JANUARY 20, 2025 |
Currently in his final year at Okanagan College in Kelowna, majoring in accounting, Koal is preparing for his next big step: an accounting position in Red Deer, where he will work towards his CPA.
Originally from a small town outside Saskatoon, he’s excited about the many ways this change will foster a path of growth. Koal sees new opportunities—like moving to a new city—as an open door to becoming even more independent and achieve personal growth. It’s through exploration that he discovers more about his purpose in life.
Working with a highly reputable company means a lot for his future as an accountant. He shares, “I potentially want to start my own small firm in the future, and my job opportunity in Red Deer can greatly help. By going through the CPA program and increasing my skills and knowledge, in a place that’s fairly close to home, allows me to gain a lot of experience to get to the next level of my career.”
Putting down roots in new places is something in which Koal is experienced. He spent several summers working in the Yukon, drawn by family ties and the opportunity to witness the region’s most vibrant season (the winters were less appealing, he notes). And during his time in the Yukon, he held an accounting job that added valuable experience to his resume.
As someone with the confidence to create new opportunities, Koal transferred to Okanagan College after his first year at another university, seeking a better fit with smaller class sizes and a strong business program. This move proved beneficial, providing him with more hands-on learning and continuing to foster his love of sports. As a pitcher for the Okanagan Coyotes baseball team, he’s learned to balance his time between academics and athletics—sustaining a passion he’s been dedicated to since he was five years old.
Koal describes receiving the Indigenous Scholarship and Bursary from First West, as transformative. Sharing that the financial support has been crucial and is allowing him to focus on his studies and baseball without the burden of financial stress.
Looking ahead, Koal foresees his career in accounting, ideally in British Columbia, where he will continue to find mentorship program and build connections with professionals in the field.
Koal’s pursuit of his future is a story resilience and determination, and we wish him continued opportunities and support along the way.
Learn more about First West’s Indigenous Scholarship and Bursary