Erica Fisher: Fostering Beauty and Inclusivity in the Peace Region
Since 2011, Erica Fisher has been an integral part of the expansive tapestry of the Peace Region. Her journey began when she moved to Fort St. John after university to work as a reporter for a local radio station. However, it was in Grande Prairie, where she joined then Free FM, now 2day FM, in January 2014, that the region truly became her home.
As a reporter and radio personality, Fisher spent considerable time interacting with influential individuals and attending events that celebrated community contributions. Inspired by the generosity and dynamism of the region, she gradually transitioned from observer to participant, leveraging her platform to effect positive change.
Fisher credits Ruth Bader Ginsburg as a significant source of inspiration. She admires Ginsburg's unwavering commitment to women's rights and civil liberties, echoing her sentiment that perseverance and determination can overcome any obstacle. "RBG championed women's rights and civil rights, shattering barriers as a female lawyer and Supreme Court Justice. She didn't let anyone or anyone's assumptions get in her way, and she never let up," reflects Erica, “I can only hope to make a sliver of the impact she made in her lifetime.”
One of Fisher's pivotal moments came with her involvement in the Telus mural project in 2018. The initiative aimed to beautify downtown Grande Prairie while celebrating the community's diversity and inclusivity. Fisher's passion and drive led her to spearhead the project, securing funding and community support. The unveiling of the mural marked not just a triumph of art but also a testament to the power of collective action. Reflecting on the experience, Fisher shares, "Revealing the mural in front of the community was one of the proudest days of my life. Little did I know, that was only the beginning, as the mural project ended up becoming part of a larger story."
Since then, Fisher has continued to make waves as the director of the Grande Prairie Pride Society. Here, she achieved the beautiful and inclusive Rainbow Bright Teen Dance in 2022, and not without challenges; “As I took on the role of President of the Grande Prairie Pride Society, we embarked on our biggest ever Pride celebrations planned for 2020. However, due to COVID-19, those celebrations had to be rescheduled three times, meaning planning the same events four times, while also trying to engage the community while we were socially distanced.” Erica explains, “I'm proud to say we didn't lose a single sponsor over those years and when our performers came on stage and we could finally see our plans come to fruition, I couldn't help but cry. It meant so much to put on an event where youth can be themselves, followed up by the Pride Family Carnival and Party in White.”
Erica’s portfolio has expanded over the years as she is also Director on the Grande Prairie Public Library Board since 2020 and its Vice-Chair since 2023. She is currently the President-Elect for the Rotary Club of Grande Prairie After Five and will be president for the 2024-2025 year. Erica is also enthusiastic about assisting in non-profit organization events or serving as an emcee for organizations such as the Alberta Winter Games, Art Gallery of Grande Prairie, STARS Air Ambulance, Grande Prairie Regional Hospital Foundation, Grande Prairie Firefighters Charitable Foundation, Grande Prairie Friendship Centre, United Way Alberta Northwest, Women of Influence Awards, ANAVETS, Grande Prairie Downtown Association, Nitehawk Year-Round Adventure Park, and Bear Creek Folk Festival.
Her resilience and dedication to the community were properly recognized with the Young Woman of Influence Award in 2020 and the QEII Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2022.
Despite the challenges and scrutiny that come with being a woman in the public eye, Fisher remains resolute in her commitment to fostering positive change. She finds solace and strength in the support of like-minded individuals who share her passion for community involvement. Looking ahead, Fisher is excited about the upcoming Pride celebrations and her participation in the Rotary International Convention in Singapore, where she hopes to gather inspiration for future projects.
In her parting words, Fisher leaves behind a message of empowerment and authenticity for future generations of women. "You might have to fight for it, but you don't just deserve to have a seat at the table, you deserve to sit at the head of the table," she asserts. "I hope I can leave a legacy of caring for others and using my privilege and voice to make a difference."
Additionally, Erica adds, “I also hope to highlight that how you dress, colour your hair, decorate your body has no say on your intelligence and ability to be a community leader. I built my reputation with hair of every colour, large tattoos, and my own personal style, while being single and childless. Don't let anyone tell you those things matter.”
As Erica Fisher continues to inspire and empower the Peace Region community, her journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of passion, perseverance, and compassion. Through her commitment to inclusivity and advocacy, she has not only left an indelible mark on the region but also paved the way for a brighter and more equitable future.
As a final Thank You, Erica adds:
“I owe credit to Vista Radio and 2day FM who gave me incredible opportunities to get involved in community work, from supporting the causes I support, giving me the flexibility to attend meetings and events, and empowering me to become my own person outside of being a reporter and radio personality. Another company could have shut me down years ago. I especially thank General Manager Caralee Parr for her incredible leadership.”
Links:
Upcoming Events:
Rainbow Bright Teen Dance: May 31st, 2024
Party in White: June 1st, 2024
Pride Crosswalk Painting: June 3rd, 2024 (weather permitting)
Pride Family Carnival: June 8th, 2024
Grande Prairie Public Library
Rotary Club of Grande Prairie After Five