After living for 20 years in Toronto and working in print journalism, marketing and digital communications, it was Lucy Payette’s move to Winnipeg that drew her into Editors Canada. “I wanted to be part of a professional organization that would support my credentials and offer a network,” she says.
Editors Canada quickly provided those connections. After joining in 2019, she volunteered as a proofreader for The Editors’ Weekly. Within two years, she was managing editor. “It was a true editing workout,” says Lucy, who enjoyed the breadth of the weekly topics. “Anyone who wants to work in publications or in a creative role would benefit from working on the blog.”
Since joining the association, Lucy has volunteered in other capacities as well. She has been secretary of the marketing and communications committee and project owner of the ambassador program, reaching out to venues across Canada to present on the editing profession. She has also test-driven the Editors Canada Copy Editing professional certification exam.
Although Lucy has loved volunteering, she hungers for the days when people met in person and misses her fellow volunteers when they move on to other roles and new challenges. Still, she says, what she enjoys most about Editors Canada is “the opportunity to continue learning from expert editors and to try out new skills.”
Today, Lucy works as a technical editor at StandardAero. During her downtime, she enjoys cycling, running, skating and skiing the winter trails. “I like the heat,” she says, “but since moving to Winnipeg, I’ve learned to appreciate winter—even when it’s -20, it can be gloriously sunny. It can be hard to get out there at first, but once I do, I find it invigorating.”
The featured volunteer recognizes the contributions of our dedicated people who keep Editors Canada going. Volunteers are the backbone of the association, and we are grateful for the many members and affiliates who answer the call when help is needed.
Want to make a difference in your association? Find out more about volunteering for Editors Canada.
~S. Robin Larin