What happens when you know you’re ready for a change, but aren’t sure which direction to take? For Marika Emma, joining Outward Bound Canada’s Youth Career Catalyst (YCC) program opened the door to new experiences, meaningful connections, and a renewed sense of possibility. From a nine-day canoe journey in Temagami to lessons in leadership and active listening, she shares how stepping outside her comfort zone helped her reconnect with nature, others, and herself:
I applied to Outward Bound Canada’s Youth Career Catalyst (YCC) program in the fall of 2025. I remember feeling at a standstill in my life and in my career. I felt stagnant, like the still waters of a bog, but I knew there was a river in me. YCC proved this right. I was frustrated, but that river in me was searching, exploring how I could reconnect with the land in new ways.
I had frequent talks with my mom. You know, the big questions: “Who am I? What should I do for work?” I was in my late twenties, experiencing some failures and challenges, and reconsidering my career direction. I hadn’t had steady work for a few years. I didn’t know what was out there, and I was kind of nervous. I did know reconnecting with nature was necessary.
I remember my best friend telling me to look into Outward Bound Canada(OBC). She is someone who has always encouraged me and looked out for me, sharing opportunities whenever I’ve been in a rut. I did some research and saw that it was exactly what I wanted to do at that moment in my life, so I applied. I was motivated to join because of my love for outdoor adventure and education, and I wanted to develop professionally and prepare for the next step in my career. The Youth Career Catalyst program became a place for me to stop worrying about who I was and start slowing down to really explore something deeper: my inner world.
My favourite thing about the program was the people. I was pleasantly surprised by how encouraged and supported I felt by mentors and peers, and I was given leadership and team-building opportunities that allowed me to see what I’m capable of.
During the program, there were many things that surprised me. I was surprised that I was able to lift a canoe onto my shoulders and learn how to steer it. I was surprised that the people around me had so many diverse gifts and creative ideas. I was surprised by the insights of the group and the direct support I received from facilitators and mentors.
As we got to know each other on a deeper level, people suggested career paths I had never considered. Those conversations opened me up to new possibilities and helped me believe in myself. The young people had so much wisdom and were so much fun to talk to. I was also surprised by how our team was always so willing to push further, go the extra mile, and help one another.
Nine amazing days in the Temagami wilderness
We had the opportunity to be fully present with a smaller group of people on a nine-day, off-grid paddling and portaging journey in Temagami. It was stunning! The narrows in particular felt like an alternate dream universe. We travelled through a twisting, shallow river with warm, light-green water and tall trees all around us. I felt like I was in something out of a children’s book, like The Secret Garden or Winnie the Pooh’s world.
We practically floated downstream. Then, suddenly, the narrows opened up into a beautiful remote lake. We found our way through using maps, docking on rocky island paradises for delicious snacks and water breaks, and then finding a campsite to rest for the night. We prepared meals for one another over the fires we built.
We met with Indigenous Elder Alex Mathias from Temagami and asked many questions as we hiked through the old-growth forests of Northern Ontario to Bear Island. We visited Chee-skon Lake which is home to the culturally significant Spirit Rock. He shared stories with us, and I was struck by his stillness, the simplicity of his lifestyle, and his personal history. I bought his book, Temagami Stories, and his words brought me to tears.
Lessons I’ll carry forward
After the journey, we participated in a workshop with Chantal. We stood in two lines facing one another and had the opportunity to practice being speakers and active listeners. I hold this teaching with me now. I learned how meaningful it is to be an active listener and to be fully present with others. I learned not to be afraid of speaking with people, but to genuinely enjoy the stories they share.
My next steps are to continue to think about the things that bubble up inside me and address them with love, compassion, and opportunity. To never stop exploring and to think about how I want to represent myself, and where I want to go next. I also got a job at a summer camp thanks to YCC, and it was also truly a wonderful experience. Both environments fostered a sense of care and education about nature and a love for canoeing. I was surrounded by a great team of people who had a mutual love for the outdoors and a sense of joy for life that was contagious.
YCC helped me understand my strengths by putting me in a completely new environment away from home for the first time. I learned from my peers how edifying it is to stay positive, curious, and ask personal questions to get to know one another and connect. I’m more confident in myself when interacting with others professionally.
I’ll be starting an office job soon, with a newfound confidence that I have professional and communication skills from OBC. The days with OBC will stay in my heart forever. In the more distant future, I would love to have more opportunities to travel. I would say OBC reignited my flame for leadership, my desire to travel, and my care for the earth.
About Marika Emma:
Marika is a writer, nature lover, and a thinker. She loves learning about people and having outdoor adventures in the forest. You can find her on adventures on Instagram at @revitality.
Ready to start your own Youth Career Catalyst journey?
Looking to build your confidence, develop new skills, and explore career opportunities through outdoor adventure? Outward Bound Canada’s Youth Career Catalyst program could be your next step!
Dates for our 2027 program will be announced soon. In the meantime, learn more about the program and how to register.
