“I was already in school for something else,” Brook says, “but I kept coming back to guiding. It’s where I thrived. I wanted more—more knowledge, more structure, more growth—and that’s what led me to ATBO.”
Brook Jeethan wasn’t your typical adrenaline junkie when she arrived in Golden, BC, to start the Adventure Tourism Business Operations (ATBO) program. Originally from Northern Ontario, Brook had a background in canoe tripping and was already working as a guide through the spring and summer but was pursuing a different degree. Over time, however, she found herself repeatedly drawn to adventure tourism. It became clear to her that this wasn’t just a seasonal job—it was a sign to chase something more.
Along with a close friend, Brook made the leap to Golden for a chance to step outside her comfort zone, explore new regions, and experience life beyond her home province for the first time.
From her background in canoe tripping, Brook had a strong connection to water, but ATBO was her introduction to the ocean. Sea kayaking soon became a new passion.
“It was something I’d never thought I’d get to do; I am so grateful for the experience.”
The program also pushed her to try more new activities like rock climbing and snowboarding, helping her to build confidence and develop leadership skills.
“It helped me realize that I didn’t need to be the best at something to enjoy it. I just had to be willing to learn.”
Brook now serves as the Camp Director at the summer camp she grew up attending—leading and mentoring new generations and planning to take her passion global. As she continues working as a guide while aspiring for higher roles within the Adventure Tourism industry, Brook is also growing her own business, @brooks.customs. She encourages anyone considering the program to take the leap, even if they don’t fit the mould.
“You don’t need to have it all figured out. Just show up, be willing to try, and trust that you’ll come out the other side with a whole new sense of who you are and what you’re capable of.”