On May 14^th, CDSBEO hosted an inspiring Asian Heritage Month presentation featuring Jackie Perez, a talented Filipino-Canadian journalist who shared her experiences, insights, and journey. Jackie, who moved to Canada at the age of two, spoke passionately about her cultural heritage, her career in broadcast journalism, and the importance of representation. 

During the presentation, Jackie highlighted the challenges and rewards of her career, sharing how her experiences in smaller media markets helped her develop critical skills in reporting, writing, and storytelling. She encouraged students to embrace their unique perspectives and recognize the value they bring to any field they choose. 

One of the key messages of the presentation was the importance of empathy, relationship-building, and clear communication. Jackie emphasized that effective storytelling, both in journalism and in life, requires the ability to connect with others and share meaningful narratives. 

Students had the opportunity to ask questions, gaining insights into the importance of strong writing skills, which Jackie described as the foundation of successful storytelling, whether on camera, in radio, or in print. 

We are so grateful to Jackie Perez for sharing her story, inspiring our students, and celebrating the richness of Asian heritage. Her words served as a reminder that embracing our diverse backgrounds can lead to incredible personal and professional growth.