Paula Bowen

Hailing from Berriew, Wales, United Kingdom, Paula Bowen has called Fort McMurray home for the past 14 and a half years.

She is the Program Director at the Autism Society of the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, and the Early Learning Coach at The GRIT Program. Paula shared with YMM about what she would like to see in our community, her motivations, and more.

YMM: What keeps you in Fort McMurray?

PB: The people! Fort McMurray provides a strong sense of community and belonging. When I first moved here, I was blown away by the kindness and generosity of the community and almost 15 years later, I am still blown away by how much this community steps up to help those in need.

YMM: In your opinion, in what areas does Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo need improvement?

PB: Support for the Early Learning and Childcare sector – it is crucially undervalued and underfunded. In the last few years, our region has lost many experienced and passionate Early Childhood Educators to other careers as they have been undervalued, underpaid and under supported while working in childcare in our region.

YMM: What accomplishment are you most proud of?

PB: The successful development and running of a social-respite program in Fort McMurray for children and youth with social communication disabilities.

YMM: What motivates you?

PB: The children and youth I support! Seeing them learn new skills and conquer personal goals motivates me more than anything.

YMM: What is the biggest challenge you’ve taken on this year?

PB: Expanding one of our programs at the Autism Society RMWB… without the funding to expand!

YMM: How should success be measured?

PB: Being able to fall asleep at night knowing that you helped someone today.