Season 4, Episode 6 | Guest: Ken Lima-Coelho – International Youth Day

In this special International Youth Day episode of Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham, Anne-Marie sits down with Ken Lima-Coelho, who is a dynamic storyteller, community builder, and President & CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Calgary and Area. With over 25 years of experience spanning broadcasting, the arts, and youth-focused initiatives, Ken has dedicated his career to amplifying voices, building connections, and creating opportunities for young people to thrive. 

During their conversation, Ken shares his journey from his family's immigrant roots to becoming a leader in youth mentorship. He emphasizes that standing firm on values like equity is more important now than ever. The discussion provides a powerful look at how mentorship transforms lives, not just for young people, but also for the mentors themselves. It highlights the resilience and skills needed for the future of work, community, and society.

Join us to hear Mr. Lima-Coelho’s vision for unlocking the potential of youth in Canada, why volunteerism matters for everyone’s growth, and how each of us can be a catalyst for change. Tune in now on your preferred podcast platform, or visit: ccdi.ca/podcast. 

Key Points From This Episode:

• Ken’s diverse experience and his personal story. 
• Building trust in community initiatives. 
• What community and social good are truly built on. 
• The life-changing role of mentorship.
• Why mentorship is mutually beneficial. 
• How Ken saw his child develop after mentoring a younger child.
• Why the ultimate job of a mentor is not mentorship but creating resilience.
• What is behind Ken’s belief that we are all born leaders.
• The plummeting rate of volunteerism in Calgary.
• Why it is so beneficial to help others. 
• A source of hope for the future: Generation Alpha. 

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

• Ken Lima-Coelho on X
• Ken Lima-Coelho on LinkedIn
• Ken Lima-Coelho on Instagram
• BBBS Calgary
• Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion
• See Different Canada
• Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham