Trust: Operation Entrepreneur
July 5, 2023
Update from BrewKnow // Looks like I'm going to Regina, Saskatchewan for my first few steps into entrepreneurship. I've been accepted into Operation: Entrepreneur, a program by Prince's Trust Canada for Canadian military veterans.
After more than a decade serving the crown in uniform, it's comforting to find a program where I can learn business fundamentals in a environment suited to my unique challenges as a veteran. Just a few years ago, I was studying doctrine for what the UN calls disarmament, demobilization and re-integration (DDR) while attending the Canadian Army Command and Staff College, and now I will live it.
The idea for UrsaTV came to me in Destin, FL eating Panda Express in my roadside hotel room. I had to cover for a client's late response on my annual vacation. The few days I had to refocus on the world's wars - this client had Ukraine case-studies - made it really difficult to be present and unwind. Depressed starring at the tv, I let my mind roam widening my career outlook to include options further away from National Defense.
I always admired my friends who challenged themselves with entrepreneurship, especially in the hospitality and entertainment industries. I finally found something that is making me equally brave. Somewhere between the words jester and innkeeper, I started envisioning a local bar that specialized in esports. Something that can give me purpose, independence and a unique way to finally build my village - a privilege after a lifetime of nomadic service.
My Master's in Global Diplomacy and service as an intelligence officer resulted in little opportunity to practice bookkeeping or budgeting. I hope Operation Entrepreneur helps me translate my knowledge and experience into value for my future business.
July 12, 2023
Update from BrewKnow // Our cohort gathered online for the first time in preparation for our trip to Regina. It feels quite good to be amongst fellow veterans for the first time in more than a year.
The Operation Entrepreneur team walked us through an online icebreaker designed as a vibe-setting activity. The light-hearted way eased us into the bootcamp, allowing participants to introduce themselves and share their business aspirations... with a challenge to start articulating business needs (aka asking for help).
The Icebreaker: Setting the Tone
As a Canadian military veteran, transitioning from a life of service to the world of entrepreneurship can be both exhilarating and daunting. The discipline, leadership, and resilience gained from military service are invaluable assets. However, when mental health challenges intersect with this transition, articulating business needs, especially in settings such as an online icebreaker before an entrepreneurial bootcamp, can become surprisingly complex.
Translating Military Experience
Veterans often face the challenge of translating military experience into the civilian context. Military jargon and achievements may not easily convey the skills and competencies relevant to entrepreneurship. Finding the right language to articulate how military experiences shape business goals requires careful thought and can be mentally exhausting.
Mental Health Stigma
Despite growing awareness, mental health stigma persists. Veterans might worry about being perceived solely through the lens of their mental health challenges. This fear can lead to reluctance in sharing openly about their business ideas or personal experiences, potentially stifling authentic communication.
July 28, 2023
Update from BrewKnow // The Operation Entrepreneur bootcamp at the University of Regina, hosted by Prince's Trust Canada, was a unique opportunity for veterans looking to transition into the world of business. As a veteran who participated in this program, I wanted to share my experiences, highlighting the good, the bad, and the ugly.
The Good
One of the most rewarding aspects of the bootcamp was the camaraderie among fellow veterans. We all shared a common bond, having served our country and now facing similar struggles with identity, Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC), and the lingering physical and emotional aches of service. Spending time with others who truly understand these challenges was comforting and empowering.
Furthermore, the involvement of Regina business leaders was an inspiring addition to the program. These professionals volunteered their time to consult on our business projects, offering invaluable insights and guidance. Their commitment to helping us succeed was evident and deeply appreciated. Having access to such a wealth of knowledge and experience made a substantial impact on our entrepreneurial journeys.
The Bad
Despite the program's strengths, there were areas that needed improvement. Some of the business school faculty struggled to adjust their teaching methods from those suitable for undergraduates to those that would be effective for veterans. Veterans bring a wealth of experience and a different perspective to the classroom, which requires a teaching approach that acknowledges and builds upon their unique backgrounds. Unfortunately, this wasn't always the case, and it occasionally hindered the learning experience.
The Ugly
One particularly uncomfortable aspect of the bootcamp was the pressure to support the program through photographs with veterans. While it's understandable that the organizers want to showcase the program's success and impact, the sense of anxious pressure to participate in these photo opportunities was palpable. It felt as though our genuine experiences were sometimes overshadowed by the need to present a polished image for Prince's Trust Canada.
July 29, 2023
Bruno was selected by his peers to address His Honour The Honourable Russ Mirasty, Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan during the program’s graduation dinner. He spoke about the challenges of identity as a newly retired veteran.
