This blog post was inspired by an activity in my social media class where we discussed the WellBeing wheel. It highlights various aspects of life that contribute to overall well-being, including social, community, work, financial, physical, and mental aspects.
Reflecting on this activity reminded me of my initial worries when I moved to Canada. Starting anew in every aspect of my life was daunting—a new country, environment, and status after leaving the corporate world for a while, returning to studies, making new friends, and exploring the adventure of co-founding a startup. Everything was new, and the challenge of adjusting to both personal and professional changes felt overwhelming.
Finding Support through Communities
Moving to a new country and transitioning into a new industry while being a student again was not easy. I had to navigate unfamiliar territories in my personal and professional life. The shift from a well-established career in the corporate world to the uncertainties of consulting, starting up, and studying was significant. I often found myself grappling with the fear of being unable to keep up and questioning my decisions.
During this transition, the importance of community became more apparent than ever. Being part of supportive communities, personally and professionally, played a crucial role in helping me adjust and grow.
PERSONAL Growth through a Community of the Same Faith
Joining the One with God Community, a group of men, women, and families united by faith and the desire for spiritual growth, has been a blessing. This community has become our family’s family away from home, making our adjustment to this new country much smoother with the support of friends we lovingly call brothers and sisters.
The One with God Community provides a valuable space to connect with others with similar values and beliefs. Our gatherings include sessions on personal development, spiritual teachings, and group discussions, all of which foster a deep sense of belonging and mutual support.
June 2024 Women’s Retreat (Source: One with God Community Facebook post)
One of the most impactful aspects of this community is the opportunity to share our journeys, challenges, and triumphs. Listening to others and sharing my experiences has helped me gain new perspectives and reinforced the importance of community in personal growth. This community has demonstrated that no matter our challenges, having a supportive network can provide the strength and encouragement needed to overcome them.
According to an article from BetterUp, “Community provides a sense of belonging and social connectedness. It can offer extra meaning and purpose to everyday life.” This sentiment perfectly captures this community’s profound impact on my life, providing support and a deeper sense of purpose.
While there are many types of personal communities, each offering unique benefits, the essence of the community lies in its support, connection, and shared purpose. As BetterUp highlighted, there are various types of communities. Still, the common thread is that they all help foster a sense of belonging and connectedness, enriching our lives in meaningful ways.
PROFESSIONAL Growth through Schulich Community Networking
Embarking on my journey at the Schulich School of Business has been an enriching experience, particularly in building new networks. The diverse cohort of fellow students and esteemed professors, all experts in their fields, have fostered a fertile environment for learning and growth. Transitioning into marketing and co-founding a startup was made smoother with support from new friends, mentors, and mentees at Schulich, offering a refreshing sense of community and collaboration.
The networking events through the Master of Marketing program and Schulich Startups have been particularly beneficial. These events have provided invaluable platforms for engaging with industry professionals, exchanging ideas, and exploring potential collaborations. Attending the Schulich Startup Mixer, for example, exposed me to other startup founders and deepened my understanding of the dynamics of SMEs in this region, offering practical insights and opportunities to learn from seasoned entrepreneurs.
Schulich Startups Spring Mixer’24 (Source: Schulich Startups LinkedIn post)
The ongoing networking opportunities and mentoring support from the Schulich School of Business have been invaluable, expanding my professional network and providing the guidance and encouragement needed to thrive in a new industry and country. These relationships are proving vital as I navigate my growth and continue to explore new avenues in my career. The profound impact of our community on my professional development cannot be overstated. The supportive environment at Schulich continues to empower me, emphasizing the importance of networking and community as I strive towards achieving professional excellence.
The Synergy between PERSONAL and PROFESSIONAL Communities
Reflecting on my journey, it’s clear that both personal and professional communities are essential for overall growth and well-being. The personal connections formed through faith-based groups, like the One with God Community, provide emotional support and help me adapt to new environments. Similarly, the professional relationships developed not only through events at the Schulich School of Business but also with fellow students in my cohort, open up new possibilities and expand my business horizons. These friendships are proving just as influential as the formal networking opportunities, enriching my experience and providing both personal camaraderie and professional insights.
The synergy between personal and professional communities is significant. Personal growth enhances professional life by providing a strong foundation of confidence and resilience. Conversely, professional growth fuels personal life with a sense of achievement and purpose. Together, these communities create a balanced and fulfilling life, driving continuous improvement and fostering meaningful connections.
According to an article from Happiness.com, “Being part of a community can increase happiness, provide a sense of belonging, and improve mental health.” This perfectly captures the dual impact of community on enhancing personal satisfaction and professional success.
Whether it’s a faith-based community or a startup networking event, being part of a supportive community can significantly enhance personal and professional growth. Everyone is encouraged to seek out and engage with communities that resonate with their values and aspirations. The rewards are immeasurable, and the journey is deeply enriching. By participating in these communities, you can gain a sense of belonging, share common goals, and find the encouragement needed to overcome challenges and achieve success.
I am Elma Antimano – a Product Innovator, an Early-Stage Startup Co-Founder, a Mentor, a Master of Marketing ’24 candidate, and a seasoned leader with over 25 years of experience in FMCG (Procter & Gamble, Mondelez).
