River’s Story: Turning Dreams into Reality
River had always harboured a lifelong love of the outdoors. Growing up, they spent countless hours exploring forests, fishing in tranquil streams, and dreaming of a future deeply connected to nature. However, life had not always been easy for them.
Referred to an employment agency by the Social Services department, River was a single 24-year-old receiving general welfare assistance. Their life had been a series of ups and downs, marked by periods of reliance on welfare for the past two years. During this uncertain time, River participated in a series of employment counselling sessions, each lasting an hour. These sessions were a turning point for River, as they represented the first time someone genuinely asked them what River wanted to do with their life. Previously, River had always been told to “just get a job” without anyone considering their passions or dreams.
A key motivating factor emerged through these sessions: River’s dream of running a northern outfitting lodge. This vision ignited a spark within River, fueling their desire to pursue a career aligned with their love for the outdoors. River envisioned a future where they could be self-employed, running their own business. River dreamed of owning a large business enterprise that offered one-stop shopping for outdoor enthusiasts. Their enterprise would include fishing, fishing ponds, motels, and outfitting gear and supplies.
However, River knew that there was much to learn to turn this dream into reality. River needed to understand the intricacies of running a business, so they began by researching who provided outdoor services in the region. River recognized the importance of developing a mentor relationship with an expert and set out to find one. River also took the initiative to interview local fishermen to understand their needs and preferences.
To build job-seeking skills, River attended a Job Find Club. This step proved to be invaluable. Through the club, River secured work with an outfitting company, gaining firsthand experience in the field they were passionate about. Moreover, River found an outdoor guide who became a mentor, meeting with them every Saturday. This mentorship provided River with practical knowledge and guidance, further solidifying the path toward achieving their dream.
Motivated by their goal, River accomplished many milestones. River’s dedication and hard work transformed their life, setting them on a path to eventually realizing their vision of owning a successful outfitting lodge. Through persistence, learning, and the support of mentors, River was well on their way to turning a passion for the outdoors into a thriving business.
