The Stories That Brought You Here is a home-spun podcast by resident Chris Wakaluk about the people who have built their lives on Pender Island. Each month, we are pleased to present a story from a recent episode. For the full conversation, check out https://tinyurl.com/craigfehr.
While in their late twenties, Craig Fehr and his wife, Ruthie, decided to make a big change in their lives.
In 2008, they sold their home in Edmonton, packed their bags, and headed out for a year-long trip around the world. One of their major reasons behind this journey was a desire to discover volunteer opportunities, so they could put their individual talents to use.
“What can we do to make a difference in the world? I was a plumber already at that time, and Ruthie was an LPN, a nurse,” Craig said of their thought process at that time. “We have some practical skills and let’s maybe join with a few organizations.” Once the trip was underway, they would wind up volunteering in Papua New Guinea, Cambodia, and other countries as well.
Their epic adventure would eventually take them to Rwanda. While there, they experienced a deep resonance with the country. At the end of their year abroad, they returned home to Alberta, with a plan in place to go back. For the next six and a half years, they would make a life for themselves in Rwanda.
While living there, both Craig and Ruthie met many locals. Part of what they observed from those interactions was the need for employment for some of the vulnerable youth in the country.
“Unemployment is really high and the plumbing in general is really bad,” Craig said in a recent interview. “They say plumbing is one of the things that probably saves as many lives as anything else…just clean water and sanitation.” Craig would go on to start a plumbing business that would not only help create jobs for those who needed it, but would also contribute to creating better plumbing in Rwanda.