Four years ago, Wendy Lintunen made a life-changing move from Maple Ridge to Fort St. James, a transition that has profoundly shaped her career and personal passions. Lintunen is the new program manager at Pope Mountain Arts Centre.
Before taking on the role at Pope Mountain, Lintunen spent two years working in the high school library.
Lintunen embraced her new role just a couple month ago and is already excited by it. She said it allows her to merge her love for the arts with her professional skills. “
I love it. I have been my whole life surrounded by arts and culture stuff. That's something that was part of my DNA growing up,” she said.
While her new position is more administrative, she appreciates the opportunities to engage her creativity.
“I’m not a formally trained artist at all, but I like to create,” she adds.
Lintunen said her career trajectory took a notable turn after she moved to Fort St. James, prior to which she spent 25 years in human resources, a field far removed from her current passions.
“It’s nice to be able to finally do something that’s more aligned with my personal passions,” she said, reflecting on her decision to pivot into the arts.
When asked what made her stay in Fort St. James, Lintunen's affection for the community shines through.
“I just love this community. It’s an amazing place, and I think the people here are just lovely,” she explained.
Lintunen appreciates the slower pace of life in Fort St. James, which contrasts sharply with her previous experiences in more urban settings.
“It’s sort of like leaving that rat race behind,” she describes.
In her downtime, she immerses herself in various creative pursuits, including genealogy research, fibre arts, and photography. “This area is a hidden gem,” she insists.
She encourages newcomers to get involved in community activities.
“Whether it’s going to events or volunteering, that’s what will make it feel like home and a community.” Lintunen uses her own unique journey as an example, while adding that connections and community involvement can enrich life in this scenic corner of the province.
