Spring 2024 Alumni Address: Armando Camara

One of the biggest risks he ever took in life, was also the best. In his Spring 2024 alumni address, Master of Global Management alum Armando Camara shares his Royal Roads journey and the four key learnings he took with him.

“Success rarely comes without some level of risk,” Camara said.

And he should know. He left a good job and his home country to study at Royal Roads. Seven years later, he’s never looked back.

Watch his full address to hear his other words of advice or read a transcript below.

You can also watch the full address by Graduate Certificate in Corporate Social Innovation alum April Hicke and find more videos and photos on our Spring 2024 Convocation page.

Congratulations to all of you on the significant achievement of completing your program.

Today marks the end of one journey and the beginning of another.

As you step out into the world as new Royal Roads graduates, I want to remind you of a few key things that will help you guide in your future endeavors.

First and foremost, remember to always takes risks.

It is through taking risks that we truly grow and learn.

Success rarely comes without some level of risk. So don't be afraid to step outside of the box or your comfort zone and try something new.

Embrace challenges and believe in your abilities to overcome them.

Each risk you take will only make you stronger and more resilient.

I have been an adventurous person who has taken risks in life.

The biggest of this was leaving a consolidated position at Nissan Motors.

I resigned to move to a different country to pursue a master's degree in global management,

but also to start a new life.

These are the kind of risks that help us grow personally and professionally.

And today, after seven years, I can tell you that this was the best decision I could have made.

A few years ago, I was sitting where you are sitting as a new graduate.

I know the uncertainty of asking yourself, what's next?

Don't worry, the pieces of the puzzle will fall into place and I'm sure you will be successful.

Secondly, strive for your work life balance.

As you enter the workforce, it can be easy to get caught up in the demands of your job and forget about the importance of self-care and personal relationships.

Remember that a healthy work life balance is essential for long term success and happiness.

Make the time for yourself, your family, and your friends.

You will find that you are more productive and fulfilled

when you take care of all aspects of your life.

Somewhere along the way, I put my work before my personal life without thinking

that the time is something so precious and will never come back.

I missed important moments of my loved ones that I was not part of, but I realized the mistake I was making and that it was not worth it.

It was not worth putting them in second place because they were the ones who cheered me and pushed me to become a better person without asking for anything in return.

Remember that your family and close friends will always be there for you.

Your learning here at Royal Roads University has changed your life in profound ways.

You have gained knowledge and skills that will serve you well in your future careers.

But you have also grown as individuals. Remember the values that Royal Roads University holds dearly. Caring, creative and courageous.

These values are not just words in one page, but principles to live by. Incorporate them into your work and daily life, and you will undoubtedly make positive change on the world around you.

Lastly, never stop learning and thinking outside of the box.

The world is constantly changing and as new Royal Roads graduates, it is important to stay ahead of the curve and adapt for progress.

Progress isn’t a straight line. It demands learning and determination.

Seek out new opportunities for growth and education, whether through formal training programs or independent study.

Challenge yourself to think creatively and find innovative solutions to problems.

Your ability to adapt and think outside of the box

will set you apart in your field.

Don't wait for change. Drive it.

As you move forward in your career, remember the lessons you have learned here

at Royal Roads University.

Take risks. Prioritize work life balance. Live by RRU values and always strive to learn and think creatively.

The world is yours to conquer, and I have no doubt that each of you will go on to achieve great things.

Congratulations, graduates!

The future is bright and it's yours for the taking.