When your grandparents live on the homestead the family has owned since the 1900s, a part of you will always be a “farm girl.” Roots are important to Diane Begin-Croft, so she has made an extra effort to balance work with time for family and friends.

She is the manager of communications and policy at the Alberta Chamber of Commerce, where she volunteered when she was in school. It was a “natural fit to work in business.” Begin-Croft is currently working on her masters through long-distance delivery via the Internet.

Born to entrepreneurial parents who own a health food store, this 28-year-old hasn’t let her commitment to her job become all-consuming.

Every week, Begin-Croft drives across the city to play volleyball with her friends at Millwood’s Recreation Centre. Her team won a free year’s membership with their second place finish in a 2004 competition.

“Every year we came in last… until last year.” Begin-Croft credits the win to her new teammates and not to any of her own skill on the court. She just plays for fun and knows that it will guarantee her a weekly visit with her friends.

Begin-Croft also volunteers with the University of Alberta’s Graduate Students’ Association and belongs to the Canadian Public Relations Society.

In addition, she spends time volunteering for the Junior League of Edmonton, a women’s group focused on helping other women and those in need. Begin-Croft serves on the public relations committee and was the secretary of the board last year. She is also responsible for the organization’s website. Some of the activities the League runs include teaching inner city children about nutrition, visiting seniors’ homes, and working at homeless shelters.

“You have to create your own opportunities,” says Begin-Croft. “I’ve always had a plan—but I like where I am now.”