This month, we said a teary goodbye to longstanding OTL volunteer, Leonie, who has gone to live in Hong Kong. We wanted to sit down with Leonie before she flew away to find out about her experience at OTL over the last 10 years, what she has loved doing when she’s not at the Tool Library (but spoiler alert: she has spent A LOT of time at OTL!) and why she’ll be proudly wearing an OTL t-shirt all the way over in China.
OTL: Hi Leonie! First off, other than being a swell member of the OTL community and one of the longest running volunteers (10 years!) 😄, who are you?
Leonie: I’m a public servant with Public Services Procurement Canada (PSPC), but I’m currently on a five-year leave to move to Hong Kong. I’ve got a Queen’s degree in electrical engineering.
Outside of work, I love skating in the winter and gardening and biking in the summer. I’m also part of Hidden Harvest Ottawa—I pick fruit with the community and make jams and jellies for friends at Christmas. I live and take care of my Mom, who has dementia and doesn’t speak English. We’re in the midst of a move back to Hong Kong where my Mom will be happier and we can hire a helper.
OTL: Why do you volunteer at the OTL?
Leonie: When I was working 60 hours a week, volunteering wasn’t on my radar. But when my hours dropped to 30–40, I suddenly had extra time. My doctor suggested volunteering, and then I heard on CBC that OTL was opening. I’ve met so many great people here—that’s why I keep coming back. Plus, it’s flexible. I can go whenever I want. Usually, I volunteer two to four times a month, though I’ve been busier lately.
OTL: What’s your most recent DIY project?
Leonie: At Volunteer Appreciation Day, I made a phone stand. It wasn’t too hard, and I think I did a good job! It has a special meaning for me—I used a drill press to design it with a toonie inserted in the stand because I’m moving to Hong Kong. It’ll remind me of Canada when I’m there, and I plan to add a Hong Kong two-dollar coin when I come back.
OTL: Do you have a funny or inspiring OTL memory?
Leonie: Years ago at a Repair Café, an elderly lady in her 90s brought in a spinning wheel that had stopped working. Jim helped fix it, and she was so happy to start spinning again. I also remember a cuckoo clock repair and all the fascinating things people bring in. Those events are full of great stories.
OTL: If you could only use one tool for the rest of your DIY days, what would it be?
Leonie: A step ladder! It’s essential during harvest season to reach fruit high up in the trees. But I also love a plumbing snake and the Moen cartridge remover—look that one up if you’re curious!
OTL: Any shout-outs?
Leonie: Kevin A., for sure. I’ve known him for 10 years, and he’s been a huge emotional support. He’s given me advice for home fixes and even came to my house twice to help replace an element and a switch on my stove. And I really appreciate Bettina for making OTL work so well and who has always worked so hard and with so much passion.
OTL: What’s next for you in Hong Kong?
Leonie: I doubt there’s a tool library there (since most people live in high rises and don’t have much need for tools), but I’ll look for harvest or food-related volunteer opportunities—maybe with Food Angel—or even something at a museum.
Leonie reminds us that DIY isn’t just about tools—it’s about community, creativity, and finding joy in helping others. Safe travels, Leonie, and thanks for being such an amazing part of OTL! We will all really miss you and if you miss us, cuddle your OTL pillow!