Bravely Connected

This week on the Bravely Connected Podcast, I interview Alexandra Velosa, Marketing Manger at Southcentre mall, who believes that community isn’t just about the places we live—it’s about the people who make those places feel like home. It’s about stepping up, finding ways to connect, and using what we have to make a difference.

One powerful example of this is what they did last Easter, Visanki for Peace, an initiative that brings Ukrainian artists together to paint oversized Easter eggs. These beautifully crafted eggs are auctioned off to support Ukrainian organizations assisting new immigrants in Calgary. More than just an art project, Visanki for Peace is a bridge between cultures, offering a sense of belonging to those who have been uprooted. One woman, moved to tears, shared that it was the first time she had felt her homeland so close since arriving in Canada. That’s the power of community—helping people feel seen, valued, and connected.

Transforming Spaces, Transforming Lives

Alex understands that a space can be more than just a retail hub—it can be a place of impact. With over six million visitors annually, the mall provides a unique opportunity to engage people in meaningful ways. From supporting Meals on Wheels during the pandemic to converting an unused rooftop into a thriving community garden, Alex has championed initiatives that turn everyday spaces into solutions for real-world problems.

During the lockdown, when schools closed and many families lost access to essential food programs, the mall became a distribution center for food hampers. This pivot, born out of necessity, ultimately raised over $7 million for various causes in Calgary. It’s proof that even in times of crisis, when resources are limited, innovation and compassion can drive incredible change.

Small Actions, Big Impact

Community action doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes, it’s as simple as bringing joy to others. During the pandemic, Alex, who was also the president of her community association, organized neighborhood birthday parades. When kids couldn’t have parties, neighbors stepped in—decorating their cars, honking horns, and creating a moment of happiness for families stuck at home. Something that started small quickly grew, with 150 cars joining in. It was a reminder that kindness spreads, and connection thrives when people show up for each other.

Creating a Culture of Giving

Having moved from Colombia to Calgary 21 years ago, Alex was struck by the generosity of this city. From strangers offering a helping hand to organizations rallying around those in need, Calgary has a deep-rooted tradition of giving. That same spirit now drives her work—helping businesses, organizations, and individuals find creative ways to give back.

One of the most successful examples of this is the rooftop garden and beehives at South Center Mall, created in partnership with Made by Mama. This once-unused space now houses 150 planters and 50,000 bees, producing honey and fresh produce for local families in need. It’s a powerful reminder that impact starts with looking at what we already have and asking, “How can we use this to help others?”

How You Can Get Involved

The most important lesson from these stories? Making a difference doesn’t require a big budget or a grand plan. It starts with looking around, seeing where there’s a need, and taking action. Whether it’s repurposing an unused space, organizing a small act of kindness, or supporting a local initiative, every step counts.

We all have the power to create change—one connection, one act of kindness, and one moment of bravery at a time.

Watch the YouTube Interview of this post here