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“Windmill provides a means for Canada to fulfill its aspirations”
Claire Kennedy is an inspiring member of the Windmill community. A distinguished leader in the private and educational sectors, she is a champion of multiple causes and has received many recognitions for her meritorious service. We’re proud to count her among our supporters and pleased to share her insights from a recent conversation.
What motivates you to give back to your community?
“I find [volunteering] personally enriching. I meet so many interesting, knowledgeable people, and gain so much from their perspectives and experience. I wouldn’t get that if I didn’t volunteer. It expands my worldview.”
What do you find special about Windmill?
“From a donor perspective, Windmill is extraordinary in its impact on many levels. Not only does it make a big difference to the wellbeing of its clients and their families, but when you think about the downstream impacts of helping people become professionally established ... we’re enabling generations to flourish, which in turn benefits the country. The way I see it, Windmill provides a means for Canada to fulfill its aspirations.”
What do you think is important for other leaders to understand about newcomer integration?
“Integration doesn’t just happen on its own—a supportive ecosystem is required. When it comes to helping people [restart their careers in Canada], there is a clearly identified gap in the marketplace for financial support that cannot be fulfilled by the public or financial sectors. Windmill bridges that gap. Yes, there is upfront investment, but the payoff and downstream impacts are so great, I think the dividends [for Canada] speak for themselves.”
What encouragement would you give to Windmill clients who are working to get back into their chosen professions in Canada?
“Canada needs you. Canada wants you. Windmill is here for you.”
What is your outlook for the future of Windmill?
“When I think about Canada’s needs in terms of productivity and skilled labour, the opportunity for Windmill is enormous ... to help newcomers, and also to help Canada fulfill its promises and to promote prosperity and social capital across the country.”
Claire Kennedy (P.Eng, B.A.Sc, LL.B. LL.D. (Hons)) is a member of our Campaign Cabinet. She is the Senior Advisor, Clients and Industries at Bennett Jones LLP in Toronto and until recently, served as Lead Director of the Bank of Canada, the nation's central bank. She is a Fellow of Engineers Canada and the Royal Canadian Geographical Society, and a Senior Fellow at Massey College, University of Toronto.
