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Voices of RPIA
In Our Community
Felicia Daryonoputri Associate, Sustainable Investing
Deji Alabi Associate, Client Relations
HIKING When I was growing up in Jakarta, my family would go on an annual hiking trip to a nearby mountain to escape the busy city and enjoy some fresh air. We called it the “tea walk” because a large chunk of the mountain range is used by local farmers to plant tea, which graces the trail with a refreshing scent of jasmine and peppers the area with delicious cafes for a post-hike reward. When I moved to Canada a few years ago, I began hiking locally as an ode to my family’s tradition and to explore new places. Whether it was in BC or Ontario, I was quickly fascinated by Canada’s vast natural landscape. To my surprise, being outdoors has also helped me acclimate and find joy in the cold snowy months. During the pandemic, I would go to a local trail in Waterloo while listening to my ecology lectures, identifying birds and trees along the path. Recently, my friends and I went on a five-hour hike for my birthday which was a lot of fun (minus the mosquitoes). I am looking forward to going on more winter hikes and trying out more international trails!
SOCCER
Maybe you’ve seen one of those documentaries about Brazilian stars like Pelé, Ronaldo, or Rivaldo and how they started playing street soccer at a young age. Growing up in Nigeria, where soccer is a huge deal, my introduction to the game was much the same. I started playing on the streets with neighbors, kicking around anything we could find. Surprisingly (to me), I didn’t turn into Pelé. I continued playing throughout high school, avidly watching the English Premier League to improve my understanding of the game. Thierry Henry was the best player back then and he’s the reason I became a fan of Arsenal FC, and he remains my all-time favorite player. On the field, my biggest strength is probably my accuracy in passing and spatial awareness. I may not be bending it like Beckham, but threading the needle? That’s where I shine. These days, I channel that passion by captaining men’s and co-ed leagues on the weekends. Whether I’m competing on the field or debating the G.O.A.T. (I’m firmly Team Ronaldo), soccer is - and always will be - a huge part of who I am.
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