Meet Rena (they/them), an Adventure Studies Certificate student who brings a rich blend of lived experience, creativity, and curiosity to the program. Born in Tokyo and raised on the West Coast, they’re passionate about the healing power of the outdoors and community. Rena arrives with a spirit for challenge and a deep appreciation for the wild places that shape us.
Tell us a little about yourself — where you’re from, what you’re passionate about, maybe a fun fact, or anything else you’d like to share.
I was born in Tokyo, Japan, and grew up on the West Coast of British Columbia. Most recently, I have been living on the unceded traditional territory of the lək̓ʷəŋən People, known today as the Esquimalt and Songhees Nations (aka Victoria).
I’m passionate about the healing power of the outdoors, creative expression, community, movement, laughter, and the versatility of tofu.
Fun fact: I played rugby for seven years, and fought forest fires for four years!
What drew you to this program, and what are you most looking forward to this year?
Growing up, I never imagined myself in many outdoor adventure spaces. It took me a long time and a lot of unlearning to understand myself. I now recognize how powerful representation can be in shaping who feels welcome in different spaces.
In my late 20s, I was naturally re-evaluating my entire life. I figured it was time to jump into uncertainty again and felt that the Adventure Guide Program was a great way to combine many things I love and am passionate about.
I am most looking forward to the rock and surf progressions, learning more rope skills, and meeting more weird people to do wild things with.
What do you hope to do with your training after completing the program?
I hope to find my niche within the adventure industry and help make outdoor adventure more inclusive, so that more people have the chance to experience the magic that it has to offer.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about applying to Adventure Studies?
If you’re thinking about it, it means you should probably just do it. It feels like a cannon event, even just a few months into the program. You will meet people and do things that will alter the course of your life.
