Zhea P.

What was the most interesting thing you learned about your topic?

Donald Hings (creator of the walkie-talkie) had already been extremely fascinated by radios and communication technology in general. When he was 14, he built his first crystal radio set. Another thing I found interesting was the fact that he was not born in Canada. He was born in the UK but basically grew up here. It goes to show that being Canadian doesn't necessarily have anything to do with blood but with attitude and compassion; true Canadian spirit.

What important lessons have you learned that you want to share with other Canadians?

Take a chance and work hard for it. At such an early age, Donald Hings already had a knack for inventing things. When he grew up, Hings worked for a mining and smelting company. He was encouraged and even supported by his colleagues to share his knowledge and experience to solve common problems aviators comonly faced. This then led to the invention of the walkie-talkie; a device professionals use all around the world.

How would you compare your life today to the lives of those studied in your project?

I am very fortunate. People back then, especially soldiers and the military, would have had such a hard time communicating but because of Donald Hings' invention, a new way of communication opened up and inspired others to further perfect it.