Meet Carey Collins, ACT Alberta’s new Executive Director!
We are thrilled to announce Carey Collins as the new Executive Director of ACT Alberta! Since joining our team in 2022 as a Communications Specialist, Carey has demonstrated remarkable leadership and dedication, quickly transitioning to the role of Manager of Community Engagement. Carey has spearheaded impactful new initiatives like the #EliminateLanguageBarriers campaign, developing translated resources for Canadian newcomers about their rights in Alberta. As part of this campaign, QR code stickers with access to materials about Temporary Foreign Worker rights and human trafficking information in multiple languages were created and widely disseminated.
With her passion and expertise, we are confident that ACT Alberta will continue to grow, innovate, and provide vital support to victims and survivors of human trafficking. Carey’s deep commitment to our mission and her vision for the future make her the perfect leader to guide ACT Alberta into its next chapter.
To help you get to know Carey and her vision for ACT Alberta better, we asked her a few questions about her journey, her goals, and what inspires her. Here’s what she had to say:
What excites you the most about working with ACT Alberta?
The meaningful work we do. We have a real opportunity to make a tangible change in the lives of people impacted by trafficking. Every day, we get to support survivors, offer them resources, and help them rebuild their lives—knowing that our efforts are part of something bigger. The impact is immediate and long-lasting, which is incredibly rewarding.
But just as exciting, is the team I get to work with. I've never been part of such a compassionate and dedicated group of people. Each team member is driven by a deep sense of purpose and commitment to the cause. The passion they bring to this work is contagious, and it pushes me to stay motivated even when the work is difficult. However, I also have to remind them to take care of themselves. They often give so much of themselves to the mission that I need to encourage them to step back, take time off, and practice self-care. It’s a privilege to work alongside such a devoted team, and it makes all the challenges we face together worth it.
How do you approach building a strong and collaborative team?
I always try to keep things transparent and communicate openly with my team. By being upfront about the big picture, goals, and any challenges, I help build trust and make sure we're all on the same page. I encourage honest conversations and welcome everyone to share their ideas, feedback, and concerns, hopefully creating an environment where collaboration can thrive. I also work with a healthy dose of imposter syndrome so that seems to keep me grounded.
How has ACT Alberta adapted to better meet the needs of survivors over the past few years?
I think the team here is very unique in that we are all life-long learners who are deeply committed to understanding and responding to the evolving needs of survivors. Over the past few years, and throughout the history of the organization, we have continuously adapted by listening closely to what survivors themselves are telling us about their experiences and needs. This feedback has been invaluable in guiding us toward better practices, language, and approaches.
We make a conscious effort to stay flexible, recognizing that the needs of survivors can change over time, influenced by new challenges, societal shifts, and emerging issues. By engaging with survivors through one-on-one conversations daily, we ensure that our work is always aligned with their voices and perspectives. This feedback helps us improve our services, whether it’s refining our communication to be more trauma-informed or adjusting our support strategies to better address specific needs.
What role does community education play in addressing human trafficking, and how can individuals get involved?
Community education plays a crucial role in addressing human trafficking by raising awareness, debunking myths, and empowering individuals to recognize the signs of trafficking. When the public is educated, we create a community that can actively prevent trafficking, support survivors, and make sure perpetrators are held accountable. It is an essential tool in prevention, advocacy, and creating a network of allies who are equipped to respond effectively.
People can start to get involved by joining our free Human Trafficking trainings! Each session is led by real people who are there to answer questions and dive deeper into the more complex aspects of trafficking.
What advice would you give to someone wanting to start a career in anti-human trafficking advocacy or services?
This work is not for the faint of heart—it's tough, and there's no easy way around it. If you're looking to get involved, it's important to be familiar with complex trauma, trauma-informed language and practices, and have a solid understanding of your own boundaries. Make sure you have strategies in place to disconnect at the end of the day and prioritize your own wellbeing.
Do you have a favorite hobby or activity outside of work?
I have entirely too many hobbies. Crochet is my go-to however I have recently taken up plaster painting and my living room now seems to be an art studio. If you are ever on a call with me, you will see my first plaster painting in behind me in the office!
What’s your hidden talent or something surprising you’re good at?
Leg wrestling. So weird I know. I’m small, but don’t let that fool you.
What is your personal mantra or affirmation that helps you stay grounded and motivated in your work?
A former leader once told me, "Only do what only you can do," and that advice has really stuck with me. I keep it in mind, especially when the work feels overwhelming, and I pass it on to others who might be feeling weighed down by everything ahead of us.