The Faculty of Physical Education and Recreation will see its first student, Zianna Esmail (3rd year Bachelor of Kinesiology - Adapted Physical Activity), enter into the Peter Lougheed Leadership College this September. The College, which is located on the U of A 's North Campus, will be a broad, inclusive undergraduate leadership development program that will forge leaders through formal and co-curricular learning engagement and mentorships.
The College seeks to create future leaders with skills and values that will enable them to guide positive change in the world through their commitment to "uplifting the whole people", the U of A's founding promise.
"Until I transferred into the Faculty of Physical Education and Recreation from Science, I wasn't entirely sure what I wanted to do as a career. I found my niche in the area of Adapted Physical Activity. I knew I wanted a career in this field and was inspired to gain the skill set and leadership capabilities to have more of an impact on the adapted community."
Students will learn the understanding and study of leadership in an interdisciplinary environment, working with students across various faculties, professors and community leaders, to expose the challenges and different styles in program solving and leadership.
Crossing paths in PERLS 204 Canadian History of Leisure, Sports and Health, her professor Dr. Pearl Ann Reichwein saw something special in Zianna.
"She is a talented young academic driven by ethical commitments to diversity and equity. I have no doubt Zianna will bring new sensibilities to innovate and achieve positive social change by uplifting the whole people"
Through study and practice that ranges from occasional interaction in leadership events to immersive learning experiences, Zianna and fellow students will gain the skills and knowledge to become leaders; use critical thinking skills; act on values based on ethical and social responsibility; understand diverse perspectives; and are innovative, respecting the past but focusing on the future.
"No matter the area or profession I work in after graduation, I will likely be required to work within a group of people who have different backgrounds and different approaches to solving problems. My hope is that I can gain the experience to help deal with this" said Zianna
The Peter Lougheed Leadership College will develop Zianna's focus on listening, sharing and collaborating in a group setting, one that would be a critical asset in working in a physio or occupational therapy setting.
"I'm hoping to go into Rehab Medicine after my undergraduate degree is completed. I plan to use what I learn as a Peter Lougheed Leadership College scholar to help change perceptions of disability to see different abilities instead."
As Active Living Coordinator for the Aga Khan Youth and Sports Board in Edmonton, Zianna has direct experience implementing national ParticipAction objectives. She also volunteered to teach special needs children how to ride bicycles as part of You Can Ride 2, observed her professor.
"Zianna's work and volunteer experience involves multidisciplinary collaboration with interdisciplinary problem solving as well as public education, activism, and a sustained interest in civil society. This is what it takes to advance solutions in our world." said Dr. Reichwein
The College looks to create self-awareness in the students and help them understand what their strength are and how to utilize these to empower people, make people feel comfortable in diverse groups and in facilitating the break down of silos.
"I'm not sure how I will change the world (a question the College asks you in your application), but I hope that by opening myself up to new experiences, lessons and people, I can gain the tools to help others do the same."
Learn more about Peter Lougheed Leadership College here or by watching this informational video here