Volunteers are vital to the success of our organization, and we are grateful for the hundreds of hours our volunteers dedicate to the work of the Canadian Pride Historical Society. This volunteer spotlight is for Vassan Aruljothi, one of our Sr. Research Coordinators based out of Morden, Manitoba, read more below.

Before volunteering at the CPHS, what was the most unusual or interesting volunteer job you’ve ever had? 

Back in Malaysia, during school holidays, I have volunteered in the local zoo to clean up elephant excrements.

How did you first learn about the CPHS?

Through my dear friend Jonathan Niemczak.

How do you balance your volunteer time at the CPHS with your other competing priorities?

Proper organizational skills, and learning from past mistakes.

How has the CPHS helped you in your professional development?

It has certainly taught me how to be a Senior Research Coordinator, where I am required to show my leadership role. In comparison, as a research coordinator, I am mainly following the direction of someone else.

What advice do you have for prospective volunteers for the CPHS?

If you are interested in learning about being part of an organization and do research on Canadian Communities, pertaining to Pride festivals, then, you should definitely volunteer for CPHS. CPHS also attracts many professionals that are from multiple facets of the society with incredible skill sets to volunteer. So, volunteering for CPHS, is also an amazing networking opportunity.

What are 3 words to describe the CPHS?

Informative, supportive, and innovative.

What do you find the most challenging at the CPHS?

At times, looking for information could get frustrating, as, most pride related information were not properly recorded by any main stream news media. But, that is why CPHS exists’ in order to bridge that gap.

What do you like the most about the CPHS?

The board of directors and the friendships I form there. Also, the meeting are very hilarious.

What drew you to the CPHS originally? How has the CPHS changed since you’ve joined?

I joined CPHS, because Jonathan asked me to. But, since joining CPHS, I have learned a lot about Pride festivals in cities that I did research on, and as well as, learning how we could partner with organizations that are in tune with CPHS’ aspirations.

What has been your favourite project at the CPHS?

Looking for Pride related organizations across Canada, from coast to coast to coast.

What is your proudest moment at the CPHS?

When I attend every meeting that has been scheduled. It is easy to schedule meeting in my calendar, but, attending them is the real challenge. And my attendance has been decent thus far. So, every time, I make it to a meeting, I am proud of myself.