There is always time for learning

When it comes to lifelong learning, Amanda Brazil walks the talk.

The new member of the Learning Partners Advisory Committee is working on her PhD in educational studies at UPEI. She also juggles her day-to-day responsibilities as a mother of two children and a full-time job as director of policy and programming with the Canadian Mental Health Association.

“I am passionate about lifelong learning – obviously, since I’m still at it,” said Brazil, 40. “I really believe we need to keep people questioning and broadening their outlook across a lifetime.”

The Mermaid, PEI resident became an advocate for adult education while working with women in a federal prison. It was there, she says, where she met many smart women who had missed opportunities.

“Our system didn’t work for them, but I kept reminding them if they change your focus, it’s not too late,” Brazil said. “I would tell them, ‘you’re so smart'.’”

Years later – when she was a researcher for Correction Services of Canada – a colleague told her she had found one of the former inmates Brazil knew.

“The former inmate was working on her social work degree and wanted to work in her community,” she said. “Sometimes structured education doesn’t work for people; for those people we need to figure out how we reach them later in life.”

Brazil heard about the Learning Partners Advisory Committee from a colleague at Canadian Mental Health Association who suggested she apply and praised her leadership, critical thinking, and communication skills at work. Brazil applied and was chosen through Engage PEI, which helps Islanders volunteer for the more than 70 provincial government agencies, boards, and commissions.

Brazil spends her remaining free time as a volunteer firefighter and also enjoys running, cycling, and enjoying the outdoors.