Q&A with Board Member Paige Derksen
We’re shining a well-deserved spotlight on the incredible individuals on LiveDifferent’s board of directors!
Each person plays a pivotal role in guiding LiveDifferent’s vision, strategy and impact, fueling our mission to create positive change in the world. Their unwavering dedication, expertise and boundless compassion have been instrumental in transforming countless lives and communities.
Prepare to be uplifted as we uncover untold stories, wisdom gained and the passion that drives this team to make a difference.
Meet Paige Derksen
Paige is the newest member of the LiveDifferent team and a dedicated realtor residing and working in Winnipeg. With a heart for community involvement, Paige’s journey with LiveDifferent began around ten years ago when her aunt, uncle, and cousins – who were already engaged with the organization – shared their experiences of participating in various Builds. Inspired by their stories, Paige and her immediate family started attending LiveDifferent galas and providing financial support from the inception of the event.
Driven by a personal desire to contribute on a deeper level, Paige took the initiative to involve her work team at Marcia Bergen Group in supporting the Freedom Village. Every year, a portion of their commissions from each transaction goes towards ensuring the safety and well-being of a girl living in the village. Given her profession as a realtor, Paige recognizes the importance of secure housing and finds it fulfilling to give back to the community in this manner.
Q: What inspired you to join the LiveDifferent Board of Directors?
A: I was motivated to join the board at LiveDifferent because I wanted to give back uniquely, beyond just money. I planned to invest my time and energy to make a real impact and help improve the lives of others. By actively engaging with the organization, I aim to use my skills and dedication to make a meaningful difference and support its mission.
Q: What is your favourite thing about being a board member?
A: Since joining the board, I’ve loved two things: making new connections and getting an inside look at how the organization really works. It’s given me a better understanding of how I can help out and encourage others to give back too. I’m excited to explore more ways to support the cause and inspire a culture of giving.
Q: If you could pick one project or initiative that you are most proud of, what would it be and why?
A: One achievement that fills me with pride is the Freedom Village in Haiti. Witnessing its growth and development since my initial involvement with LiveDifferent has been truly remarkable.
It is incredibly exciting to see the village open its doors, and even more so to have the opportunity to support a girl, providing her with a safe living environment and access to education. I am thrilled and deeply excited to watch the girls in the Freedom Village heal, recover and grow. Their safety and well-being are of paramount importance, and knowing that they can now live in a secure environment fills my heart with joy.
The Marcia Bergen Group, the team I am part of, is excited to be partnering with LiveDifferent and eagerly anticipates the incredible work that lies ahead at the Freedom Village. We are committed to witnessing the positive impact and transformation that will shape the lives of these girls in the future.
Q: How has your experience with LiveDifferent changed you as a person?
A: My experience with LiveDifferent has enhanced my empathy, compassion and commitment to making a positive impact. I have gained a broader perspective, developed resilience and deepened my sense of purpose. Overall, LiveDifferent has transformed me into a more socially conscious and proactive individual dedicated to creating positive change by living differently every day.
Q: What advice would you give to someone considering getting involved with LiveDifferent?
A: Just do it! Even if you think your contributions won’t make a difference, know that they will. Every bit helps and it doesn’t always have to be financial, it can be your time and energy – but everything helps!
Learn more
We are immensely grateful to the extraordinary individuals like Paige who make up our board of directors. We are privileged to have such an exceptional group who wholeheartedly believe in our vision and generously share their time, skills and resources to ensure our success.
Don’t miss out on the chance to connect with the incredible minds behind the scenes. Learn more about our team and get inspired to create change alongside them.
Together, we can make a real and lasting impact!