Paula Amos

Paula Amos, BA, 2000, Major – Indigenous/Xwulmuxw Studies

Every day, Paula Amos calls on the skills that she learned while earning her Bachelor of Arts degree at Vancouver Island University (VIU).

As Director, Partnerships and Strategic Initiatives for Aboriginal Tourism BC (AtBC), Amos looks to bridge opportunities between the Aboriginal and mainstream tourism industries.

Her bachelor's degree, which focused on Indigenous/Xwulmuxw Studies and Business Management, has been pivotal to her professional success. "It's proven to be an excellent combination," says Amos. "My degree has given me the analytic and leadership skills needed to foster strong relationships with communities and government agencies. It also taught me the art of collaboration, capacity building and teamwork."

The talents she acquired have also helped her lead projects. "At VIU, I learned how to take an idea and create the vision of how that idea can be achieved," Amos says.

Her degree was instrumental in terms of landing a dream job with ATBC 12 years ago. "The continued development of the Aboriginal cultural tourism industry presents many economic opportunities, and it's also a key driver of cultural pride," says Amos, who was born and raised in Vancouver Island's Nuu-chah-nulth territory. "It's wonderful to use my education, background, knowledge and experience to give back to First Nations communities in a meaningful way. I'd definitely recommend a VIU degree for anyone seeking a high-quality and relevant BA experience."