Becky Armstrong: A BDO success story on the water and in the office

During a special interview on the topic of #WorkplaceDiversity, Becky shared her experiences with her BDO colleagues in our Disability Employment Awareness Month webcast, recounting her remarkable path to the 116th World Dragon Boat Championship in Thailand. ?? ??♀?

Q: Can you tell us about your journey at BDO?

A: I've been with BDO for 24 incredible years, starting as a CA student in 1999 and now serving as an Internal Accounting Manager. Despite being diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) in 1994, I pushed through, earning my CPA qualification in 2001, and excelling in various roles within the company.

Q: What inspired you to get into dragon boating?

A: In 2014, I got involved with VocalEye, a local charitable organization dedicated to making live performances accessible to people with vision loss. This led me to the BC Blind Sports Dragon Boat program, where I found my passion. Dragon boating erases disabilities; it's all about 20 paddlers and 1 heartbeat.

Q: How did you end up in the World Dragon Boat Championship?

A: In 2022, I learned about the newly introduced para division by the International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF). Canada's participation ignited my determination. With just two weeks' notice, I decided, "If not now, then when?" Age is no barrier to pursuing dreams!

Q: What happened at the World Dragon Boat Championship?

A: I made the paradragon team and represented Canada. Together, we achieved incredible success, contributing to Canada's impressive medal count. The para team also established a world record as the first-ever para dragon boat 2k gold medalist.

Q: Any key takeaways you've learned from this journey?

A: Teamwork and togetherness are paramount, and differences in age and abilities don't matter when we work as one. The competition showed the true spirit of dragon boating – never giving up. This vital lesson not only mirrors the championship's ethos but also my personal experience at BDO; my growth and development within the firm since the day I joined.

Becky Armstrong's journey reminds us that perseverance and passion can conquer any obstacle. We are #BDOProud to have her on our team, and we can't wait to see her continued success on the international stage.