Since this interview was published, Estelle has started her career. We wish her all the best and hope you enjoy her interview!

Tell us a little about yourself!

My name is Estelle Zentil, and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to be a Development Coordinator Intern for the summer at Humber River Hospital Foundation.

“I’m fascinated by how much strategy goes into developing fundraising prospects,” says Estelle.

I hope to merge my passion for fashion and philanthropy, together with my core values, into the work that I do every day.

What have you been learning or working on during your internship?

I just completed my Bachelor of Commerce in Fashion Management at Humber College, and during my internship, I’ve been able to witness what I’ve learned about organizational behaviour applied in fundraising.

The most valuable thing that I’ve been able to learn is the emotional intelligence that goes into the art of relationship-building. I’m fascinated by how much strategy goes into developing fundraising prospects. I’ve learned how to find the sweet spot between finding what inspires people to engage in philanthropy and where it could help make a big difference to Humber River Hospital.

Is there a Program of Care you have a personal connection to?

In 2012, my Zio Garry unexpectedly passed away due to heart-related complications. My Zio’s charisma, joie de vivre, and generosity were qualities that defined him and made him bigger than life. My Zio truly had a heart of gold, and always believed in giving back. The tragedy of his passing had left my family devastated, and so I hope to continue to contribute to the Cardiology Program to ensure that patients have the best quality care that they deserve and need.

What are the three most interesting pieces of technology at Humber?

“The Command Centre left me speechless!,” says Estelle. “It digitally monitors things like the critical care capacity, surgical scheduling, and discharge planning.”

I personally love the Panda Warmer because it is state-of-the-art thermoregulation technology that allows parents to have the peace of mind that their newborn babies are in good hands. I am passionate about the technology that the Maternal Child Program is equipped with, because I hope that all women who want children, including myself, feel confident in the environment in which their babies are born.

Additionally, the Command Centre is an awe-inspiring centre that left me speechless! The Command Centre is the key element that digitally monitors things like the critical care capacity, surgical scheduling, and discharge planning (just to name a few). I am still in awe of all of its functions and am excited for the second phase to be implemented in the near future.

Lastly, the resuscitation room in labour and delivery allows very vulnerable babies to have access to the best emergency care. Currently, there is a partnership with SickKids Hospital that provides emergency transportation from Humber River Hospital to SickKids Hospital.

Do you have a favourite project?

I would have to say that my favourite project is the Bon Furlans Friends of Humber Campaign. I’ve been helping with the event planning side of things. Brainstorming and working collaboratively alongside my coworkers to pull off a great event is what I find most fulfilling.

My Italian background on my father’s side has naturally made me inclined towards the Bon Furlans Campaign. I had a close and special relationship with my Friulani Nonni, and feel extremely grateful that I am able to honour their legacy in a thoughtful and impactful way through the Campaign.

“This past year, I was fortunate enough to share my graduation celebration with my brother Jens’ call to the Bar celebration,” says Estelle. “It was wonderful to share these important milestones together as a family.”

What is one awesome thing you’ve done in the last year?

This past year, I was fortunate enough to share my graduation celebration with my brother Jens’ call to the Bar celebration. It was wonderful to share these important milestones together as a family. I value my brother and sister very much, and hope to celebrate many more memories together.

What inspires you?

My biggest inspiration comes from travelling because it allows me to see the world through a different lens. Naturally, I have always seen the world through rose-coloured glasses, and appreciate the value in heterogeneity across cultures. I speak three languages (English, French, and German), and hope to learn more by travelling.

Next to travelling, my parents are true inspirations to me. I admire my father’s patience and generosity, as well as my mother’s general sense of reverence towards life. They inspire me to be my best self and I hope to become half the people they are one day. I have a deep sense of appreciation for my family. My family is the foundation for everything that I do in my life. They have taught me that a natural sense of sincerity, kindness, honesty, service, and gratitude go a long way.