Building a Better Tomorrow
Courtney Hughes | Community Visionary
“If I know that I’ve made a positive difference, then I feel good…It’s about making things a little better than what they were.”
Nature is endlessly humbling and inspiring. Gazing up at a mountain or down at an expansive river valley, reminds us that we’re a part of something bigger. Peace River’s Courtney Hughes not only feels that macro connection, but she also understands the responsibility that comes along with it.
During the day Courtney is a Conservation Social Scientist working full-time as the Biodiversity Specialist in Peace Region for the Government of Alberta. After hours? You’ll find her anywhere from Misery Mountain to Belize: organizing fundraisers, educating children, saving animals, lifting weights, breaking the laws of time and space—she does it all.
Helping and being involved come naturally to Courtney. “It’s just part of who I am. I strongly believe in service. Whether that’s for other people or furry friends and critters of the earth,” she says. She’s currently volunteering with five local organizations as well as supporting four international initiatives. Balance isn’t exactly her goal. “I think if there’s a need, I’m probably one of the first people to put my hand up…It can be challenging balancing—because there’s not really a balance. It’s just a matter of…what you’re going to put your energy into,” she says.
Time is something Courtney uses to her advantage. We all have the same 24 hours, but she knows how to maximize each moment. “When people say they don’t have the time, I think a better way to look at it is: how am I going to prioritize my time in doing things that I want to do? It’s about making the time for the things I think matter,” she says, “I feel like I have a more rich, full life because I do more.”
Her impressive mind and skill set allow Courtney to accomplish a lot—but it’s her heart that truly guides her. "I love the feeling I get when I help. If I know that I’ve made a positive difference, then I feel good. If I can see someone smile or…know that an animal’s not suffering, and that they’re healthy and cared for…Then that’s what it’s about. It’s about making things a little better than what they were,” she says.
When you consider Courtney’s personal and professional body of work, the idea of building a legacy comes to mind. She’s creating a brighter future, multiple endeavours at a time. “When it comes to animals, wildlife and conservation, or human welfare, I think it’s really important to be part of that. And that’s what I want to leave on this earth if I’m not here anymore,” she says.
Miserable Miles Obstacle Race:
In the Woods Animal Rescue:
Peace Regional Restorative Justice Association:
Rotary Club of Peace River:
Mighty Peace Barbell Club:
Namibia Cheetah Conservation Fund:
Grizzly Bear Foundation:
