In early August, the 2025 Canada Games Host Society kicked off its mission to recruit 5,000 volunteers, the driving force behind the largest multi-sport event in the country taking place in St. John’s from August 8-25, 2025. 

Among the first to jump at the chance were Becky Martin, Paul Akingbola, and Susan Vaughan, who signed up for the Volunteer Program presented by Atlantic Lottery moments after the registration portal opened. The trio became the inaugural members of what will soon be a team of 5,000 strong.

Each of them has a unique story about why they signed up, what it means to them to be part of the largest event to take place in Newfoundland and Labrador, and why they’re encouraging others to sign up. 

Becky Martin

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25-year-old Becky Martin was the very first person to sign up as a Games-time volunteer for the 2025 Canada Games. As the Coordinator of First Year Experience at Memorial University (MUN), Becky is no stranger to creating memorable experiences.

“I found that the people I wanted to surround myself with—the ones I truly enjoy being with—are those who share my values and interests,” said Martin. “I discovered these like-minded individuals through volunteering. That’s why I’m always seeking new volunteer opportunities to connect with more people who share that same mindset and passion and truly feel that sense of belonging.”

The Bishop Falls native notes how she has met all her closest friends by volunteering since starting her degree. Now working at MUN, she wants to mentor and inspire young leaders to get involved in the community.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to see many of these students becoming volunteers themselves. I often see them featured in 2025 Canada Games advertisements and I am just so proud of them!”

Memorial University will play a big part in the 2025 Canada Games as they are set to host seven sporting events and will be the home to the Athletes Village. 

Martin chose to volunteer for the Games because she wanted to be part of something that brings people together and makes a significant impact. 

“The opportunity to be involved in the Games is very exciting,” she said. “I think it’s a chance to create amazing memories for athletes and showcase Newfoundland and Labrador. I’m happy for the opportunity to contribute and be part of something so special.”

She encourages people who may be new to volunteering to put themselves out there and apply. 

“You're going to learn so much. Something I say to my students is ‘your path can only be broken when you take the first step’”.

Paul Akingbola

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Originally from West Africa, Paul Akingbola moved to Newfoundland and Labrador over two years ago becoming a management consultant with Deloitte and a dedicated volunteer. 

“I fell in love with the province and the city immediately,” said Akingbola. “My career has always included a component of giving back, and volunteering with the Canada Games is a perfect opportunity to continue that.”

Akingbola’s extensive volunteer experience includes leading the “Peace is Possible” global campaign across West Africa and working with Deloitte’s Community Advisory Project. His motivation for volunteering with the Canada Games comes from his admiration for athletes' hard work and dedication.

“The Canada Games are about representing provinces, cities, and communities. It’s a unique opportunity for those who might not be able to compete at the high level of sport but still want to support those who do. I believe that these events matter and that by getting involved, we can truly make a difference for the athletes.”

As a bilingual volunteer, Akingbola is also excited to ensure that the Games are accessible to both English and French-speaking participants. 

"As we know, Canada is a bilingual country. Just the fact that I'm here; me being bilingual was very helpful with my process of becoming a permanent resident. Being bilingual has made that entire process easier. For everyone else, it remains very important to centre bilingualism in our activities and all these voices must be heard."

Susan Vaughan

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Susan Vaughan has been volunteering all her life. She is a passionate supporter of the arts community in the province, which is what drew her interest to sign up to volunteer for the Festival Program during the 2025 Canada Games. 

“I am currently involved in a number of different things including working with Inclusion NL for events like the Royal St. John’s Regatta and the Frosty Festival. I have volunteered for the Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Festival, I like the music scene here so I enjoy that event a lot. I have also volunteered for Habitat for Humanity for over 15 years.” 

Vaughan says she enjoys the energy and connections that come with giving back, which is what attracts her to volunteering.  

“It’s the excitement of being involved in it all and all the great people you meet along the way,” said Vaughan.

She’s excited about the opportunity to contribute to the 2025 Canada Games, especially as it will showcase not just athletics but also the arts and culture of the province.

“I think a lot of people just think the Games are just a sporting event, but there's so much more, there's going to be festivals and events happening all over the city during Games time.”

Vaughan has volunteered so much of her time to her community. When asked what keeps her coming back she says, “I don't really know how to articulate it. It's just rewarding, it is interesting, and it's just fabulous.”

Reflecting on the 1977 Canada Games, Susan recalls the excitement and sense of pride that came with hosting a national event.

The 2025 Canada Games currently has over 350 planning volunteers working behind the scenes to get ready to welcome the nation in August 2025, and with the registration portal open for Games-time volunteers the numbers are growing each day. 

If you’re looking to get involved, visit 2025canadagames.ca/volunteer and join in on the excitement.

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