SYL Spotlight – Bonnie Reakes – The Saskatchewan Young Leaders

Let us introduce you to our fabulous vice chair, Bonnie Reakes! This is Bonnie’s first year with SYL, and we are lucky to have her. Here is a preview of what you would find from working with or being around Bonnie: she is smart, gets things done like she says she will, has a fun/bubbly personality, and is very open or welcoming. Those are only a few ideas, to list all her great traits would take too long!

Now that you know a bit about Bonnie, let us ask her some questions so we can find out more!

Tell us about you and your Credit Union journey. How did you get to where you are now?

Growing up in a Credit Union family, my dad was in the system most of his working career; the Co-operative values had always been instilled in me. I had an amazing opportunity to attend co-op camp in my youth which founded my interest in Co-operatives and Credit Unions. I went on with life and went down a different path, eventually ending up working at a big bank. The whole time my family is encouraging me to try to get a job in the Credit Union System. In 2014 I had the opportunity to make the leap over to a Credit Union. What a culture difference! It was the best decision I have ever made! I have been with the Credit Union ever since and couldn’t be happier to be employed by an organization that aligns with my personal values.

Why did you join SYL?

I have a desire to be involved in things, not only to expand my knowledge and experience but to support others in their journey. I was lucky to experience a couple of the wonderful events that SYL put on and I thought, how great would it be to be involved. What a great opportunity to bring similar experiences to other young leaders. Being able to collaborate with like-minded individuals is an incredible thing.

What are you most excited about this year for SYL?

I was truly excited for the Retreat; I haven’t had the opportunity to attend one in the past. Not only did I get to attend, I got to help plan! What a fun experience!

I am now super excited to see the new committee members in the coming months. I look forward to sharing my journey with new awesome individuals.

Now… for some fun!

If money, time and other people’s opinions didn’t matter, what would you be doing?

Honestly, I am not totally sure. I would of course get out and see the world more; it is such an incredible place, and I haven’t had a chance to explore far. Spend more time in my hammock enjoying nature. I would also possibly enjoy getting back into theatre, whether it is preforming, hosting on stage or even just taking tickets.

What is the best piece of advice you ever received?

A couple different things that stand out to me.

If you are feeling a negative emotion such as Anger with something you cannot change, let it happen. Feel it, yell, vent, cry, whatever you need to do. Set a timer, do this for 5 minutes. When it goes off, say to yourself, I can’t change it and let it go.

What someone else thinks of me is none of my business.

Favorite book you ever read?

The Happiness Equation – Neil Pasricha. It really speaks to how you can control certain aspects of happiness by perspective.

If Hollywood made a movie about your life, who would play you and why?

Natasha Lyonne, it’s the hair! Also, she is a bit rough around the edges and odd, which I can relate too. It would be such and honour.

If you were a Star Wars character, which one would you be and why?

I guess I would say Yoda. Talk proper Bonnie does not always.

What is the worst decision you’ve ever made?

I don’t know if I have a worst decision. Every decision good or bad has led me to where I am today. However, my life could be different if I was motivated for school when I was younger. I left school prior to finishing my grade 12 as I felt working was more beneficial. I didn’t end up getting my grade 12 until age 25, which is after my daughter was born. I don’t regret a thing but sometimes I think of where I could be.

I can also share a not-great decision that may make you chuckle. I did once use a dollar store children’s chair to grab something from the top shelf in my kitchen. This was an awful mistake with some interesting consequences. Not only did a damage my foot a bit but my daughter was also thoroughly upset I destroyed her chair. First mistake was the chair was from the dollar store…

What does the word Leadership mean to you?

Leadership to me means leading by example. Be supportive of people around you and guide them to reach their goals, whether you are their leader or a peer. Being open and inclusive while working hard so that people feel comfortable and trust.

Random Question: Is double-dipping ever okay?

What kind of question is that? Haha

If it is a Party for one, sure is! Otherwise no, just grab the smaller pieces so there is no need to double dip.

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