Shelby Antymis

What is unusual about your hometown, place of work or job?

I don’t know if it’s unusual, but it is unique. We have the Calgary Stampede, which is referred to as the greatest outdoor show on earth! The event is essentially a big rodeo and carnival where the whole city goes crazy for country music for about 10 days.

What does this year’s theme, “Everybody’s Union” mean to you?

To me the theme gives me a sense of welcoming and inclusivity, which I can safely say is the experience I have had ever since arriving at the airport and meeting some fellow USW members.

What issues will be important when your Local’s contract expires? 

We are just beginning our bargaining process to reach our first collective agreement. I know a few things that have come up are safe working conditions and consistent hours which will lead to consistent and stable pay for a lot of people.

What’s your go-to dance move? 

The octopus. I teach everyone I know whenever I get the chance!

Every leader has a good tune to walk out to when introduced. What’s your walk-up song?

Thunderstruck by AC/DC. Not only is it a great song, but the intro just has a great energetic feel to it that I think hypes people up!

Who would you most like to have dinner with, and why: Jennifer Lopez, Dwayne “the Rock” Johnson, George R.R. Martin, Liz Cheney, Michael Jordan or Drake? 

Definitely Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson! He seems like a funny and down-to-earth guy, and I am sure he has a story or two to tell.

What things have you done or hope to do while you’re here?

I am mostly just looking forward to meeting people and learning as much as I can from all of the wonderful and knowledgeable people at the convention! However, I wouldn’t mind getting the chance to see Cirque du Soleil’s show “O” if I get the chance! 

Have you yet decided how you will put the convention to work when you return home?

So far, I have met a lot of fantastic people and I am hoping to use their advice while moving forward into the bargaining stage. I am looking forward to passing along the experiences and information to my co-workers because there is so much more to the USW than I knew!