woman in a pink top standing at a podium speaking with a powerpoint slide behind her that says Queer 101

Aime’s Why

When Aime was born in 1976, she was only given a 24hr chance of survival.  Having been born 3 months early with a birth weight of 1 pound 12 ounces (787 grams) it was a very scary time for her entire family.

Yet Aime overcame this and grew into a beautiful young girl.  During her elementary school years, she experienced severe bullying for 6 years from her peers.  Due to the daily, and constant bullying Aime began to believe that she was stupid, ugly, and a loser.

As well as being diagnosed as a ‘slow learner’ by the education system.  The teachers and administration said that Aime would never write well, and would have problems in all core subjects while in school.  Even through the days of tears and struggle with homework, and bullying, Aime kept going.  Aime never gave up though, even winning her grade 8 graduation Most Improved Student Award.

As if her belief in herself was low enough, Aime also experienced dating violence while living away from home on campus at the University.  Being in a controlling and emotionally abusive relationship played havoc on her self-confidence.  As well as stalking by the ex-boyfriend after breaking up with him.

Coming out later in life as a lesbian Aime remembers the fears like they were yesterday. She wants youth and adults who are from diversified groups to feel safe and supported in all areas of their lives. This is why she is a coach to youth helping them 1:1 with their own coming out journey. As well as a trainer to businesses about the LGBTQ2S+ Community using the tool she created on how employers can create safe and welcoming workspaces for all employees.