Meet Your Neighbor

Meet Jenny Leal! Jenny and her family moved to Lakewood Drive in 2013. The only thing Jenny knew about Minerva Park was that her parents lived across the street and enjoyed the neighborhood. She had to trust their judgment as they were moving with their three young sons—Joshua and twins Ethan and Isaac—from Beijing, China! The family quickly grew to love the village as well. They treasured having a yard, being within walking distance to the playground, and having a pool in the neighborhood. When the boys were younger, they especially enjoyed the family-friendly community, the elementary school located in the village, and the MPCA children’s events.

Born in Nepal, Jenny lived in many countries before settling in Minerva Park. She felt at home surrounded by diverse cultures but yearned for deeper connections. After earning her master’s degree in public health from Ohio University, she co-founded Elevate Northland and currently serves on its board. Elevate Northland’s mission is to uplift people from diverse backgrounds and create opportunities. Each September, they host the Northland Unity Fest, a vibrant celebration of the area’s many cultures.

Jenny continues her passion for outreach as the Assistant Director of the Youth Focus Program for the Bhutanese Community of Central Ohio.

Her parents have since retired to Delaware, but the family still gets together weekly. The youngest, Joshua, is a Westerville South High School student and plays clarinet with the Youth Philharmonic of Central Ohio. Ethan is continuing his education, and Isaac recently started working at his dad’s insurance agency.

Jenny remains engaged in Minerva Park by volunteering for MPCA events and participating in the book club and the MP Food Group. She cherishes being part of this close-knit community and cherishes the many neighbors who have become friends!

Fun facts: Jenny and her brother were born in Nepal and lived there as children. They had the opportunity to return last Spring and visit the areas and some people from their childhood! Jenny has lived in many countries and is conversationally fluent in French and Chinese. Jenny has two masters from Ohio University. The first was in journalism which helped while living in China, as she was an English copy editor for a TV station. 

Jenny is also a proud member of the Vaud-Villities group in Columbus. She’s been a member for 4 years and is looking forward to their next show this month!

 

If you would like to be featured in a future Meet Your Neighbor article, please email ErinCaseyOxender@gmail.com