Chetna Sharma, 24, is a Northern Development officer with the Ministry of Northern Development, Mines and Forestry. She is a graduate of the John Molson School of Business at Concordia University. She is involved with several community organizations including Cultures of North Bay, Young Professionals in Business, and the Newcomer's Network.

Q: What is your greatest accomplishment?
A: If I had to pick one thing, I would say my proudest accomplishment has been attending a school in Nepal that was founded by Mother Teresa. That experience helped me to not only understand the meaning of generosity and kindness, but also live it. My friends and I would donate food and collect money to build shelters for the homeless. It is amazing to see what a group of 10 and 11 year olds can accomplish with a little bit of encouragement.

Q: Who is your most valued mentor?
A: My family, friends, and colleagues have all been very helpful and supportive.

Q: What do you love most about North Bay
      and area ?
A: Even though I have lived in seven different cities around the globe, North Bay has been a home-away -from-home. It has truly proven to be the "gateway" of opportunities. I was hesitant to move here alone, but the community has really shown me what it means to live in a caring and compassionate city.

Q: What else would you like to accomplish?
A: In this fast-paced society, it is very easy to forget the small things in life. I want to make sure that, as I live each day, I am able to appreciate, acknowledge and be thankful for the smaller and beautiful things life has to offer.