Joan Kirton, a Montreal resident originally from Barbados, who has dedicated her life to helping others, particularly youth, has been made one of Quebec’s Changemakers. Her journey of giving back began at 13, when she would take fabric from her sister, a dressmaker, to make clothes for children in need in her community in Saint-Michael, Barbados. Her mother often joked that Joan would give away everything she had, foreshadowing the growth of her giving spirit.

At 21, Kirton moved to Montreal and quickly became involved in helping Caribbean newcomers adjust to their new lives in Canada. She later pursued a career in social work and, at 40, graduated from a special care counseling program in 1987. Kirton began working at Batshaw Youth and Family Centres, where she supported children and families facing significant challenges. She specialized in working with youth aged 18 months to 18 years, particularly those deemed “difficult” or “troubled.”

Her approach was grounded in understanding and compassion, shaped by her own experiences as a “rough teenager.” Kirton connected easily with the youth in her care, and despite facing challenges, including racist remarks from some families, she remained committed to making a positive difference. One memorable encounter involved a girl whose mother refused to speak to Kirton due to her skin color. Kirton’s patience and understanding eventually led to a breakthrough, with the girl giving her a large Christmas gift in gratitude.

Kirton was influenced by her father’s teachings on staying calm in difficult situations. His wisdom guided her throughout her career, helping her navigate challenges with vulnerable youth. At Batshaw, she worked alongside colleagues like Virginia Dipierro, who praised Kirton’s positive spirit and her ability to educate others about the challenges faced by Black children. Dipierro credits Kirton with helping her recognize institutional racism in the workplace, an issue Kirton herself experienced.

In 2017, Kirton expanded her reach by traveling to Northern Quebec to work with Inuit youth in Inukjuak and Kuujjuaraapik. Many of these children came from families affected by the trauma of residential schools, and Kirton’s work deepened her understanding of the complex issues faced by Indigenous communities.

In 2019, Kirton shifted her focus to working with Black seniors in Montreal through the Council for Black Aging Community of Montreal. She also became president of the council for a year, advocating for seniors’ needs and organizing activities such as crafts, line dancing, and computer courses.

Beyond her professional work, Kirton has been an active member of the Quebec Amateur Netball Federation for over 50 years. She also participates in an annual cancer walk with Team Susie-Q, a cause close to her heart after surviving endometrial cancer.

Despite all the impact she has had, Kirton remains humble. She often struggles to recognize the extent of her influence, acknowledging that she simply does what makes her happy while bringing joy to others.

Now 77 years old, Kirton retired in December 2024 and plans to spend more time with family in Montreal and the Caribbean. While she has retired, she remains open to new opportunities, confident that her work as a Changemaker will continue to inspire those whose lives she has touched.

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  Montreal Quebec