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My Story: Connecting Urban Life with a Passion for Nature

December 14, 2024 | Martin Rubin

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Image by wondermar from Pixabay

Growing up in fast-paced Toronto in the 2010’s, I have always valued the retreat nature provided me. Looking back on my childhood, the first memories that come to mind are the walks my parents took me on through Edwards Gardens’ beautiful landscapes. At seven, my dad taught me how to bike, and I have been competing in Albion Hills’ annual 24-hour Summer Solstice mountain bike race since. Each year, I look forward to the event -not just for the thrill of racing but also for the chance to relax with my team in the conservation area’s lush greenery between laps.

I also recall months back when the stress of grade 12 was overwhelming, and taking my dog on evening walks while surrounded by Eglinton Park’s colorful October trees would help clear my head. These are just a few of the many experiences that have shaped my deep appreciation for nature and fueled my dedication to preserving it. Through my professional and volunteer experiences, I aim to share this passion by engaging with my community at the local level.

In 2021, I started volunteering at the uptown Yonge Business Improvement Area (BIA). As a volunteer, I contributed to events that united our residents and encouraged people to spend locally. Local consumerism can help reduce individual carbon footprints compared to online shopping and support a more sustainable economy in Toronto. In the summer of 2024, as an intern Project Manager at the BIA, I led a 9-block roadside clean-up project. This experience opened my eyes to the potential of organizations and businesses as key players in promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility.

My involvement as a Youth Mentor with Youth Assisting Youth since September 2023 has allowed me to share my passion for the environment with the younger generation. Together, my nine-year-old mentee and I explore the outdoors, and I encourage him to understand the importance of protecting our natural spaces. This mentorship role has reinforced my belief that inspiring a love for nature in young people is essential in creating future environmental leaders.

In the fall of 2024, I started at Western University to study Management and Organizational Studies, with advanced entry into the Ivey Business School. I look forward to working with Impact Net Zero, where I hope to contribute a unique perspective to their climate change outreach. I will emphasize the importance of corporate sustainability, exploring how emerging green businesses and technologies can drive meaningful change toward achieving a net-zero Canada.

Martin Rubin

Martin Rubin is pursuing an Honours Business Administration through Advanced Entry Opportunity (AEO) at the Ivey Business School of Western University. Beyond his academic pursuits, Martin is passionate about financial news, actively participates in non-profit initiatives, and enjoys playing the electric guitar. The views expressed in this article are his own and do not reflect those of Western University.

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