“I run ProMontreal Entrepreneurs, which is a social business, meaning that our return on investment is young people staying in Montreal and building a career and a life here. It’s a full circle initiative that really tries to help young people realize that if they invest in their future, the possibilities are endless. It’s rewarding when young people realize they have infinite potential, and that if they just undertake something, they can achieve greatness. It doesn’t matter what socioeconomic background you come from, creating your own job, your own business, can help break the cycle of poverty, and can contribute to the broader community.

I came from extreme poverty. I worked two jobs to put myself through university: I worked during the day as a teacher, went to school in the afternoon, and then worked at night in bars. I did that for five years and then I graduated with two BAs. Then I got my first big job and then I went for my Master’s degree and then I got my second big job and then I created a job. I’ve never let anybody define my future, I’ve never let anyone define my path, and I’ve always followed my dreams. If you don’t follow your dreams, you’ll work for someone who did.”

Category: People