Leadership Spotlight: Rhona Bekker
This month we're pleased to feature Lake Francis Resort's Resort Manager, Rhona Bekker, for Leadership Spotlight! Rhona was born and raised in South Africa, and moved to North America in the 80's with the desire for a better future for her young family. After the horror of 9/11 she decided they needed to start crossing things off their own bucket list, and not wait for the "perfect time". EA had just acquired Lake Francis and had posted a Workamper Ad in the fall of 2001- she applied, and this was to be the first, short leg of their journey....... well, the rest is history.
What experiences early in life contributed to your success with EA?
My parents were foster parents for many years in Africa when I was a young child. I remember feeling great compassion for the babies that streamed through our doors. Had no idea the impact it would have on my life as an adult but my husband and I felt the same desire to help others. Fostering for 12 years, volunteering with seniors and traveling with an orphan children's choir from Uganda.
What advice would you give to someone interested in working with youth in foster care?
We all play our own part in the big picture, and no matter your role with EA, everyone contributes to the success of the future generations.
What do you enjoy doing when you're not at work?
I enjoy quilting, knitting - actually most every craft. I love camping, hiking, gardening and of course the beach!
What's a hidden talent you have, or something about yourself that would surprise most people?
Something that might surprise people is that I'm deathly afraid of heights but have the ability to talk myself through it in 3 different languages.
Anything else you'd like to add?
I would truly love to see more of my colleagues in EA enjoying Lake Francis, especially considering the staff discounts. Sometimes it feels a little like an island in the middle of nowhere.