RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCE - MARK RUTLEDGE
Describe your job in just under four sentences.
Owner of MHR Studios.
I am a graphic designer specializing in print and web development. Graphic design is a creative process that combines art and technology to communicate ideas.
Why did you start working in your industry?
From birth. I believe I’ve always been a creative person. I’m also a bit of a nerd who loves technology. I wanted to find a field of work that had both. Graphic design was the perfect blend of those two worlds.
What do you enjoy the most about your job? What aspect makes you learn the most while on the job?
This might sound like a cliché but my job is not really a job. I’ve been blessed to find a career that I’m passionate about. I find enjoyment in learning about new technologies. I’m always learning about new software and advances in communication.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
It is my hope that I’ll be doing the exact same thing I am doing today. Meeting new people, designing for great clients, and loving life here in the Yukon.
What does success look like to you?
To me, success is living a life that is full of enjoyment from the moment you wake up to the moment your head hits the pillow at night knowing that I’ve contributed to society in a positive way.
What has been the most outstanding moment thus far in your career?
One year, I was invited to speak at the Vision Quest conference in Winnipeg, Manitoba. I held a workshop for Aboriginal youth about developing a business. Together, we developed everything from the concept, to the business plan, to marketing and advertising the new business. It was about turning something you are passionate about and making a career out of it. I was proud of the fact that If I had reached through and inspired just one or two of those participants then I did my job. I enjoyed inspiring the youth to achieve something they’ve always dreamed of and to be self-reliant and proud of themselves.
Do you volunteer? If so, where and why is that important to you?
Yes. I have volunteered my time with many organizations. I’ve been a board member for the Makongsag Aboriginal Headstart program in Ottawa, a board member for the Niwasa Aboriginal Headstart in Hamilton, and a soccer coach for the Whitehorse Minor Soccer league. Most recently, I’ve been elected as a school council member for Takhini Elementary. It’s important to me to give back to the communities I live in. It’s beneficial for me to be an example of leadership to my children. To let them know that it is sometimes better to give than to receive and that sharing our knowledge and expertise with others makes for a better community.
Do you have any advice for other Indigenous professionals in Canada?
Keep that fire in your belly burning. Don’t ever let it go out. Always strive to improve yourself both personally and professionally.
What do you think is the most unique challenge for an Indigenous person in your industries?
Believe it or not, I think the most unique challenge is breaking through the stereotypes that non-Aboriginal people have of us such as perceiving Aboriginal peoples in a historical fashion rather than a modern context. We are active in all businesses throughout North America: everything from banking, fashion, radio and television, social media, mining to marketing and advertising.
What made you interested in joining the Indigenous Professional Association of Canada and why would you encourage others to join?
When I started out in this industry, there were very few Aboriginal designers in the business. Looking for an Aboriginal design mentor was not possible because they didn’t exist. When I heard about IPAC I was excited! I am delighted to join and to share my experience and knowledge with the younger generation. IPAC is an organization that gives us the ability to do that. To network and mentor those seeking to improve their lives, their business, their community – it’s empowerment.