While Corrina Gavan is making a national impact through her involvement with Canada Employment and Immigration Union, one of her proudest achievements is seeing her son, Riley, thrive as they walk their own paths together.

Riley is a 20-year-old student in Digital Marketing Communications at Algonquin College doing his internship with the National Association of Friendship Centres as a Communications Assistant.

Many won’t know this, but Corrina is something of a communications specialist herself, often writing and doing graphic design work for CEIU.

Leadership, more than a title

Corrina is CEIU Alternate National Vice-President, Human Rights, the female Indigenous Representative on CEIU’s National Human Rights and Race Relations Committee, and Chair of the Ontario First Nation, Metis and Inuit Standing Committee.

“These are more than just titles to me — they’re ways I get to advocate for change, promote truth and reconciliation, and support our members in meaningful ways.”

When Riley was set to move away from home to start his studies, his mother eased his anxiety and encouraged him, promising to support him through thick and thin.

“Her kindness, resilience, and leadership inspire me daily — and I carry my family’s support with me in everything I do,” Riley said. “My mom has always been my biggest supporter. From encouraging my interests to simply being a great listener, she’s played a huge part in shaping who I am.”
 

Riley’s journey is a sharp reminder to his mom that what we do matters — not just in our workplaces and union, but for future generations watching us.

“It reminds me that leadership doesn’t just happen at a podium or in a meeting,” Corrina said. “It happens in everyday moments, in the support we give, the values we model, and the love we show. We’re not doing this alone. We’re walking this path together.”