International Women’s Day is a day of unity, celebration, reflection, advocacy and action and is celebrated in countries around the world. This year's International Women’s Day (March 8th) may have come and gone, but we want to celebrate the women who work and volunteer with the Greater Sudbury Police Service all month long. Today and every day, we celebrate the strength they bring to our Service.

 

Meet Constable Ashley Laberge: officer in uniform standing and smiling

 

Q: What inspired you to become a Police Officer with the Greater Sudbury Police Service?

A: I started working for GSPS as a civilian in 2008 and quickly developed a passion for the policing profession. In 2015, when I took on a different position dealing directly with the public, I found a lot of fulfilment helping people solve problems. I realized then that I wanted to take a more active role in my community and that becoming a Police Officer was my calling.

 

Q: What’s the best part about your job? Why do you love doing what you do?

A: The best part about my job is being able to offer help to someone in need. We often encounter people who are struggling and need assistance, direction, or just someone to listen. If I can provide relief in any way, or connect them with other services that can, I feel like I’ve contributed positively. I love doing what I do because I have the opportunity to always leave a situation better than I found it.

 

Q: What advice would you give to a girl or woman aspiring to join the policing profession/law enforcement field?

A: I would tell them to be tenacious. If you feel that policing is for you, take it step-by-step, put in the work, and don’t give up. You do belong in this profession, and it needs you.