The Ben Stelter School Fundraiser promotes passionate students to take initiative in their roles. The fundraiser’s success with its cause is a direct result of these students working hard and taking on responsibilities related to their interests, even if it’s a little out of their comfort zone. One such student is Amadeo Reid, in grade 9 at Edmonton’s McKernan School.
He started his journey with the BSSF in 2025 by getting involved with fundraising activities at McKernan School. That year, McKernan went on to raise $24,500, the highest total of any participating school. All thanks to the efforts of its student leaders, staff, and school community.
“Everyone was committed to the same goal”, says Reid on what led to this success., “We trusted each other, worked together, and supported one another throughout the campaign.”
The experience encouraged Reid to become more involved with the BSSF beyond his school, leading him to apply for a Promotions Coordinator role on the internal team.
“He cares a lot about our mission and does everything he can to help others”, says Aariz Mawji, Founder and Director. “He’s quick to respond, and he’s really good at working with many people.”
As Promotions Coordinator, Reid was exposed to the internal workings of the BSSF, learning important skills along the way.
“Those responsibilities taught me how to communicate effectively, collaborate with a team, and stay organized.”
While he loved his work as a Promotions Coordinator, Amadeo had some ideas about how the BSSF could run behind the curtains as well.
“A couple of days into his role, Amadeo came up with some great ideas he got from observing the different teams,” recounts Mawji.
After he pitched them, Reid realized that he could make a meaningful impact on the team.
“As I thought more about it, I realized that my strengths were in improving systems and developing ideas that could make the BSSF run more effectively”
When he was offered the role of Chief of Staff to the Director, he knew it was the right move to make.
“I didn’t hesitate to accept because I knew it was a great fit for my skills and interests.”
The role is new and unique in its support of the executive members.
“The Chief of Staff works with the directing team to ensure we’re all aligned and tracks our projects, ensuring they’re following the right timeline,” Ana Shah, Director of Operations, explains.
“Ana and I make mistakes and have blind spots as well”, says Mawji.
An integral part of the role is to suggest methods of improvement, and advise the two directors on how best to support the fundraiser.
Reid has many qualities that make him a great fit for the role.
“I enjoy solving problems, developing new ideas, and collaborating with different departments,” he says. “I’m continuing to learn how to lead larger projects, communicate ideas more effectively, and prioritize tasks when managing multiple projects,”
This opportunity is the result of months of proving his reliability and creativity.
“Amadeo has the capability to be clear, honest, and supportive.” Shah remarks.
The combination of these skills is what makes him ideal to work with. He’s learnt this from the real-world experience he’s gained through his experience with the fundraiser, which all our team members gain through the outreach and internal organization they do.
Taking on such responsibility doesn’t have to be a formidable task for young students.
“The fact that you’re even considering taking on more responsibility is already a great sign,” says Reid to other like-minded young people. “As you grow older, you’ll naturally be given more responsibilities, so starting early helps you build confidence, leadership skills, and experience.”
“Even if you’re unsure at first, don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone,” Reid stresses. “You might surprise yourself with what you’re capable of.”
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