Benjamin’s Story: Finding Purpose, Building a Career, and Giving Back

For Benjamin, high school at Abbotsford School of Integrated Arts (ASIA) was a time of creativity, ambition, and self-discovery. Through musical theatre, he found a passion for expressing himself and embracing individuality in a supportive environment.

Behind the scenes, however, there were challenges. Raised by a single mother, Benjamin often faced financial barriers that made it difficult to participate in extracurricular opportunities. When he learned about a school trip to New York City in Grade 11, he was determined to make it happen. At just 15 years old, he got a job the same day he found out he was eligible, working hard to fund the experience himself.

As graduation approached, Benjamin’s future plans were still taking shape. “I didn’t have a clear path,” he reflects. “I just knew I wanted to work with people and find a way to give back.” Like many students, he resisted the pressure to fit into a predefined box, choosing instead to explore opportunities and follow his interests.

THE POWER OF STUDENT AWARDS

Encouraged to apply for awards through Abbotsford Community Foundation’s Student Awards Program in Grade 12, Benjamin submitted applications without high expectations. “I wasn’t the strongest academically compared to others,” he says. “I just thought I’d see what would happen.”

To his surprise, he received multiple awards, including the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #15 Award, the Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce Award, and the Eveline Grace Hardy Memorial Award. “It felt really good,” he recalls. “I didn’t expect to win anything, so it was exciting and motivating.”

These awards gave Benjamin the freedom to focus on his education and discover what truly interested him. “In high school, you’re often just following a path,” he explains. “In post-secondary, I found that I performed much better because I was actually passionate about what I was learning.”

EXPLORING POST-SECONDARY AND FINDING DIRECTION

After graduating, Benjamin began his post-secondary journey at Langara College, enrolling in the Bachelor of Business Administration program. Eager to experience life beyond Abbotsford, he initially felt that opportunities for growth and exploration existed elsewhere, but later felt called back to Abbotsford after realizing that every community has its own challenges.

After two semesters, Benjamin took a two-year break from studies before returning to school during the COVID-19 pandemic. In Fall 2020, he enrolled at the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV), eventually pursuing a Bachelor of Integrated Studies.

His post-secondary experience came with its own set of challenges. Starting university during the pandemic meant adapting to fully remote learning, while other students already had experience with online classes. Disruptions like the November 2021 flooding added further uncertainty.

Despite this, Benjamin embraced opportunities to learn and grow, successfully completing his degree in June 2024. While he looks back fondly on his education, he also recognizes the sacrifices he made. “I worked full-time throughout my studies,” he says. “I didn’t really get the campus experience, but I gained valuable real-world experience along the way.”

BUILDING A CAREER AND SUPPORTING COMMUNITY

Today, Benjamin serves as a Market People Manager for a local McDonald’s franchise, overseeing hiring, training, and development across nine locations and more than 450 employees. His role focuses on people and culture, supporting a diverse workforce that includes students, parents, and retirees.

His journey with the organization began in high school, working in the drive-thru. From there, he steadily advanced, becoming an Assistant Manager after graduation, then a General Manager, and eventually stepping into his current leadership role in Fall 2020. “I love what I do,” he says. “I get to work with such a diverse group of people and build strong teams.”

Beyond his professional role, Benjamin is committed to his community. He serves on the Board of Directors for Archway Community Services, an organization he first connected with in his role with McDonald’s. He has also stepped into the race for local leadership, having recently run in an election for school board trustee and planning to run again this fall.

When asked about his motivation to run for school board trustee, he shared, “Education should be accessible for all students.” “There’s so much potential in Abbotsford, and I want to help create opportunities so future generations can succeed here.”

THE ROLE OF SUPPORT IN SHAPING SUCCESS

Reflecting on his journey, Benjamin credits the student awards he received as a critical starting point. “They gave me a jump start,” he says. “They helped cover tuition and allowed me to focus on saving for the next semester without taking on debt.”

Equally important was the support of his family. “I’m so thankful for my mom and sister,” he shares. “While working full-time and studying full-time, I relied on them to keep me grounded and on track.”

He also reflects on the impact of his high school experience. “Going to ASIA gave me the opportunity to be creative and think differently. That environment really shaped how I approach learning and work today.”

LOOKING AHEAD

As he continues to grow in his career, Benjamin has his sights set on both professional and community leadership goals. He hopes to advance further within his organization, focusing on people and culture at a broader level, while also continuing to pursue a role as a school board trustee.

“I’ve learned that you can’t do everything,” he says. “There are so many opportunities out there, but it’s about finding the right balance and focusing on what matters most.”

To learn more about how the Student Awards Program continues to support graduating students in Abbotsford, click here.