ERRATUM! Read Jessica’s June 28 blog here!
Hi everyone, allow me to introduce myself. My name is Jarryd Smith. I am part-time community animator for the WE Dads program, a new role that JH Partners created earlier this year.
I was born and raised in Melbourne, Australia. After a short stay in Montreal in 2011, I returned to Australia for a few years, officially moving to Quebec City in 2018 with my wife and son. Since moving to Québec City, my family has grown from three to four, and I have even started to enjoy winters. I only saw snow for the very first time at age 23 when I was living in Montreal. I thought it was so cool to experience this for the first time. Have you ever seen a Kangaroo ice skating? Well, that’s me.
I have a Bachelor of Applied Exercise Science and Human Movement from Victoria University, Australia. Upon completing my degree in 2010, my career path progressed naturally towards fitness coaching. I set up a bootcamp business in Melbourne, training clients year-round in outdoor settings. In 2018, I transitioned into online fitness, specializing in helping men take control of their health by developing better eating habits and increasing their daily physical activity.
Some of you may already know me, because in 2019, I partnered with the Wellness Centre on a pilot project known as “Dadventures”. Back then, before COVID-19 hit, I was leading outdoor activities for English-speaking fathers and father figures. I think that my new role as part-time WE Dads animator is a great fit for me because not only do I love leading groups, I am on a mission to help men improve their health. I look forward to supporting you, my fellow WE Dads.
So what is in the plans for WE Dads?
I believe in a world where everyone can reach their full potential, mentally, physically, and socially, and hope you will join me on this journey through a range of activities to come. Be sure to join our WE Dads Facebook group, then stay tuned for our virtual campaign to take place during the Semaine de la paternité (Québec Fatherhood Week) from June 13 – 19. You can also find our activities listed on our events calendar which features our Family Matters happenings identified in orange text.
I hope to meet you at our Outoor Family Kick off to Summer event on the morning of Saturday, June 11.
Happy Father’s Day and bye for now,
Jarryd
