May 2018
(Fort McMurray) Girls Inc. of Northern Alberta and Syncrude are proud to announce the 12th nominee for the Women of Inspiration series 2017-2018:
Cindy Amerongen
Cindy Amerongen has lived in Fort McMurray for 27 years and during that time she has immersed herself in the community growing personally and giving back with enthusiasm and genuine energy. She has proven to be a natural mentor and community advocate. Her infectious smile, and ‘everyone’s friend’ attitude has made her unforgettable. She is often the first to identify gaps in community service; she will then find ways to create opportunities. She enjoys working with organizations involved in community development such as the Chamber of Commerce, Community Futures, and Northern Alberta Development Council. She served as the co-director for the 2015 Western Canada Summer Games.
Ms. Amerongen has been the Executive Director of the Northern Lights Health Foundation (NLHF) for almost two years and has proven herself to be a community leader. Her contributions to the community only make the community stronger. Melanie Antoine, Board Chair, NLHF dubs Ms. Amerongen as “being instrumental in leading the Foundation and in developing the NLHF’s gratitude (fundraising) campaign’s momentum after the fire.”
As the former vice president of external relations for Keyano College, Cindy went above and beyond to ensure that the college was always presented in a positive light. Starting as the book store manager, over 22 years she built an outstanding portfolio. Whether it was Marketing and Communications, the Foundation or just community relations, Cindy always worked hard for the college and empowered staff to do the same. Russell Thomas states that Cindy “is a proven bridge builder, always seeking win-win scenarios, and developing authentic and powerful relationships. As a manager she is empowering, encouraging and inspiring.”
When it came to the Aboriginal community, Ms. Amerongen was busy advocating and providing funding for educational opportunities throughout the region including creating scholarships and awards, and helping to create culturally appropriate learning spaces such as the Keyano College Fort Chipewyan Campus. Nominating Aboriginal leaders for awards and acknowledgement, working with Aboriginal business to expand work and contracting opportunities, funding cultural programs and services, and creating opportunities for involvement in health care are just a part of her goal to empower the Aboriginal Community.
With over 40 years of work experience, Ms. Amerongen has seen and conquered her share of challenges. ”I remember being cut from the workforce because the store I worked for was reducing its space by half. One manager had to be cut. The other two were men with families and I had no children so I was the one to go. This was a fairly common thing and taught me valuable lessons about being personally responsible for my educational goals, my employment and work goals and staying on top of my game to be seen as equal to the men.”
The very definition of strong, smart and bold. Cindy Amerongen is inspiration personified.
Girls Inc. of Northern Alberta will honour Cindy Amerongen and 11 other nominees at the Women of Inspiration Celebration which will take place June 16 2018.
The Women of Inspiration is a partnership between Girls Inc. of Northern Alberta and Syncrude, with a goal to recognize women throughout the Wood Buffalo region who inspire others, break new ground or old barriers and help create change. The series also aims to show local girls positive role models who live right here.
To nominate a woman of inspiration, please visit our website at www.girlsincofnorthernalberta.org or contact the Girls Inc. office at 780-790-9236.
For more information, please contact:
Ann Dort-MacLean
Executive Director – Girls Inc. of Northern Alberta
Phone: 780-790-9236
Email: girlsinc@telus.net
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