Alumna honoured with humanitarian award

By Jeff Green | Nov. 28, 2014

Gina Colbourne (BN’12) learned the real impact of volunteering at an early age. Growing up in Carbonear, N.L., she saw the sheer joy on kid’s faces while handing out loot bags at breakfast with Santa events. Since then, the third-year medical student has tirelessly led volunteer campaigns for groups like Oxfam Canada and Children’s Wish Foundation. She routinely reads for young children at the Janeway Children’s Hospital and organizes charity bake sales for her medical school class. For her dedication, Ms. Colbourne was presented with the 2014 Red Cross Young Humanitarian of the Year on Nov. 26. Contributor Jeff Green spoke with Ms. Colbourne about the honour and why volunteering matters to her.

Alumna Gina Colbourne. HSIMS Photo.JG: How does it feel to receive this award?
GC:
It feels wonderful, but to be honest, I’m still a little shocked. When I got the phone call saying I was this year’s recipient, the Red Cross representative said: ‘I assume you probably know why we are calling.’ My response was: ‘I really don’t!’ I have done lots of little projects and volunteer acts in my lifetime, but nothing I would consider to be an extreme grand gesture. As a volunteer, I certainly don’t seek recognition, but when it happens it’s a great feeling!

JG: In your mind, why do you feel you were chosen?
GC:
I was nominated by my classmates and friends. I’m really not sure why they chose me to nominate. I guess they have seen, first hand, the dedication I put into my projects. I pour my heart and soul into each bake sale, trivia night, and recycling drive. I like to see things succeed!

JG: Why do you volunteer?
GC:
It’s about the small differences you can make. You might not see it right away, but you'll feel it. It feels incredible. The benefits are immeasurable! In smaller communities, events and groups do not function without volunteers. The advances in research and awareness for many health-related organizations would never happen either if volunteers didn’t participate in fundraising campaigns.

JG: Tell me about your relationship with Memorial.
GC:
Memorial is my home. It has been for the past seven years. I plan on doing my residency here, too. Memorial is far more than an educational institution. I have had so many wonderful experiences with student groups, leadership programs and spirit building activities. Somewhere, someone is always looking out for you and helping you succeed. That is a beautiful thing.

JG: Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
GC: This is a question I ask myself every day. I'm at the point in my medical program where I soon need to choose my specialty. This is no easy task! So far, I have liked every discipline I have studied. I do know, however, that I would like to practice rurally and also get involved in some research and teaching. I also look forward to staying involved in the community as a volunteer or helping out with some community groups, maybe even some local politics. Who knows!


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