Solicited Advice from our Co-President Duo

We are typically not huge supporters of unsolicited advice, so we made sure to ask our outgoing Co-Presidents, Jasmine and Valentine, to share their thoughts on the following topics so we can apply what they learned to our own experiences going forward. Keep reading to learn about what our Co-Presidents want you to know about career, business, and all things YWiB Vancouver!

Any insights on Careers and Networking that you wish you had when you were first starting out?

V: Don’t be afraid to ask for help and support! I would highly recommend joining a mentorship program, it’s a great way to unlock your potential and develop new skills! I attended the Blueprint Mentorship Program with YWiB Vancouver a few years ago. This mentorship program has been one of the best decisions I’ve made for my personal and professional development.

J: Build a diverse network, by way of getting involved in non-profits, clubs, social initiatives, etc. Whatever fuels your passions and curiosity, make the time and be willing to immerse yourself in the causes that will shape your immediate surrounding world. It may be hard to see its tangible ROI at the time, however the fullness of experiences you will encounter will be priceless. And, do so with humility and genuine interest as that’s where you will meet some of the most fascinating persons you will ever come across and who in turn will become lifelong allies. 

Do you have any general advice you would like to share with the community?

V: Volunteering is such a rewarding experience! Not only it connects you with others but it increases your self-confidence and provides a sense of purpose!

J: Invest the time in “getting to know yourself”. Often we are too focused on our outward goals, grades, achievements, etc. Over the years, I’ve realized the most important relationship we’ll ever have is with ourselves. One way I have discovered more about myself is through the practice of journaling. The time we spend in solitude paves the way to a deeper understanding of oneself, allows us to be present, and bear witness to our experiences.

Any other career, school, or business insights you want our community to hear?

V: If I had one career advice to share, it would be to stay true to yourself. Keep an open mind, stay curious, challenge the status quo and get involved! And more importantly, be patient, you’ll see, your hard-work will pay off! 

J: I’d say to remind oneself that “progress isn’t linear” and neither is one’s career trajectory and to do so often. Our lives are composed of micro-experiences, which when weaved together results in the impactful story of your being. However, at times in the present moment it may appear to be messier than you can handle. Don’t let that stop you, trust your instincts, take risks, work hard and be disciplined. Perseverance is the foundational element of the person you eventually want to become. Keep marching on!

YWiB Vancouver Insights 

For Our YWIB Vancouver Newcomers:

V: Do not sell yourself short! You’re smart, talented and you have so much to offer! Go for it, challenge yourself, stay focused!

J: As cliché as it may sound, I’ll have to borrow the aphorism “You get out as much as you put in”. Though, this is with everything in life isn’t it? YWiB Vancouver is a safe space that is filled with camaraderie, curiosity, and a shared vision of creating an equitable world for women of all backgrounds. We know the journey is long but we are willing to do all that it takes, and we do it while having fun, growing, and learning a whole lot. So, we say – hop on, find something that fuels your creativity, build friendships, laugh, and walk away with a full set of novel experiences. 

For Our Amazing Community: 

V: Staying positive during those uncertain times can be quite difficult. And it’s totally ok to feel vulnerable and anxious. Keep fostering human connections through virtual communication tools, keep cultivating empathy and self-compassion, and stay hopeful. One day at a time. Do not forget, we will get through this together. 

J: Firstly, we want to thank you for being a part of our journey so far. 2020 has brought with itself so many firsts, during this unprecedented year we were presented with a unique opportunity to re-evaluate our status quo. Our team bravely took on the challenge and committed to an entirely virtual roster of events. However, we believe in change and to create a fulfilling experience for our community. As we continue to evolve, adapt and create new programming –we’d love to hear from you. Reach out and tell us what you’d like to see from us? Again, our hearts are full of gratitude. Stay safe Vancouver!