Connect How did your love story begin?

Summer 2016, we were both on vacation. I was staying at my uncle's house, while he was staying at his cousin's house — who happened to be next door neighbours. They had connecting backyards with no fences with a dock at the end. He was fishing with his little cousin and my younger brother happened to be fishing. I went to the dock to help my brother change his lure, when we ended up saying hi and fishing altogether. We spent the rest of the week together and have been inseparable ever since.

What is your favorite memory you've shared as a couple?

We continued talking despite living over 1,800 km apart. After 1.5 years of long distance, I invited him to come to my Sweet Sixteen. He flew to my city, had our first kiss at the airport, and attended my party. When he was here, we made plans for him to visit again in the summer. My favourite memory is how that "visit" turned into him moving full-time, to continue our relationship. His dedication to me so early is part of the reason we'll be celebrating 9 years in November of this year.

What would you do with $20,000?

We both work full-time but live separately. Despite wanting to take the next steps, we aren't financially comfortable to do so yet. If we had the gracious and generous opportunity to win $20,000, we would put it towards a down payment towards our first home together so eventually, an engagement ring can be next. He works so hard and we both want to get married in the next few years, so this money would be the most incredible gift to allow us to kick start our futures together.