Growing up in Steveston, Sally Poon was always passionate about creating a sense of community. Starting in elementary school and continuing through to high school, Sally found enjoyment in engaging in various volunteer activities. Whether she was part of the yearbook committee or student council, she thrived in roles which allowed her to interact with others and to develop her leadership skills.
Overcoming challenges at BCIT
When Sally enrolled in the BCIT Computer Systems Technology Diploma program, she sought to immerse herself into what she thought would be a vibrant student community, but the BCIT Downtown Campus posed a unique challenge.
“I was part of a satellite campus” she explains. “I knew I would have to work hard to build the community I was looking for.”
Compounding the challenge, Sally was in the IT field where she was a minority in a male dominated industry. She wanted to fit in and to feel a sense of belonging.
“When I started in computer science, I was maybe one of five females in my class,” recalls Sally, “I felt intimidated, but I was determined not to succumb to that feeling by being more engaged and creating opportunities to connect with professionals and students and put myself out there.”
Expanding into other leadership roles
She not only got out there and participated, but she led. Recognizing the importance of connections, she took on several leadership roles to bring people together and to make them feel welcomed. Sally began as a Set Rep for her cohort, acting as a liaison between her peers and instructors, and helping to keep people organized. She then branched out and took on roles which exposed her to larger audiences. She was the Treasurer and Communications Director for Women in Computing, Councillor for the BCIT Student Association (BCITSA), Co-President of the Computing Club, and BCITSA Chair of the Downtown Campus.
Ever the humble leader, and despite her significant contributions to enhance student experiences, she credits her success to the support she received from fellow students.
“Even though I led the charge, I didn’t do it alone,” Sally says. “There were many people behind everything I did to help me piece everything together.”
Purposeful events for deeper connections
Wanting to build connections with professionals and industry, Sally organized a Hackathon during her co-op term to give students the opportunity to showcase their work. Building upon the previous year’s event, she invited mentors and BCIT alumni to provide feedback and professional development support to over 100 participants in a simulated competition.
Another notable achievement was the destress event that Sally introduced to provide students a much-needed break from their studies, prevent burn out, and foster a sense of community.
“I wanted to create a small break for students to come and hang out with their friends for a bit and then get back to studying after feeling refreshed,” reflects Sally. “With the opening of the Tech Collider, I had a vision of making this beautiful open space that everyone passes by into a place where people can connect.”
As a result of gathering input from Set Reps and students about what they would like to see, Sally was able to deliver a well-received event featuring a variety of board and video games, snacks, and beverages.
The journey continues
Today, Sally is a software engineer with Okta, a software development company specializing in identity and access management. While she remains committed to working on her leadership abilities and taking on new challenges, her journey will continue to be shaped by her resilience, dedication, and passion for community building.
BCIT is proud to recognize Sally Poon with the 2024 Outstanding Student Leadership Award at the Distinguished Awards being held on November 14, 2024.