Volunteers from all corners of the country are at the heart of the Loran Scholars Foundation. Intimately involved with Loran’s in-depth selection process, Loran assessors and interviewers play a pivotal role in identifying potential scholars and shifting the trajectory of young students’ lives. Loran mentors and presenters support us in building Loran Scholars’ capacity to lead. Through inspiration and guidance, they challenge and shape these optimistic changemakers at a formative time in their lives.

While our network of more than 600 volunteers comes from diverse careers, backgrounds, and locations, what draws them to Loran is their commitment to the qualities we look for in Loran Scholars. In celebration of National Volunteer Week, first-time mentor Anissa Hilborn and longtime volunteer Jorge Salazar share what inspires them to volunteer for Loran and within their communities and why others should consider volunteering for Loran, too.

How long have you been volunteering with Loran? 

Anissa: This is my first year, and it has been an incredibly rewarding experience already!

Jorge: I’ve been volunteering with Loran for over five years. What began as a way to give back to an organization that supports young leaders has grown into a constant reminder of how mentorship and opportunity can transform futures.

What inspired you to get involved?

Anissa: I’ve always been passionate about mentoring, particularly when it comes to fostering female leadership. The idea of supporting and creating new leaders really resonates with me, especially since I have kids around the same age as the scholars. It’s easy to see the importance of having access to a mentor who can guide and inspire you along the way. I am optimistic about the future, and being part of Loran allows me to contribute to shaping that future in a meaningful way.

Jorge: Somaya Amiri, a 2015 Loran Scholar, inspired me deeply. Seeing how the scholarship empowered her to grow as a leader and young woman—and how she, in turn, uplifted her community—showed me the ripple effect of this Foundation’s work. As someone who believes fiercely in investing in the next generation, I wanted to contribute to a mission that aligns with my values: equipping young people to lead with courage and compassion, especially those whose potential might otherwise be overlooked.

We look for three core qualities at Loran: strong character, a commitment to service, and leadership potential. How would you say you embody or exemplify these in your own life, either professionally or in any other volunteer roles you may hold?

Anissa: For me, authenticity is essential. I strive to lead with integrity and stay true to my values in everything I do. Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to have generous female mentors who have inspired me to step into leadership roles and, in turn, give back to others. Their support has made an enormous impact, and I aim to pass that on. My entire career has been focused on fundraising to improve lives and make a difference in the community. Giving back is not just an action for me; it’s a commitment I live by.

Jorge: My passion for service is rooted in my own story. As a refugee from Colombia, I know how systems can fail vulnerable communities. Today, I work to bridge local and global justice—whether supporting migrant networks in Canada or standing with Indigenous communities reclaiming their rights. Service means listening to those most affected and walking alongside them, not ‘saving’ from afar.

Leadership is about following the needs of the community. In my work facilitating leadership programs, I support creating spaces where communities can articulate their own priorities—whether it’s migrant families advocating for better support systems or Indigenous partners in their right to self-determination. My role is to listen deeply, amplify their voices, and mobilize resources they identify as critical.

I strive to act with integrity, but I also recognize that growth comes from missteps. When I make mistakes, I try to face them with honesty, whether it’s revisiting a biased assumption or repairing harm in a relationship when possible. Integrity means centring marginalized voices, even when it’s uncomfortable, and staying open to unlearning.

Loran could not do this work without the support of people like you, but in turn, how has volunteering with Loran added value to your life, personally or professionally?

Anissa: Volunteering with Loran has been such a meaningful experience for me. On a personal level, it’s been deeply rewarding to connect with such an intelligent, driven, and compassionate young person. Professionally, mentoring has given me the opportunity to evolve as a leader. Supporting someone else’s growth has a way of making you reflect on your progress and pushing you to keep improving.

Jorge: It has been an enriching experience, affirming the power of investing in young people. Every time I sit down to interview an applicant with other volunteer assessors, I’m reminded of how much passion, resilience, and drive exist. Working alongside committed individuals has made me a better listener, a more thoughtful leader, and someone who thinks more deeply and strategically about equity and access.

Why should others consider volunteering for Loran?

Anissa: Mentoring with Loran allows you to step outside your day-to-day routine and see the world through a fresh perspective. It challenges you to be a better listener, a more thoughtful advisor, and a more intentional leader. And honestly, it’s just fun. Loran Scholars bring so much energy and curiosity to every conversation. If you’re thinking about volunteering for Loran, my advice would be simple: Do it. You feel like you’re part of something bigger, contributing to change that touches communities far and wide. And that feels incredible.

Jorge: It means becoming part of a community that believes in potential, service, and the idea that leadership rooted in character and integrity can shape a better future. If you’re someone who wants to make a tangible difference, connect with exceptional young leaders, and be inspired in return, Loran is full of that energy. You don’t have to be perfect—just willing to show up, listen, and support—that alone can change lives! 

There are many ways to get involved with Loran. If you are interested in volunteering, please visit this page or get in touch with Katy Quinn, Loran’s Volunteer and Selections Officer.