Meet the Herd: Simone
Meet one of the Zebra Centre’s Justice Navigators, Simone! She shares what she loves most about her role, what motivates her to show her stripes, and much more!
Q: Tell us about your role as a Justice Navigator at the Zebra Centre.
Simone: As a Justice Navigator, my job is to help families through the court process, starting as soon as a court date has been booked. I provide court updates, book court preparation, canvass testimonial aids, accompany kids to court, and work with our community partners (crown’s office, Saffron Centre, SACE, Encompass, etc.) to best support our kiddos and their families.
Q: What does a typical “day in the life” as a Justice Navigator look like?
Simone: Every day is different! Some days I’m in court supporting kiddos as they testify, and some days I’m attending crown meetings and court preparation sessions. Each day though, I schedule a few hours to connect with families over the phone to book court preparation appointments, provide emotional support, and canvass testimonial aids.
Q: What do you love most about your role?
Simone: I initially joined Zebra because I wanted to be a true advocate for some of the most vulnerable populations in society- children who have experienced abuse. I love being able to come to work every day and know that I can make small differences with big impacts- like booking court prep so kiddos know what they can expect the day of court or working with crowns to book testimonial aids, so kiddos are set up for success!
Q: What is your proudest moment at the Zebra Centre so far?
Simone: I’m so proud of how amazing our entire team works together. It is so clear whenever I come to work that everyone is here to support the kiddos we serve, and to make a difference in their lives.
Q: What motivates you to show your stripes (your why)?
Simone: Seeing families and kiddos come to the centre can be tough, but watching them leave with the support they need, feeling more optimistic about the investigative and justice process is what motivates me to show my stripes every day!
Q: Lastly, share a surprising or fun fact about you.
Simone: I was a third-culture kid! I was born in Canada to Canadian and Guyanese parents, but spent most of my childhood growing up in Abu Dhabi, UAE!