Camyar (Program Manager, Community Cultural Development)

What does a normal day in your role look, sound, and feel like?
I am fortunate in that I have a very dynamic and varied role. A typical day may involve having online meetings with artists who want to apply for a grant to welcoming arts groups and students who practice their craft at the Richmond Arts Centre. I also supervise the Media Lab and am involved with setting up filming public service announcements for other departments. When they are permitted, I lead events teams such as our annual Children’s Arts Festival.

What is your story? How did you get to where you are now? 
I immigrated to Canada, with my family, when I was 11 years old and now it is 40 years later! I went to high school in North Vancouver. I have a BFA in Theatre Acting and an MFA in Theatre Directing. I had a great career working in film, television, radio and theatre both in front of and behind the scenes. I founded a theatre company that grew to be one of the most successful in Canada. I also worked in the social services as the Executive Director of a youth leadership program. Ten years ago, I was fortunate enough to see a job posting in the Arts at the City of Richmond and here I am.

What parts of your work inspire you? 
Serving the community, seeing people inspired by the arts, working with teams of really good people who I learn from every day. 

What advice would you give your Grade 9 self? 
Try your hardest to be great at whatever you choose to do. Don’t beat yourself up if you try and fail. Enjoy being in school and getting an education. 

Any words of encouragement for today's Grade 9 students? 
You are our future and you are lucky to live in an amazing corner of the world. Use that opportunity well and believe in yourself.