I grew up wanting to be a professional mountain biker, but never had the right supports in place. Instead I decided to be an artist, even though I had no clue what that looked like. I put sports aside, and became obsessed with painting and making jewelry. I learned to prioritize my creative studies which led to me making jewelry and painting full time, and between the two creative outlets I paid my own way and met my responsibilities for the next eight years.
Over the past decade, my life has been consumed with organizing aesthetics. After spending most my time in an introverted environment, I felt increasingly disconnected from people in my life. I began to recognize the value in socialization, and can now see that I was hiding behind my art. I began making an effort to interact more, but noticed my way of thinking, speaking, and contributing to conversation was rather abstract. I had to really practice being social in a way that allowed me to communicate and connect but still be me. I learned how to bridge my inner creative world with the present social moment. This is an intuitive based skill set that I am grateful to have a relationship with, and share with others.
Returning to Nelson after being away always feels like coming home. Not only am I integrated into a strong and loving community, I have reconnected with my love of riding bikes and taking on the elements; it has transformed my world. I am happy, and I have direction.
These days, I seek out ultra endurance athleticism, competitive cycling, and I am able to physically challenge myself in ways I never thought possible. I am also active in the Nelson bike community, a mural artist, and more recently, education assistant and community support worker. I want to share this love of life with others, particularly youth, and encourage them to embrace who they are while developing skills and confidence.
Growing up with my Mom and sister, I often sought male mentors who were a good influence and wanted to spend time with me doing fun things. I am grateful and inspired that I now get to offer this to others. Mentorship and guidance will look different for everyone, and that is a part of the beauty in this chosen path; I provide a community focused, person-first based practice. My personal exploration combined with my academic pursuits allows me to hold space for a variety of interests relatable to children and young adults, and I believe my abstract and creative mind offers comfort for people who are neurodiverse, and people with disabilities.
I am excited to engage in work that increases community connection in a way that also supports individuality and authenticity.
Thank you for your interest in my work and my approach to individual support ~
Living in Nelson as a child in the 90’s had a huge impact on my life. I was free to ride my bike, and I lived fully in my body.
Being diagnosed with ADHD at a young age validated the complications in my academic progress, but i managed to find solace in extreme sports and nature. If I wasn't riding around the city and skateparks, I was building bike jumps in the forest. Anything and everything with wheels had to be ridden.
My name is Jakob Salix Mathews, and I am the sole proprietor of Kootenay Divergent Recreation. This is the path of support work I am called to, and I am excited to explore the potential with people in my community.
Certifications
Education Assistant & Community Support Worker Selkirk, 2021/22
SPECTRUM - Lifespan Autism Training & Resources Selkirk, 2019
Emergency First Aid Child & Residential Care CPR Lifesaving Society, 2022
Avalanche Safety Training Level 1
White Water, 2018
