WC134 JanFeb 2024 - Magazine - Page 5
EDITOR’S NOTE
The Power of Understanding
PROJECTS l POLICY l INNOVATION
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024 • VOLUME 24, NUMBER 1
EDITOR
Jen Smith
VICE PRESIDENT, CONTENT & PARTNERSHIPS
Corinne Lynds
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS
John Tenpenny, Connie Vitello
ART DIRECTOR AND SENIOR DESIGNER
Gordon Alexander
CONTENT CONTRIBUTORS
Selina Lee Anderson, Saul Chernos,
Vincent Cormier, Jeff Cutler,
Trevor Herriot, Andrew Kirkwood,
Robert Pye, Katina Tam
WATER CANADA ADVISORY BOARD
Stephen Braun, Melissa Dick, Gregary Ford,
Jon Grant, Robert Haller, Linda Li,
Michael Lywood, Eric Meliton, Ranin Nseir,
Terry Rees, Emily Stahl
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Vanessa Watson, vanessa@actualmedia.ca
DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER
Charlotte Stone
DIRECTOR OF EVENTS
Sarah Wensley
PRESIDENT
Todd Latham
PUBLISHER
Nick Krukowski
ADVISOR
James Sbrolla
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A FEW WEEKS AGO, I called my city councillor. To be honest,
I felt a little foolish. Like I should somehow already know the
answers to the questions I wanted to ask, and that in even asking,
I had committed some grown-up faux pas that others would laugh
about behind my back.
My councillor and I talked for an hour. He listened to me. He used plain words.
And a week later, he followed up with an email.
And in return, he got something invaluable: my buy-in.
As adults, we often shy away from asking for clarification, burdened by the misconception that we should already have the answers. But this can become a barrier
to progress, muffling the exchange of vital ideas and inhibiting engagement before
it even has a chance to spark.
But when we close the gap between expertise and everyday experience, we lay
the groundwork for inclusive learning and meaningful engagement. This is where
ideas take root and challenges inspire collective action.
When I put together an issue of Water Canada, I pretend I know nothing about
water. I want to reach readers where they are. I want stories that provoke discussions at water coolers, in town hall meetings, and over backyard fences. I want
experts to feel more like clarifiers than gatekeepers and for information to be accessible and digestible. Because at the end of the day, we can’t have a conversation if
we don’t understand what we’re talking about.
So, whether it’s explaining the nuances of mining reclamation, the complexities
of community involvement in shoreline protection, or the critical nature of flood
mapping, it’s an opportunity to demystify the world of water; to offer an invitation
to be a part of the story we’re writing as global citizens; and ultimately, to buy-in.
My exchange with the city councillor not only underscored the power of asking
and understanding but also reminded me that vulnerability is not a weakness,
rather, there is profound strength in admitting the need to know more. As I reflect
on this lesson, I'm embarking on a new chapter in my journey. This editorial marks
my last for Water Canada. I am transitioning to a new role where I'll continue
to champion conservation and stewardship, while forever asking questions and
seeking deeper understanding. The thirst for knowledge that fueled my time at
Water Canada will continue to drive me to explore, learn, and contribute in new
and meaningful ways.
I hope that, even in a small way, my passion for stories and boundless curiosity
will leave an indelible imprint on the narrative of water. That my perspective may
inspire others to keep questioning, to deepen their understanding, and to actively
participate in the vital conversation about our resources. Because when we embrace
our unique perspectives, fearlessly ask questions, and engage with an open and
inquisitive mindset, we can ensure that this story—one of care, stewardship, and
collective responsibility—continues to inspire and provoke thought for generations
to come.
Jen Smith is the editor of Water Canada. jen@actualmedia.ca
COMING UP IN THE NEXT ISSUE: MARCH/APRIL
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