Lead From Where You Stand: Constable Judith Drover-Janes’ Message to the Next Generation

When Constable Judith Drover-Janes first put on the Ottawa Police Service uniform 19 years ago, she knew she was stepping into uncharted territory. As a Black woman entering a profession where few looked like her, Cst. Drover-Janes carried more than her badge — she carried the hopes of the women who would come after her.

“I started policing later in life — I was 36 when I joined,” she recalls. "I never thought I’d be hired because I had never seen anyone who looked like me in the role.”

“Representation matters; it lets people see that they belong here too, and that it is possible.”

Today, Judith works in Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI), where she works to promote fairness, diversity, and inclusion within the police service and in its interactions with the community through policies, training, recruitment, and engagement.

She is also passionate about mentoring and inspiring members, especially racialized members who are just beginning their policing careers. Her message to the women of our organization is simple but powerful: be yourself, and lead from where you stand.

“Leadership isn’t about rank,” she says. “It’s about how you show up, how you treat people, and how you use your voice no matter your position or title.

Judith believes that authenticity is strength. In a field that can feel rigid or traditional, she encourages women to embrace who they are fully and unapologetically, and reminds them that they are needed, valued, and that they bring skills and talents that are essential to policing and building strong community relationships.

 “Don’t assimilate to fit in,” she says, clarifying how much she despises the expression ‘fitting in’. “You were hired for your talent, your empathy, and your skills. So, wear your nail polish, wear your lipstick, be who you are. You can be feminine, strong, and a great police officer all at the same time.”

She reminds others that hiring to reflect the community is only a first step; real change requires more. 
“It’s one thing to bring someone in,” she says. “It’s another to support them once they’re here — to mentor them, to help them reach their potential and develop in their career. Otherwise, it’s just performative.”

In her role with EDI, Judith uses her lived experience to help bridge that gap — advocating for fairness in promotions, lateral transfers, and leadership opportunities. She’s a firm believer that equity isn’t a zero-sum game.

“Equity isn’t a pie,” she says with a smile. “More equity for one person doesn’t mean less for someone else. It means leveling the playing field so everyone can thrive.”

Her mentorship extends beyond style and confidence; it’s about helping others find meaning in their work and pride in their growth. Judith tells new recruits that policing is about people — listening, communicating, and building trust in the community.

“If you’re coming into this job because you truly want to make a difference, then you’re in the right place,” she says. 

Now, with five years left before retirement, she’s focused on giving back: mentoring others, inspiring future leaders, and encouraging more young Black women to see themselves in uniform.

Outside of her day-to-day work, Judith also uses her LinkedIn presence to spark honest conversations about leadership, the importance of representation, equity and women in policing — sharing reflections that challenge, inspire, and encourage others to think differently.

Her advocacy hasn’t always been easy. Speaking truth to power comes with its share of resistance, but Judith’s resolve has only grown stronger. “I’ve been vocal,” she admits.

“Because I’ve lived it. And if sharing my story can make things better for the next generation, if it resonates, sparks understanding, and even inspires some, then it’s worth it.”

For Judith, true leadership isn’t worn on a sleeve — it’s built through courage, authenticity, and the determination to make space for others to rise.

“Stay true to yourself,” she says. “Protect your peace, know your worth, and lead from wherever you stand.”