by Laura Chapnick
For broadcast journalist Valerie Pringle, the road to success began with a simple question posed by her guidance counselor. As Pringle recalls, “She looked at me and asked, ‘What are you interested in?’” Pringle was floored, “No one had asked me that question before”. Although she was a mere grade thirteen student at the time, Pringle knew her interest lay in the media industry, amongst the buzzing news rooms and television sets. It is undeniable that Pringle chose the right career path, for she embodies a natural propensity for the public. Her familiar yet assertive tone resonates with the listener—even over the phone—creating an immediate and lasting connection with her audience.
After pinpointing her career path, Pringle enrolled at Ryerson University in the Television and Radio program before landing a job at CFRB. Despite facing various obstacles along the way, she developed a signature radio persona that she eventually translated onto the screen. Pringle went on to co-host Midday for CBC and later Canada AM for CTV, proving that her talents stretch far beyond the radio waves.
Pringle remains a Canadian media veteran, appearing on Valerie Pringle has Left the Building and hosting the Canadian edition of Antiques Road Show. She also keeps a hand in the ever-changing media industry by mentoring Ryerson students looking to pursue a career in journalism. “Even though I cannot give them a job, I always have time to talk,” Pringle explains.
While speaking with Pringle, I became overcome by her investment in giving back. She happily lends her time—and well-known voice—to a multiplicity of charities such as the Ontario Brain Institute and Literature for Life. Her most recent cause is serving as honorary chair for the Black White & Read All Over Gala for Literature for Life. The event takes place on October 26th 2011 at the RBC Plaza.
Pringle is passionate about Literature for Life, a Toronto-based charity that stimulates an interest in literature and reading amongst young mothers through their one-of-a-kind reading circle programming. The results of supporting young mothers as their child’s first teacher is both a love for learning and an invested interest in their child’s future. As Pringle articulates, “I am often overwhelmed in deciding what causes to support, but I can say with certainty that this one is a gem.”
Pringle's involvement with Literature for Life demonstrates her prioritization of the importance of guidance, a common thread throughout her career. Just as Pringle was guided towards a career in journalism, and now mentors up-and-coming grads, she also supports the guidance Literature for Life offers teenage mothers seeking a better future for themselves and for their children.
For more information about Literature for Life visit www.literatureforlife.org