A local woman will be speaking about her struggles with addiction and how she's working towards a brighter future.
The 'Enbridge Famous 5 Foundation Speaker Series' will be held on Thursday, February 15 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Four Points by Sheraton, formerly the Sunbridge Hotel and Conference Centre.
Jessica Plain said she had some things to overcome growing up and into her adult life.
"I grew up in a very toxic household and I struggled with addiction for 17 years and out of those years, I spent about ten years homeless on the street and nine years in and out of jail," she said.
Plain is currently enrolled in the Social Service Program at Lambton College.
She said when she first enrolled, she was terrified.
"As I got into the school year I surprised myself by doing extremely well," said Plain. "But there are still sometimes when fear gets in the way but I don't allow that to stop me."
Plain said she now wants to help those who are in similar situations like hers.
"I kind of want to be that listening ear for people that feel like they don't have a voice and I want to encourage them to take the steps in the right direction," she said.
Plain said she currently has two of her kids in her care and her 18-year-old who lives at home is a big help.
"My family is pretty supportive of everything I'm doing, so they all pitch in" she said.
Tickets for the event are $45 and registration will start at 11 a.m.
The Speakers Series profiles successful women who talk about their careers and the challenges and triumphs in their personal journey towards successful leadership.