INSPIRE ACTION Community Spotlight
We are proud of the many women who play a vital role in the successes of Nikkei Place!
Meet Ruth Coles
Ruth Coles is currently the Board President of the Nikkei Seniors Health Care and Housing Society (NSHCHS).
She was educated at UBC and the University of Toronto where she received her Master of Social Work degree. Ruth worked in the healthcare field for over 30 years as a social worker in management and leadership roles in Diversity Services. She advocates for caring and compassionate care, barrier free services and community building. Ruth has been active with the NSHCHS for over 35 years as Vice President and President since 2010.
Who or what inspires you to take action?
I was brought up with Christian values and my parents set an early example of serving others and helping those in need. For example, my father played a key role in the relocation of many Japanese Canadian families to Grand Forks during the war. My decision to become a social worker probably grew out of this background, as did my subsequent commitment to Nikkei Place and Nikkei Seniors.
What are some traits you think great leaders possess?
Great leaders should be concerned about the needs of others and be able to generate cooperation by empowering others.
Do you have any words or sayings you live by? Or some of the best advice you’ve received that you would like to share?
I have never thought much of words or sayings to live by. I’ve always been more concerned with doing things. But if I have to come up with a saying, it would be “Actions speak louder than words”.