Interesting fact: Leysa's adventurous nature has put her in some exciting and challenging situations, including landing a hot air balloon on the mountains of New Zealand where she was rescued by helicopter.
Leysa Cerswell joins the Free The Children team as a communications coordinator with a keen commitment to social justice and youth empowerment. A true optimist, she believes that anything is possible, and is continuously inspired by the truth and wisdom shared by young people in their plight to end poverty, hunger and social injustices around the world. She brings enthusiasm and creativity to the many diverse groups of people she connects with, from kindergarten classes to adult audiences worldwide.
Leysa began her career as a social activist in 2003 when she embarked on a nine-month volunteering and exploring expedition which spanned three continents. She then went on to attend Hamilton's McMaster University, graduating in 2007 with an honours bachelor of arts in cultural studies and communications. During her time in Hamilton, Leysa thrived on the grassroots social action sprouting around the city. She joined a dedicated group of local individuals developing free after-school arts programs for children living in poverty, and soon after, began working for Environment Hamilton, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of Hamilton's wildlife. These were experiences which strengthened not only Leysa's commitment to children's rights and environmental preservation, but her sense of responsibility to take action in social causes.
In her spare time, Leysa delights in the strong sense of community she is discovering here in Toronto. She has a deep respect and zeal for all things that grow, including her treasured vegetable garden, and people of all ages. Besides gardening and being inspired by her many heroes, her favourite things are camping, music with soul, unconditional love, and studying quantum physics.