Week 8: Paige Misfeldt, CPA, CA

 

Please tell us a little bit about yourself. 

 

Growing up in Vancouver I’ve always been an athletic person, running, soccer, badminton, tennis, hiking, rock climbing, yoga, you name it! It wasn’t until about 7 years ago though that I discovered dragon boat, and I have to say, I have never played a sport with such an immense sense of community, teamwork, and family (not to mention the full body workout) – I was instantly hooked.

 

After finishing my CPA, CA designation in 2013, I decided to take my passion for paddling one step further, and try out for a local competitive team in Vancouver who were training for the 9th IDBF Club Crew World Championships in Italy at the time. Since then, I’ve also been fortunate enough to represent Team Canada and compete in the 2015 and 2017 IDBF World Nations Championship in Canada and China. I am proud to say that my dragon boat family and sense of community continues to grow, as I now strive to give back to the next generation of paddlers through coaching, volunteering, and lending a hand where possible.

 

How has sport helped you develop skills for your work today?

 

Dragon boat is a unique sport, in that it is one of the largest non-contact co-ed sports around. With a team of 20+ individuals, you learn a lot about working with different people to achieve a common goal, and what it truly means to be a team player. Unlike many popular sports (hockey, soccer, basketball, etc.), there is no concept of a “ball-hog” or “star player.” Every person on the boat makes a difference, and it is only by working together that you can truly be successful.

 

Who is a leader you admire and why?

 

I look up to people in my life who have achieved what I aspire to. In the past this included my mom, and my former coach, but more recently this has been the Head of Audit at HSBC Canada, who exemplifies the type of leader I want to be. What makes me admire her most is that despite all her accomplishments and success, she still finds ways to challenge herself, admit her shortcomings, and improve.

 

What is one piece of advice would you have for young female athletes today?

 

Do what you love, and don’t let anyone stop you – including yourself.