“There are many possible paths not just the right and wrong choices – so I think of choices as a range of possible risks to take” Meet Beedie Luminary Mentor, Cara Jones
Work Title | Company:
Organization Development and Learning Consultant, HR Services | University of Victoria
Why did you decide to become a mentor with Beedie Luminaries?
I was invited to become a mentor by a respected community leader, who prompted a few women on our Board to become mentors. I’ve been a mentor with other organizations for years and I am truly grateful for the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with young adults.
What was your favourite subject in school?
I’ve always loved learning about people, so courses in history, social studies, world religions, intercultural studies, anthropology and Human Resources were my favs.
What was your first job? What was your biggest takeaway from that experience?
My first job was as a lifeguard and swimming instructor. I really love helping people learn. This foundational part of my job has continued through my whole adult life.
What are the three qualities that got you where you are today?
Being genuinely interested and curious about people. Supporting people to find their purpose and learning how to build skills to live into their best selves.
Do you have a “favourite failure” of yours?
Too many to list. I now think of our lives less as “wins or failures”, and more as taking a risk and learning from the results. There are many possible paths, not just the right and wrong choices – so I think of choices as a range of possible risks to take.
What book(s) have greatly influenced your life?
SO MANY! A few of the more serious reading / listening influential books are: Inclusion on Purpose by Ruchika Tulyshan; Learning in Relationship by Ron Short; The Leadership Challenge by Kouzes & Posner; Daring Greatly by Brenѐ Brown. And I read a TONNE of fiction books which are my great escpae after long days LOL!
What advice would you give to post-secondary students as they prepare to transition into the working world?
Talk to people about their work – get curious, ask lots of questions to help you decide if the work is something you will enjoy.
What / where is your happy place?
I love to travel – so pretty much everywhere that’s not home.
What is a dream you have that you have yet to achieve?
Being retired and living in Europe for a while.
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