Colette Descent’s work in her community exemplifies the transformative power of individual initiative in fostering connection and empathy.
As a dedicated Compassion Connector for the Global Compassion Coalition, Colette’s journey began with a simple yet profound inspiration from the community building efforts of Stephen Taylor, a fellow Connector based in London, UK. Since then, she has embarked on a mission to nurture relationships and create meaningful change in her hometown of Canada.
Colette’s initiatives radiate a spirit of inclusivity and warmth, evident in her first endeavour—a Hot Chocolate Social gathering that brought together neighbours from every corner of her street. With nearly sixty attendees, both adults and children alike, this event served as a catalyst for deeper connections within the community. Recognizing the impact of such gatherings, Colette advocated for and secured the establishment of World Neighbour Day in her town, a celebration dedicated to fostering camaraderie and solidarity among neighbourhoods.
Colette has since forged partnerships with local stakeholders, including a magazine publisher, to amplify the reach of World Neighbour Day. By leveraging media platforms and distributing informational materials, she has ensured widespread participation in activities designed to strengthen community bonds. Through her efforts, Colette empowers individuals to become better neighbors, nurturing a culture of compassion and reciprocity.
Beyond organizing events, Colette’s commitment to compassion extends to her work at the Senior Centre, where she hosts monthly “compassion circles.” These intimate gatherings provide a space for shared learning and support, focusing on resilience, mindfulness, and emotional well-being. With a curated selection of literature, including works by Rick Hanson and Tara Brach, Colette facilitates meaningful discussions aimed at nurturing empathy and understanding.
In addition to her volunteer work at the Senior Centre, Colette dedicates her time to teaching and coaching seniors in the sport of pickle ball at the local Community Centre. Through patient guidance and personalized learning materials, she promotes physical activity while fostering a sense of belonging and comradeship among participants. Colette recognizes that happier individuals contribute to happier communities, creating a ripple effect of compassion and generosity.
As Colette transitions into her role as the National Lead for the Canadian Compassion Connectors group, her dedication to supporting community projects and initiatives remains unwavering. With her leadership, compassion becomes not just a virtue, but a guiding principle for collective action and positive change.
In Colette Descent, we find a shining example of how one person’s passion and commitment can ignite a wave of compassion, transforming communities and enriching lives. Through her tireless efforts, Colette inspires us all to embrace empathy, connection, and the boundless potential of compassionate action.
By Evans Ijakaa. Evans is a final year journalism student at Strathmore University in Kenya.