Amber Dawn is a Changemaker

Tell me a little bit about yourself. 

Hello, my name is Amber Tapley (Dawn), and my pronouns are she/her. I am a proud parent to two beautiful children as well as a full spectrum doula, prenatal RMT, and childbirth educator.

What makes you jump out of bed in the morning?

I really enjoy having a quiet space in the morning. It’s protected time, and sacred to me. So what makes My kids are definitely what usually wakes me up in the morning! But,  I am always eager to get out of bed so that I can make a positive contribution to my community with all the work I do, and of course I have to feed my chickens.

How did you hear about this program?

I heard about it via social media. I was drawn to apply because I already feel like a changemaker in my community. I have a loud voice and I talk loudly about the things that matter to me and my community. I wanted to be able to reach another audience in Cape Breton, people who could use the services I deliver, yet are unable to access. 

How did this (your) project begin, what made you start thinking about it?

I realized there was a gap in where people could access in-depth childbirth education, since many courses are only offered in Sydney. I wanted to fill that gap in any way I could, and make the services accessible to the people who need it the most. 

I collaborated with a pelvic floor physiotherapist and a maternal mental health social worker to design a condensed version of my childbirth class to deliver in Sydney Mines. I also designed a fifty-page workbook which helps with resources, guides to create their own birthing plan, postpartum information and a list of local resources which they can access. 

When you think of the word Changemaker, does anyone you know come to mind?

Wow, it can mean so many different things!  Someone who is passionate, committed and dedicated to what they do. Filling gaps, following what makes their heart sing and making it happen. 

What are your hopes for the Northside?

I hope that it continues to be a place where there are people dreaming up projects and implementing them. I look forward to a time when the narrative becomes positive both for people who live here, and people looking in. It’s a truly special place.

Can you give us a snapshot of an ordinary moment in your life that brings you great joy?

I would say a moment that gives me great joy is being outside, in my garden with my chickens roaming around. It’s so peaceful and relaxing 

What is your best tip for making the world a better place?

Try to maintain relentless optimism.