Kelsey Worth
Kelsey Worth comes from a family with roots spanning generations and continents. Her paternal grandparents' families immigrated to Canada from war-torn Prussia and Ukraine in the late 1800s and early 1900s, while her maternal family history dates back to the 1300s in what is now Tennessee.
Kelsey grew up in the Foothills of Southern Alberta, in a rural, bush setting where self-sufficiency was a way of life. Growing up on eight acres, gathering firewood each fall and winter, and learning to make the most of what was available instilled in her an appreciation for hard work, resourcefulness and community.
Her life experiences have shaped her understanding of people, resilience and the importance of compassion. Growing up around difficult family dynamics taught her the value of empathy and reminded her that everyone has a story that may not be visible on the surface. Her mother's ability to navigate life's hardships while continuing to show kindness remains one of Kelsey's greatest influences.
Kelsey dreamed of living in the North from a young age. With aunts and uncles who worked along the Klondike and shared stories of northern life, she always imagined that one day she would call the North home. Although she originally expected to settle in the Yukon, she moved to Yellowknife in 2020 and quickly discovered a community that exceeded her expectations.
Professionally, Kelsey brings experience in business administration, financial management, bookkeeping, accounts payable and receivable, and business operations. Her background has given her practical experience in organization, accountability, financial responsibility and working with people from a variety of backgrounds.
Her initial interest in YKWS was personal, stemming from her family's experience with addiction and the loss of her brother to an overdose. That experience strengthened her desire to help others and contribute to an organization whose values aligned with her own.
As a board member, Kelsey hopes to help strengthen YKWS as an inclusive organization that supports people facing barriers in their lives. She believes in creating opportunities for individuals to access support, develop independence, build confidence and become active, contributing members of their communities. Above all, she hopes to help foster an environment where people feel heard, supported and empowered to move forward, regardless of where they have come from or what challenges they have faced.