When and why did Emily join Alongside You?

I joined Alongside You recently, but my connection to the organization goes back much further. As the daughter of the founders, I’ve watched Alongside You grow from the very beginning, from its earliest days as a small, one-person operation to the vibrant, community-centred service it is today. Seeing firsthand how accessible, compassionate care can change lives is what inspired me to officially join the team and contribute to its mission in a more hands-on way.

What would Emily be doing if she did not pursue the career path she has right now?

If I weren’t pursuing my current career path in cognitive science, I would likely be working in a role that combines travel, creativity, and care for others. I’ve always been drawn to cooking and exploring different cultures. At one point, I seriously considered becoming a travelling private chef, a path that would allow me to connect with people through food while experiencing the world.

How does Emily relax when she is outside of work?

I relax through creative and restorative activities such as singing opera, cooking fusion dishes, practicing self-care, taking long hot showers, and winding down with a good sitcom. Spending time with friends at cafés and restaurants also helps me recharge.

What does Emily consider to be the most important value? 

Hard work is the most important value to me. Talent and passion are meaningful, but they only go so far without consistency, effort, and follow-through. Hard work shows up in being reliable, willing to learn, and committed even when things are challenging. It’s also one of the most transferable skills — it applies to every role, every team, and every stage of growth, and it’s what allows meaningful work to have real impact.