This part of the experience has shown me the impact that can come from building community relationships and having genuine conversations with the people and businesses in the community. It has reminded me that leadership is not only about what you say in front of a room or group, but also how you represent your values through everyday actions and connections. Through this outreach, I had the opportunity to connect with four businesses within the Whistler community: Pasta Lupino, Nesters Market, Functional Pie, and Back in Action Physiotherapy. Each connection was valuable in its own way, but together they showed me how strong communities are built through support, trust, and shared investment in people. These businesses are all part of the wider environment that helps athletes and community members succeed, whether that support comes through food, recovery, encouragement, or simply believing in the importance of sport and leadership initiatives.

This experience also taught me that leadership can be quiet but still impactful. Outreach requires professionalism, initiative, and the confidence to represent both yourself and the program well. It challenged me to communicate clearly, be thoughtful in how I approached others, and understand that strong relationships are built through sincerity. Even small conversations can leave a lasting impression when they are genuine.

Most of all, this process showed me that community engagement is a two-way relationship. As ambassadors, we aim to make a positive impact, but we also learn from the people and organizations that support us. I came away from this experience feeling grateful for the community around me and more aware of the responsibility that comes with being in a leadership role.