Sylvia Pena

Sylvia Pena was born in Regina, Saskatchewan but was raised in Hamilton, Ontario. From an early age, Sylvia has had an interest in traveling and exploring new places. Upon graduating from high school, Sylvia volunteered in Ukraine and Saskatchewan as a participant with Canada World Youth. The opportunity to travel with young Canadians from across the country sparked Sylvia's interest in learning more about Canada's diverse cultural, regional and linguistic identities. This interest led her to pursue a BA in Political Science with a focus on Canadian Politics. During her second year, Sylvia had the opportunity to work as a Summer Guide Interpreter for the Library of Parliament in Ottawa. As a guide she had the privilege of teaching Canadian and international visitors about our system of government, offering tours in English, French, and occasionally Spanish. This experience deepened Sylvia's appreciation and understanding of Canada's democratic institutions and traditions. In addition to politics, Sylvia also enjoys learning languages, traveling, sewing and eating out with friends. She is very excited to be part of the 2011-2012 OLIP team and looks forward to gaining greater insight into the politics of Ontario.

Favourite book: 1984.

Favourite tv show: The Big Bang Theory/ Law and Order: SVU.

Favourite fictional character: Willy Wonka.

If you had to live in a movie/painting, which one would it be? The Wedding Singer.

If you were a paint colour, what would your name be? Eggplant Purple.

Favourite Toronto intersection (could be neighbourhood, I suppose): Front and Spadina!

If you could only bring three things to a desert island, they would be... An axe, a tent, my dictionaries

Favourite fresh Ontario produce (aka fruit or veg): Spinach.