vice-Principal Ian Kennedy and John Henry Bikes owner, Willie Cromack, it was clear that Juvenile Diabetes was the cause. Putting together a team of like-minded students, the planning committee was established, coining the name 'Cyclebetes' and creating the first spin-a-thon that would inspire a legacy of innovative and determined leaders across the nation to do help other's reach their goals.

What did you personally achieve from your involvement with Cyclebetes?A whirl-wind of skills development; public speaking, communications, volunteer coordination, logistical planning, team building, problem solving...the list goes on.

 

Has your attitude towards leadership changed since being involved?

Cyclebetes is still in the forefront of my mind in everything I do both on and off the UBC campus. It reminds me that a good event keeps the goals in sight, and is fueled by passion - however personal or general that may be.

What does leadership mean to you?

Changing someone's life for the better, even in the smallest of ways.

Why is it important to be socially responsible and involved in our communities?

The harsh truth is that the world is unfair. Economic, social, political, educational and biological inequality reign the globe: these things are alleviated by the acts of responsibility, and the betterment of our society, which in turn requires the building of social relationships and the inter development of the community, by the community.