Director Spotlight: Raj Brar

Meet Raj one of our Board of Directors.

• Tell us a little about you?

Born but not-so raised in Vancouver. Living in six cities and towns across Canada gives you a solid appreciation for what this city has to offer – not to say The Pas, Manitoba, isn’t beautiful in its own right, it’s just lacking some….. amenities. I spent most of my childhood and young-adulthood in Ottawa, making many visits out west to spend time with my grandparents before eventually finding my way back permanently in early 2020. Much like the rest of you, I spend most of my time playing outside, climbing on walls, riding bikes, surfing on snow or soaking in a sunset at Kits Beach every chance I can get. 

• What is your day job?

I’m an accountant by trade (and surprisingly by choice). I’ve managed to specialize in audit and forensic accounting, and I’m currently with Natural Resources Canada, where I lead audits, advisory projects, and investigations

• How long have you been involved with the nsmba?

I was voted-in November 2023, so officially, my time with the NSMBA is still fresh. Unofficially—once you step foot on the shore, you’re already part of the team. 

• Why did you join the board?

These trails are special and the work the builders are doing to maintain this network is nothing short of incredible. I figured I’d toss a helping hand where I found myself most useful, which just happened to be running numbers for the NSMBA. 

• How long have you been mountain biking?

If by mountain biking you mean making sweet dirt jumps in the forest behind my parents house, then I guess I’ve been doing it since I was 8. That supercycle never stood a chance. 

• Describe your experience on the nsmba board?

Pretty rad. Serving on the NSMBA board has been a fantastic experience, primarily because of the diverse skills and expertise everyone brings to the table. There’s so much happening behind the scenes to keep the trails accessible and well-maintained, and I’ve found myself tackling issues in ways I never would in my corporate role. It’s a unique opportunity to collaborate with leaders from different fields, all united by a common goal and a shared love for the outdoors.

• What have been your highlights with the nsmba?

Without a doubt, working the Fivers. The NSMBA staff put in a tremendous amount of effort to make these events happen, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see how stoked everyone is at these events. From the pre-ride excitement to the energy during the ride, and especially at the après, it’s clear that these events bring so much joy to the community.

• Favourite Trails(on or off the Shore)?

 Cambodia is absolutely rad. The work the builders put in to get Cambodia rolling for 2024 was inspiring 

• How do you spend time off the trails?

Doing whatever I can to play outside. Whether it’s climbing, hiking, running in the summer or riding in the winter.  

Quick-fire

• Describe Riding the North Shore?

Sendy 

• Favourite Riding Season?

Spring no doubt. The end of the ski season brings all the stoke to riding, the dirt is great and I love me some rain riding. 

• Sunrise or Sunset?

Sunset. Always. My camera roll is 80% sunset pictures. 

• Post ride Cafe order?

I’m riding all the way back to Fairview and getting a croissant from Beaucoup Bakery. 

• Song on repeat?

At the moment? Brighter – Rufus Du Sol