HELP REWARDS
Ann Mathulla
Age 17, Grade 12, Bishop Reding Catholic Secondary School
How did you come up with the idea?
Every high school student is required to complete 40 hours of volunteer work in order to graduate. Unfortunately, many students save it for the last minute, and are scrambling to find organizations that need volunteers. I read about a company that rewards people for doing good for themselves such as eating healthy and doing more exercise, and thought I could apply the same concept for volunteering, in which people receive rewards for doing good for others. That way students would be more motivated to start volunteering early and continue beyond high school.
Who do you look up to and why?
The person who I look up to most is my great-uncle, an entrepreneur who arrived in the United States over 40 years ago. Although he experienced many failures while trying to start his own business, he persevered and now runs his own multi-million-dollar company. I hope to be like him and start my own successful business, remaining determined and not giving up even when obstacles arise.
What’s next for you?
I will be going to Queen’s University next year where I will be pursuing a Bachelor of Commerce. I hope to be able to utilize the people and resources available there to make HELPrewards come to life.
What did you learn from Pythons’ Pit ?
I first participated in Pythons Pit when I was in grade 9. I was very timid and had no idea about business. After participating in the competition however, I discovered my passion for business and will now be pursuing it in University. These past three years in Pythons Pit have helped me develop my presenting and networking skills, which I otherwise would not have learned in the classroom. This program has also provided me with many leadership opportunities both in school and in the community. I attribute all of the success I have gained thus far in high school to this program.
Ann’s Mentor: Michelle Stanford, Oakville, ON
Michelle holds diverse roles as executive management consultant, specializing in Sales and Marketing excellence, relationship coach and ordained priest in the Anglican Church.
Why did you choose to be a mentor?
I chose to be a mentor to share my experience and insights to support others’ success.
What have you got out of mentoring?
I very much enjoy the dynamic of collaborating, coaching and encouraging my mentees. Their enthusiasm and commitment is inspiring and their appreciation of my support is wonderful.