We are always interested in hearing more about the individuals in food banking across Canada! This month, our spotlight is on Arianna Scott from Food Banks Alberta.

What is your role in food banking?

• 2011–2018: Executive Director, Wood Buffalo Food Bank, Fort McMurray, Alberta
• 2013–2015: Various Positions on the Board of Alberta Food Banks Network Association
• 2015–2018: Chair of Board of Directors, AFBNA/Food Banks Alberta
• 2020–2021: Sr. Projects Manager, Food Banks Alberta
• 2021–Present: Chief Executive Officer, Food Banks Alberta

Describe a typical day in one word. 
Eclectic.
 
What was your inspiration to get involved in food banking?
A new challenge. I had worked in the child welfare realm for 20 years and needed something new. The food bank in Fort McMurray was having some serious problems and needed someone to come in and right the ship. I saw this as a new challenge at a time when I needed something new.
 
What is your greatest achievement in your current role?
Bringing all our services under one roof to ensure we are offering the greatest benefit to the most members and building a cohesive team. Increasing our program and service offerings.
 
What is your greatest challenge in your current role?
Public awareness and understanding of our agency.   
 
If you could have one wish granted that would address hunger in Canada what would it be?
Decreased red tape around the production and sharing of food. Cost controls placed on food to ensure equal access to nutritious food for all.
 
Which talent would you most like to have?
Talent or superpower? Talent: photographic memory. Superpower: ability to clone myself.

If you could tell your younger self advice, what would it be?
Touch things once. Deal with everything as it hits your desk. Never start a to-do pile — it just gets lost in the business of work. Choose happiness and find balance your own way — don’t let others tell you what it looks like.

Who are your heroes?  Fictional or real life.
My dad for his leadership and work ethic, my mom for being an amazing role model for parenting, my grandmother for her patience, and Jill Barefoot for her leadership and mentorship (all real life). Jessica Rabbit and Betty Boop (fictional) for their unwavering willingness to be who they wanted to be, curves and all.

What is your idea of happiness?
Family and self-determination.
 
What is your motto?
Say ‘YES’ and figure it out.
 
Something quirky about you that others may not expect or know?
I am an introvert. When people meet me they always think I am an extrovert, and while I do appear that way, I gain all my energy from being alone with my dogs and a good book, TV show, movie, or nature.

Oh, and I love shooting guns.

Your theme song?
“Costume Party” by Lauren Duski.
 
Do you know a food bank or food banker that could be featured on our next Spotlight? Contact us at communications@foodbankscanada.ca.