Turning a Volunteer Opportunity Into a Career: Alicia Lok-Malek’s Story

After volunteering with GlobalMedic to support the Ukraine conflict, Alicia Lok-Malek felt inspired.

She wanted to turn her passion for helping people in need into a career. Alicia had a two-decade career in data science within the financial services and technology sectors, but turned to The Chang School for what she needed for her next step: a Certificate in Emergency Management, Threat and Response Planning.

Once she completed her certificate, Alicia landed a full-time position with GlobalMedic as an Emergency Programs Officer. She recently supported community members through the Orillia ice storm, and she’s still just as keen on volunteering her time as ever, serving as a Community Responder in Peel, supporting the Toronto Distress Centre, and coordinating Meals on Wheels.

Now, Alicia’s a medal-winner: she was awarded the TMU Gold Medal at The Chang School’s Spring 2025 convocation ceremony.

The medal is the university's highest award, presented to students with exceptional academic achievement combined with extraordinary contributions to the life of the university, their professional community, and/or the community at large. Nominees must have demonstrated outstanding involvement with the university, their profession, and/or the community (extracurricular, voluntary and unpaid activities that benefit a broader community), as well as a leadership role beyond the faculty level.

We caught up with Alicia to hear about why community service is crucial for her – and the one piece of career advice everyone needs to hear.

The Chang School: What inspired you to study emergency management, threat and response planning?

Alicia Lok-Malek: After a successful two decades working in data science within the financial services and technology sectors, I found myself looking for a way to give back – something that would allow me to use my skills in service of others and contribute more directly to the well-being of my community.

When COVID-19 hit, like many people, I had the chance to pause and reflect. That period pushed me to re-evaluate my path and retool for something more purpose-driven. Rather than remaining on the sidelines, I felt a strong pull to become someone who could step in and help when the next crisis comes. Studying emergency management, threat and response planning was a way to channel that motivation into meaningful action.

CS: Why did you choose The Chang School?

AL: I chose The Chang School because it offered an accessible, practical, and flexible pathway into a new field. Financial accessibility was an important factor for me, and the program’s cost made it a realistic option.

Post-COVID, the ability to take courses online was also critical. I appreciated that many of the offerings were available both in-person and online, and that courses were available year-round, which allowed me to learn at a pace that worked with my schedule.

The certificate itself struck a great balance; it was grounded in strong theoretical foundations while also offering practical, real-world applications.

I especially valued that the program consisted of just four courses, making it achievable in a relatively short amount of time. That structure gave me a sense of momentum and made it easier to stay motivated throughout the process.

Overall, The Chang School made it possible for me to upskill in a way that was manageable, meaningful, and aligned with my career goals.

CS: What did you enjoy most about your experience at The Chang School?

AL: What I appreciated most about my experience at The Chang School was how accessible and supportive the entire learning process was from start to finish. The online platform made it easy to search for courses and certificates that aligned with my goals, and the registration process was straightforward and efficient, which made getting started feel less daunting.

Throughout the program, I found the learning support services incredibly helpful. I made use of the essay writing support in particular, which helped me sharpen my academic writing and build confidence in communicating complex ideas. It was reassuring to know that support was there when I needed it.

Another highlight was the quality and diversity of instruction. Each professor brought their own professional background and expertise into the classroom, offering a broad range of perspectives that enriched the learning experience. That variety deepened my understanding of the material and kept the coursework engaging and relevant.

CS: How did obtaining your certificate boost your career prospects?

AL: The Emergency Management, Threat and Response Planning certificate played a pivotal role in my career transition. It provided the technical foundation I needed to enter a new field with confidence, equipping me with both the knowledge and context required to meaningfully contribute in the emergency management space.

For prospective employers, the certificate served as external validation of my readiness to take on new challenges. For me personally, it reinforced that I could successfully pivot into this field, even without a traditional background in it.

One of the most valuable aspects of the program was the examination of real-world case studies across multiple jurisdictions. These lessons brought the theory to life and helped me understand the practical realities of the work: what has succeeded, what hasn’t, and why. This practical lens, combined with the technical skills I gained, has made me a more informed, capable, and confident candidate as I build a career in public service.

CS: Why is public service important to you?

AL: Public service is important to me because it offers a meaningful way to give back. I’ve been fortunate in many aspects of my life: I’ve had access to education, safety, and opportunities that I know are not guaranteed for everyone. I carry a deep sense of gratitude for these privileges, and I see public service as a way to express that gratitude with humility and purpose.

In a world that often feels overwhelmed by conflict, inequality, and complexity, public service gives me the chance to be part of something constructive: to help improve people’s lives, even in small ways. It grounds me, reminding me that individual efforts can matter, especially when they’re part of something larger.

CS: What’s one piece of advice you would give to future Chang School learners?

AL: Embrace learning as a lifelong habit – especially in a world where the pace of change can feel dizzying. Whether it’s technology, global events, or shifting social and economic landscapes, the world is evolving fast, and ongoing education is one of the best ways to keep up, stay grounded, and grow.

Continuous learning and upskilling serve many purposes. They help us stay relevant in a technology-driven economy, where the tools and expectations are always shifting. They also support our development as engaged citizens – something that’s more important than ever. Understanding the issues that shape our communities and the wider world helps us participate more fully in democratic life and advocate for meaningful change.

There’s also a personal benefit: learning keeps our brains active. Much like physical fitness, mental fitness depends on regular use. "Use it or lose it" rings true when it comes to brain health, and education – formal or informal – is a great way to keep your mind sharp. At the same time, learning opens the door to new perspectives and fosters resilience, helping us adapt more effectively in uncertain times.

If you’re unsure where to begin, start with something that genuinely interests you. You don’t need to commit to a full certificate right away. Just begin. Investing in your own growth is never a waste. The skills and knowledge you gain stay with you, and no one can ever take them away. Think of learning as a form of self-care and empowerment. Your mind is a muscle, and keeping it strong will serve you well no matter where life takes you.