JUSLEEN: BREAKING ALL THE BARRIERS
Q. Tell us about yourself.
I was born in Red Deer Alberta and moved to British Columbia about fifteen years ago. During this time, my passion for karate grew, and with support from an incredible network of coaches and family, I secured my spot on the Canadian National Karate team in 2006. Since then I garnered national titles under my belt and worked hard to take my sports career to the next level, the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
Q. What do you want to achieve in your life?
My short-term goal as of right now is to compete in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. For the first time, karate will be recognized as an official Olympic sport, and it would be the highest of honors to represent my country alongside the greatest athletes in the world.
Q. Did you Travel? If yes, what is your experience?
Since my competitive career started, I have had the privilege of traveling all across the globe to represent Canada on the world stage. I have visited over 20 countries, and I hope to see much more! I believe that when it comes to learning about life, there is nothing more enriching than travel. When you see the way others live, you get to appreciate your life to a much higher degree.
Q. How do you feel living in Canada?
I was born and raised in Canada, so I don’t know any other life, but it is indeed a privilege to be a citizen of this great country. I know that as a young Canadian woman, I have been given fantastic opportunities that many other young girls around the world will not get to experience, and I am beyond grateful for that blessing.
Q. What is the role of parents/teachers in your life?
My parents have always been my strongest support system and a big advocate for my sister and me to be highly involved in competitive sport. I can’t thank them enough for their generous contributions and for being my biggest cheerleaders. Without their endless love and support, I know I would not be the person I am today.
Q. What career are you pursuing?
A career in dentistry!
Q. What is the most important thing you consider to make a career?
It is to do something I am passionate! Nothing great in the world has ever been accomplished without passion.
Q. Do you volunteer and what significance it has in your career?
I currently volunteer on a weekly basis at the Jim Pattison outpatient center. It has been incredibly fulfilling as I think it’s so important to give back to a community who’s supported me so much.
Q. What is your favorite movie?
Growing up, one of my favorite movies was Mulan. She was able to obliterate gender roles, stand up against adversity, and display a truly inspirational courage that could inspire young girls. She was also one tough fighter! I would always like to think that I could see a little of myself in her.
Q. Have you ever been bullied? If yes, how did you handle it?
I think everyone has experienced some bullying in his or her life. For me, karate has given me the confidence and self-awareness to defeat that. I am also very thankful that my parents instilled such high values in me to be an active person who not only stands up for myself but others around me as well. My dad, being an RCMP officer for twenty-six years, and the father of three daughters, has always expressed the importance of being a strong woman who fights for what she believes.
Q. What message you would like to partake in today’s youth?
My message is for them to stay balanced and work hard, and believe that they can break any barrier!
