Meet Linnea! She uses her compassion to try and create social change and help heal others! 

Where are you from and how long have you lived in Victoria?    
It’s been my home base for over a decade, but my heart belongs to many places. I’m really proud to have roots in Alert Bay, BC.

Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My dad was my favourite person to spend time with. He created an environment where everyone could get together and share beautiful moments.

Describe yourself in one word.    
Compassionate.

If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
New Zealand. I’m interested in connecting with the rich culture of the Maori people there. I love learning about the cultures and teachings of other Indigenous people.

What is your favourite activity in Victoria?    
I love hiking! I also enjoy that you can walk a lot in Victoria. It helps me ground myself.

What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
When I was little I had a milkshake, and when I was climbing out of a two-door car I tripped over the seatbelt, and my milkshake flew in the air and landed on my head. My dad laughed hard at me, and I cried. I can laugh about it now.

What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?    
I’ve been fortunate to have a lot of magic in my life. One of the most inspiring things that has happened to me was becoming involved in activism. I connected with so many people who felt similarly to how I did. I didn’t feel so alone and… out of place anymore. I realized there’s so much beauty in the world I hadn’t discovered yet.

Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I’ve always felt that a big part of my purpose in life was to connect with others and create a safe space for healing. I take on so many projects that directly speak to that purpose, and try to create those environments in places they don’t exist. I do a lot of public speaking, advocating Indigenous rights and youth empowerment.

If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
I’d really like to see a shift of values in the world. I really believe that change is possible if everyone stands together.

Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I tend to be quite reserved, but I’m very eccentric. The longer you get to know me the more quirky I become.

How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)    
Twitter, Instagram,  Facebook,  Linnea Dick 

What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?    
I really struggled with my identity for a long time. I wanted to fit in, so I became superficial. It alienated me from everything that was truly fulfilling – that was a really tough lesson to learn.

Tell us your best piece of life advice.    
"Find your voice. Share your story. Speak your truth."

What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Becoming the role model I wish I had as a youth. It makes me feel proud to be a mother, as well.

Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
Joshua Watts – he’s an artist committed to the cultural revitalization and empowering youth!

My choice for the VictoriaNow In Focus spotlight is:    
Joshua Watts!

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In Focus is our gift to the community. A way for us to help show our recognition of the people, businesses, and organization that help make our city great. Thank you, Victoria!