Gillian Leech

What education have you taken?

I’m currently enrolled in a Bachelor of Business Administration with Honours.

What accomplishments are you proud of?

I was proud to receive scholarships coming out of high school for my academics but I was most proud of earning a spot on the Bobcats Women’s volleyball team. Being a Bobcat has given me so many awesome opportunities and has allowed me to compete across the country at a competitive level with some of my best friends. I’m also lucky enough to be playing in my hometown which has allowed me to see my family every day and maintain amazing relationships with the people that I love.

My greatest accomplishment of my university career so far is receiving the honour of being an Academic All-Canadian for my athletic and academic achievements.

I’ve also been able to coach and act as a role model for young volleyball players in Brandon and the surrounding areas. It’s not only a lot of fun, but also a gratifying experience being able to help young athletes pursue their interest in volleyball the way the Bobcat alumni did for me when I was a kid.

Tell me about yourself.

I was born and raised in Brandon with three older siblings. I come from an athletic family, my dad playing several sports when he was younger and my mom being an Olympic speedskater. I played a lot of competitive hockey and soccer until I decided to focus on volleyball in high school at Vincent Massey. I was able to play competitive club volleyball and on the Manitoba Provincial teams for three summers which opened up opportunities to play post-secondary.

Aside from sports, I have a passion for music, competing in piano competitions when I was younger and singing competitions in high school. Animals and the environment are also passions of mine, as I’m heading to Thailand for a month after graduation to volunteer at an animal rescue centre.

How did you become interested in your field of study?

I come from a family of business owners, my dad being the third generation owner of Leech Printing Ltd. He has inspired me to pursue a career in business and upon graduation I’m very excited to being working there alongside my father and my sister.

What is your philosophy in life?

As for right now, my philosophy in life is to be humble, generous and kind. I am so blessed to have the family, friends, experiences and opportunities that I do and I think it’s so important to remember who and what helped to get me here and to help those who haven’t been as fortunate as I have.

Where do you see yourself in the future?

I see myself pursuing a career in business at Leech Printing, continuing volunteer work for wildlife and the environment, travelling the world and experiencing new cultures with friends and loved ones, seeing all the live music I possibly can, adopting many pets, and starting a family.

Nominator’s Comments:

Gillian Leech is the Captain of our Volleyball team this year, was on the Honour Roll in Business and was recognized as an Academic All Canadian. Gillian is involved in our summer camps and has helped establish week-long youth volleyball camps in Roblin and Carberry over the last couple of summers. She has really evolved into a tremendous person and leader.