Mily Peterson hasn’t had any problem finding jobs. She’s worked as a barista, restaurant manager and hotel clerk. But finding a situation that she felt passionate about wasn’t so simple.
Until now.
“It was easy to find a job. I have a brother in the coffee business; I managed a big restaurant in Ladysmith and worked at the Best Western Hotel in Chemainus. I enjoyed these jobs, but something was pulling me to do what I love,” she reflects. “Nothing I was doing was quite the right fit.
There were signals. Peterson was hearing them.
“People would hear my accent and would ask me where I was from.”
When she replied, “Peru” and she spoke Spanish, it became obvious there was significant interest among local people for Peterson to share her native language and offer lessons.
“So, I found a spot in the library and started giving lessons. I asked for donations and didn’t charge a fee,” she says.
It wasn’t long before Peterson had 30 eager students and the group was divided into beginner and intermediate classes. They enjoyed other activities including a picnic at Kin Beach.
Soon, the wheels were turning in Peterson’s mind.
“I was enjoying the teaching so much. I was teaching again! That’s my background.”
Peterson has a master’s degree in education and used to teach at the university in Lima. She comes from a performing family – her parents were both dancers who worked in New York – and she has a passion for drama and dance.
“I grew up surrounded by theatre, dance, musicals and live productions,” she says. “I am the proud daughter of a ballet teacher and a renowned director and choreographer from Lima, Peru.”
What was becoming clear to Peterson was that she could offer more than the popular language lessons by creating a business that drew on her education and skills. She has formed Creart Latin Vibes, found a location and is preparing to accept students this week.
By sharing her Latin culture, she knows students will increase their personal levels of confidence, improve their communication skills and boost their creativity. An Improv Club approach will give participants a venue to act, play and connect with others.
“In my experience I know these things happen and you will begin to understand your body language,” Peterson explains. “I know I can do the same thing here in Chemainus.”
The first sessions will take place on Wednesday, August 5 at the studio located at 9774 Willow Street in downtown Chemainus.
Peterson would like to see people from the age of 16 and up participate in the program that she says will enhance skills that are utilized in the workplace or in school settings.
Mily, who came to Canada six years ago, and her husband, David Peterson, have been in Chemainus for four years.
“I’m in love with Chemainus and the people here,” she says. “Now I want to share my culture, and we can have some fun.”
For more information on Creart Latin Vibes, contact Mily Peterson at 778-268-4877.