My Academic portfolio

Welcome to my academic portfolio, a comprehensive showcase of my dedication to child and youth care (CYC) leadership and ethical practice. Here, you'll find key projects and papers, demonstrating my commitment to impactful service and critical thinking within the field. This portfolio is designed for all who come across it to understand my skills and knowledge in Child and Youth Care

Featured academic work

Discover my featured academic work, a testament to my analytical skills and critical thinking in the realm of child and youth care. My projects, particularly my Personal Leadership Philosophy, my positionality statement and AOP goals in child and youth care, the ethical guidelines and decision making framework, my relational practice statement and collaboration plans, my trauma informed approach plan in CYC and Child and youth care management. All these reflect a deep commitment to fostering positive change and empowering young people. Explore how my academic journey, rooted in Moncton, New Brunswick, prepares me to be an effective and compassionate leader.

My Personal Leadership Philosophy  

Leadership: Self (1259-2717)

My Personal Leadership Philosophy (PLP) is built on the belief that leadership in child and youth care is a profound privilege and responsibility. It demands balancing organizational objectives with the lived realities of children, youth, and families, while upholding ethical practice. For me, leadership transcends authority; it embodies service, inspiration, and consistency. My approach is shaped by core values of consistency, respect, empathy, and collaboration, and guided by my experiences as a critical thinker, analytical person, listener, and change agent. I aim to create spaces where possibilities flourish for young people. I encourage you to reach out to discuss my work further.

My Leadership Essence:

•Philosophy: Consistent in care, authentic in service, transformative in impact.

•Core Values: Consistency, Respect, Empathy, Collaboration.

•Vision: Create experiences where youth feel seen, valued, and inspired to lead.

•Reimagine culture as a foundation not a barrier to empowerment.

Conclusion

My personal leadership philosophy is anchored in consistency, respect, empathy, and collaboration. It reflects my belief that leadership is service (servant leader), that youth deserve cutting-edge experiences of care, and that ethical practice must guide every decision. My philosophy does not change across roles; instead, my adaptability allows me to express it differently depending on context. Ultimately, I aspire to be a leader who inspires others through authentic presence, ethical action, and a commitment to creating environments where both youth and colleagues can thrive.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Positionality Statement and AOP Goals in CYC 

Diversity and Power in Child and Youth Care (1259-2714)

•I am a black African Canadian woman of faith, an immigrant, and a leader in the Child and Youth Care space in Canada.

•My guiding belief: 'What goes unnamed goes unchanged.' I believe in honest reflection and naming power.

•I faced linguistic bias early in Canada, learned the value of dignity and inclusive policy.

•Leadership means using privilege to challenge inequities and elevate marginalized voices.

Commitments and AOP goals

Commitment in Practice :

  • I use empathy, feedback, and dialogue to create inclusive spaces.
  • I transform reflection into habit through equity audits, round-robin speaking, and inclusive documentation.

Anti-Oppressive Practice Goals:

  • Shared Decision-Making: Center youth and frontline voices.
  • Reduce Linguicism & Class Barriers: Provide translation and equitable access.
  • Sustain Reflexive Leadership: Weekly bias audits and continuous learning.
  • Core Message: Anti-oppressive leadership means naming, sharing, and sustaining fairness

Conclusion

Across both tasks, the through-line is simple: name power honestly, treat lived experience as data, and redesign the “defaults” of care so the young people and workers furthest from power can shape the center. That is anti-oppressive leadership, daily, practical, and accountable.

Ethical Guidelines and Decision Making Framework 

Advocacy in Child and Youth Care (1259-2715)

My course in Advocacy in CYC, I focused on building ethical guideline and decision making framework in CYC. And it requires the following

  • Advocacy in child and youth care requires empathy, cultural humility, and accountability. These ethical guidelines shape how I engage with youth, families, and communities.
  • Cultural Humility: Commit to lifelong reflection, learning from others, and respecting cultural diversity.
  • Communication: Share accurate, respectful, and consent-based messages; use social media ethically
  • Community Engagement: Co-create advocacy strategies, build trust, and empower youth to self-advocate.
  • Legal Compliance: Follow the UNCRC (1991), CYFSA, and PIPEDA; uphold confidentiality and professional standards.
  • Reflection & Accountability: Maintain reflective practice, seek peer consultation, and prioritize self-care

Decision making framework for ethical dilemmas

  • Ethical dilemmas in advocacy often involve balancing rights, values, and responsibilities. This framework provides a practical approach to guided decisions:
  • Identify Issue, Gather Information, Analyze the principle, Weigh Options, Consult and Reflect, Decide and Act, Evaluate and Learn (Explore).

 

Relational Practice Statement and Collaboration Plan

Leadership: Relationships (1259 - 2718)

Relational practice statement

My relational practice statement finds it's true meaning and essence in the following"

  • Meaningful connections are at the heart of effective CYC. Every interaction holds potential to affirm a young person’s worth and create a sense of belonging.
  • Core Value: Respect, Integrity, Collaboration
  • Communication Style: Authenticity, Active listening, Cultural responsiveness
  • How I foster interaction: relying on mutual respect and creating moments of reflection. prioritizing collective efficacy
  • My relational practice philosophy centers on connection and care.
  • My goal is to lead and serve in ways that empower others, helping both teams and individuals believe in their ability to create change together

Collaboration plan

  • Team Member Collaboration Plan - is hinged on shared leadership, collective efficacy, and relational accountability.
  • External Partner Collaboration Plan - goal-driven partnerships that enhance the quality of care for youth. The approach and strategy focus on partnerships built on mutual respect, clear communication, and shared accountability. Significant challenges of differing priorities and standards are managed by finding common ground through shared values.
  • Community Member Collaboration Plan - focuses on engaging and empowering community members to be active partners in supporting the well-being of children, youth, and families. The strategy to achieve this is through community inclusion, cultural humility, and shared leadership. Significant challenges of mistrust are addressed through humility, listening deeply, and demonstrating consistency over time.

Trauma Informed Approach Plan

(Trauma Informed Practice (1259-2750)

SUMMARY

SMART GOALS & PREVENTION PLAN

This artifact summarizes a trauma-informed organizational plan grounded in collective care, cultural safety, and structural equity within my organization.

SMART Goals (1–3 Years timeline)

  • Individual Level: Establish consistent reflective and grounding practices.
    • Current: Inconsistent trauma-informed application.
    • Outcome: Staff demonstrate regulated, culturally responsive practice.
    • Steps: Weekly grounding circles, reflective shift check-ins.
    • Measurement: Staff surveys, youth incident reduction.
  • Program Level: Unified trauma-informed manual across 5 programs.
    • Steps: Cross-program committee, youth or staff co-design, piloting.
    • Measurement: Implementation fidelity, reduced staff confusion.
  • Organization Level: Integrated trauma-informed HR and supervision policies.
    • Steps: Policy audit, co-design, mandatory training.
    • Measurement: Staff retention, cultural safety audits.
  •  System Level: Formal trauma-informed community collaboration.

    - Steps: MOUs, cross-agency training, quarterly meetings.

    - Measurement: Number of MOUs, improved coordination.

Prevention Plan

• Prevent Vicarious Trauma: Quarterly reflective supervision.

- Rationale: Research-proven reduction in burnout.

- Challenge: Staff time constraints → Solution: Protected supervision hours.

• Prevent Moral Injury: Confidential ethics consultation pathway.

- Rationale: Reduces distress linked to value-conflicting directives.

- Challenge: Fear of retaliation → Solution: Confidentiality policy.

• Collective Care Shift: Bi-weekly resilience rounds.

- Rationale: Reduces isolation, builds cohesion.

- Challenge: Staff fatigue → Solution: Short structured sessions.

ACTIVE RESPONSE AND ADVOCACY

  • Active Response Plan
    • Ongoing Vicarious Trauma Response: Rapid Response Emotional Safety Protocol (RRESP).
    • Trigger: Staff overwhelm, repeated trauma exposure.
    • Roles: Supervisors activate; peers support; mental health partners consult.
    • Follow-Up: 72-hour check-in, documentation review.
  • Collective Care for Unexpected Incidents: Critical Incident Debrief Circles.
    • Trigger: Restraints, violent incidents, AWOL harm, systemic failures.
    • Facilitator: Trained staff lead; leadership attends as observers.
    • Follow-Up: Action recommendations and environmental adjustments.

Systemic & Structural Advocacy

  • Addressing Systemic Oppression: Culturally Safe Practice Framework.
    • Includes: pronoun policies, cultural mentors, and diverse signage.
    • Measurement: Cultural safety surveys, youth belonging indicators.

Child and Youth Care Management (1261-2177)

MANAGEMENT TOOLS FOR CHILD AND YOUTH CARE 

In this section of my e-portfolio, I present four management tools that I developed to enhance the effectiveness of Child and Youth Care (CYC) organizations.

These tools are:

1. Program Evaluation Template

2. Performance Evaluation Checklist

3. Mentorship Program Initiation Template

4. 1-Year Budgeting Schedule for Non-profit Organizations.

Each of these reflects my ability to design practical systems that promote quality care, staff development, and organizational accountability. 

These tools depict essential management competencies required for effective CYC leadership. The Program Evaluation Template highlights my strengths in strategic planning, outcome measurement, and continuous improvement. The Performance Evaluation Checklist demonstrates my ability to establish supportive processes that enable personnel development and ethical practice. The Mentorship Program Initiation Template reflects my commitment to skill-building, professional growth, and the cultivation of a positive organizational culture. The 1-Year Budgeting Schedule demonstrates my understanding of financial management, long-term planning, and the unique needs of non-profit organizations.

Developing these tools has prepared me for future leadership by deepening my understanding of how organizational systems influence daily practice. I carefully consider organizational needs, effective personnel support, and strategies to enhance outcomes for youth. I have begun introspecting since this assignment started and already adopted these tools in my own professional setting, where I co-run a youth non-profit with my sister. This process has strengthened my ability to set clear expectations, design accessible tools, and manage with both structure and empathy. Collectively, these examples demonstrate my growth as a reflective practitioner and an emerging leader committed to advancing CYC organizations.

 

For the management tool I built, please see the link to them below:

 1.    https://docs.google.com/document/d/1WCdCNKKdsDKgJ-D4Ohs_0647JnT6Lx7Q/edit?usp=drive_link&ouid=112042996015936227495&rtpof=true&sd=true - Program Evaluation Template

2.     https://docs.google.com/document/d/1UJ7noWz7ab8u01jdNVbeQTZF9ct6i0TX/edit?usp=drive_link&ouid=112042996015936227495&rtpof=true&sd=true - Performance Evaluation Checklist

3. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Cc6_IvE_HNwxLXWzYTVRXNt3RuWrQuB_/edit?usp=drive_link&ouid=112042996015936227495&rtpof=true&sd=true - Mentorship Program Initiation Template

4. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1yPdQ2AJqoE-ScEOhtp6cD9jr7EcKGeLV/edit?usp=drive_link&ouid=112042996015936227495&rtpof=true&sd=true - 1 Year Budgeting Schedule for Non Profit

 

 

SOME USEFUL LINKS:

Top 9 Nonprofit Funding Sources for Any Organization

How to Create a Nonprofit Operating Budget | Keela

Mentoring Programs: Top Features and Best Practices

Why evaluate your program?

 

 

 

Transition Planning (1261-2178)

 

In this course my e-portfolio artifacts was to create a series of infographics/posters based on the 8 Equitable standards for transitions to adulthood as outlined by the child welfare league of Canada. And this is based on my job experience as a youth worker. 

I created 4 posters/infographics for staff use at staff lounges or meeting places and 4 for the youth which can be posted in public spaces and youth areas. The 8 infographics/posters as I mentioned focuses on the 8 Equitable standards of transitioning and it's visually appealing and informative. I have the links to the 8 infographic/posters below:

STAFF:

1. Youth Right and Advocacy https://drive.google.com/file/d/1LdA0we-Mk-sxvHFTizJlPn8bFd93uhlw/view?usp=drive_link  

2. Relationship  https://drive.google.com/file/d/15s43GHK4HZvzpoxAiYFQbWyvWbfqYBv-/view?usp=drive_link

3. Health and Well being-  https://drive.google.com/file/d/1tdkaLz6m_0UeTUu5UXSh840uzDjq3Bn_/view?usp=drive_link  

4. Housing - Interdependence https://drive.google.com/file/d/15nwglKAZtNTaVhpUjhU-GUSpaOpbvGzS/view?usp=drive_link 

YOUTH:

1. Culture and Spirituality- This points to the fact that in transitioning Lifelong Connection is important and this is grounded on the pillar of culture and spirituality - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1OOApxL3WU9ZD0b-xVSk4MIFiuQhNPkRF/view?usp=drive_link

2. Advocacy and Rights- This explains that Youth Voice Matters and it is founded on the pillar of advocacy and rights - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VrjdN4W7Tcn_aT2FbzgniNGbuSaeQUP7/view?usp=drive_link

3. Financial and Educational and Professional Development:  This seeks to allow the youth understand that It's okay for them to need help and this is founded on the financial and educational professional development. - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lL6rL7Ag1n2rKq3pgT7LqhqqWXtY283K/view?usp=drive_link

4. Emerging Adulthood Development- Youth Readiness: This seeks to explain that youth readiness in transition is more important than being fixated on the age out age  - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1sHJlYu_OPTBLiyT-_X7SETkVUbRDKveU/view?usp=drive_link

 

I have the justification of the posters created. please see below:

This poster collection was designed for the Youth Transitions Program within Child Protection Services in New Brunswick, this directly supports youth preparing to transition from care into adulthood. The chosen organization and site align closely with the 8 Equitable Standards for Transitions to Adulthood outlined by the Child Welfare League of Canada, with particular emphasis on readiness, relationships, and interdependence rather than age-based independence.

The posters are intentionally divided between staff-focused and youth-focused audiences. Staff posters will be placed in staff lounges and meeting spaces to encourage reflection on daily practice and reinforce trauma-informed, relational approaches. These posters highlight how standards such as lifelong connections, youth-centered planning, holistic well-being, and interdependence should guide decision-making, case planning, and transitions. Practical prompts and reflective questions were included to support implementation within existing policies, such as Extended Care and Support Services (ECSS).

Youth-oriented posters are designed for waiting areas and common spaces where youth naturally spend time. These posters use clear, youth-friendly language and affirming messages to reduce anxiety, normalize fear, and reinforce that support does not end at a specific age. Each youth poster connects directly to real-world New Brunswick resources, helping youth understand where and how to access ongoing supports such as mental health services, housing, and aftercare programs.

Course concepts were intentionally integrated throughout the designs, particularly the shift from independence to interdependence, the importance of youth voice, and the recognition that most young adults rely on relational and financial support well into their twenties. The posters challenge the traditional “aging out” narrative and instead promote readiness-based, relational transitions that reflect real-life experiences.

Overall, this poster collection aims to support both staff and youth in moving from survival-focused transitions toward equitable, supportive, and relationship-centered pathways to adulthood.

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Social Innovation (1261-2179)

In this course my e-portfolio artifacts was to create comprehensive multisector collaboration toolkits that is designed to facilitate and enhance collaborative efforts in child and youth care social innovation projects. The toolkit's designed to demonstrate my ability in develop practical tools for fostering effective partnerships across various sectors.  I developed a total of 5 toolkit and they are as follows: 

 

1. Two Visual Tools which illustrates: 

a) Benefit and Challenges of multisector collaboration - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XgrmeFkg-oWoCEyIxHg-5_4O0TrOc3t8/view?usp=drive_link -  This is an infographic that visually synthesizes the key benefits and structural challenges of multisector collaboration in child and youth care to promote accessible understanding and critical awareness.

b) A step by step process of maintaining multisector partnerships- https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lFQHVM0uBstgeLjoBdXnPAeuI6Yg4M8k/view?usp=drive_link - This flowchart outlines a structured, ethical, and goal-oriented process for initiating and sustaining effective multisector collaborations. 

2. Template for an invitation to collaborate letter: https://docs.google.com/document/d/13b1ZWcouN3i0RDfk8DtLrUW85zbEoMfy/edit?usp=drive_link&ouid=112042996015936227495&rtpof=true&sd=true - This template formalizes partnership outreach by clearly articulating shared purpose, mutual benefits, and collaborative expectations. 

3. Press Release & Social Media Guide Sheet: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1a8gpkMCsxz1GPbiWNxs7632qa1wzf-Hf/edit?usp=drive_link&ouid=112042996015936227495&rtpof=true&sd=true - This guide provides strategic and ethical communication frameworks to amplify community voice and foster meaningful participation in social innovation initiatives

4. Multisector Collaboration Phone Call Log: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1685RUgZNymUnhv3LROBjfA5iAG3HrYiK/edit?usp=drive_link&ouid=112042996015936227495&rtpof=true&sd=true - This documentation tool ensures transparency and accountability by linking communications to project goals, responsibilities, timelines, and ethical considerations

My reflection on my development of all 5 multisector collaboration toolkit I designed.

As I worked on the Multisector Collaboration Toolkit, I turned ideas about collaboration and community empowerment into practical tools for child and youth care. Multisector collaboration brings together diverse expertise, helps people work together, and creates a greater impact (Community Toolbox, n.d.). This assignment taught me that good collaboration needs clear rules, openness, and fair sharing of power so that youth and community voices come first.

When I made the infographic and flowchart, I had to break down complex ideas like working across sectors, power imbalances, and shared responsibility into visuals that are easy to understand. Research shows that multisector collaboration builds trust, reaches more people, and sparks new ideas by including different viewpoints (Basel Institute on Governance, n.d.). But it also has challenges, such as communication problems, cultural differences, and difficulties measuring results. This made me realize that clear communication is not only about design; it is also an ethical responsibility. Using too much technical language can keep youth and families away from taking part in a real way.

Writing the press release and social media guide made me more aware of how communication can either support or challenge unfairness. Real community empowerment means making decisions together, including everyone, and respecting different cultures (New Brunswick Community College [NBCC], n.d.). Following ethical guidelines, like getting consent and using trauma-informed language,  showed me the dangers of using youth stories without real involvement. This experience taught me that empowerment should be built into the process, not just shown on the surface.

While developing the invitation-to-collaborate template, I realised  how important it is to build relationships and build them right from the start. Good multisector projects need a shared vision, clear roles, and clear set expectations (Community Toolbox, n.d.). Seeing collaboration as a team effort, not just a transaction, helps build trust and lasting partnerships. This process of creating these toolkits made me value relational leadership even more in child and youth care. From our Module 3 A practitioner’s handbook material on Social Accountability, it underscored the importance of accountability systems. Maintaining proper records promotes transparency, prevents misunderstandings, and strengthens project evaluation (NBCC, n.d.).    The Phone call Log documentation tool, by linking each call to project goals, responsibilities, timelines, and ethical considerations, I saw and appreciated the fact that documentation supports fairness, it ensures commitments are tracked and amplifies youth voices in decision-making.

Overall, this assignment has changed how I see multisector collaboration. I now view it as a practical, ethical approach that needs careful planning. It improved my skills in systems thinking, planning, and inclusive communication. Most importantly, I am more committed to putting youth voices first, addressing power imbalances, and ensuring collaboration is transparent. This toolkit highlights my growth in technical skills and as a reflective, equity-focused practitioner. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

After creating the toolkits, 

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