Sara Malki became a steward because she wanted to help people.
“My goal is to defend people, support people and make this a good place to work,” Sara said. “I’m proud to be a union steward. UFCW 1006A, to me, means fairness, wisdom and family.”
At her No Frills store, Sara helps members with a variety of issues, such as health and safety, benefits, scheduling, seniority, and general questions about the union. She said she gained more confidence as she helped more.
Recently, she helped educate a co-worker about his benefits, ensuring he was able to get the glasses he needed.
“He wasn’t aware of his benefits,” said Sara. “When he got his glasses, he was so happy.”
Sara says being a steward is like being a soldier for the union, providing members with a strong defence in the problems they face.
Being a union member means you are not alone, Sara said.
“Having a union means there is somebody behind us, looking out for us,” she said. “If we have a problem we have someone supporting us.”
Sara’s advice to new stewards is: “Never be afraid. Speak up. If we don’t speak up, we cannot solve the problem. Being a steward is about looking out for others.”
