Virtual Gurus
We are so pleased to introduce Bobbie Racette, Cree Metis, She/Her is the inspiring founder and CEO of Virtual Gurus. We are so inspired by Virtual Gurus work continuing to create jobs despite the economic downturn.
Tansi Bobbie, tell us about our business, what is Virtual Gurus?
Virtual Gurus is a two-sided marketplace that matches onshore Virtual Assistants with business and entrepreneurs using a proprietary algorithm. We provide back office support on-demand when you need, you can either pick a dedicated ongoing VA or a by the task using our task-on-demand Slack app. We operate in Canada and the U.S.A.
What was the inspiration for starting your business?
I was working in the Oil & Gas industry when the recession hit Alberta and I knew a layoff was coming. I was super worried that I wouldn’t find work for a long time after that. I decided to create something with the hopes of creating jobs for other people. People who have struggled finding work, like marginalized folks. I ultimately wanted to use my platform to give work to those that are often forgotten.
Why entrepreneurship? Or What drew you to entrepreneurship?
When I look back to this time 5 years ago, I was working doing 12 hour night shifts. I had no real direction as to what I aspired to do with my life. Being aware that layoffs were coming, I knew I had to figure something out. Fast forward to present day, I wouldn’t change being an entrepreneur for the world. I found my calling. I love the independence of knowing that I am in control of my own destiny. I enjoy figuring things out and the moment I see a tiny bit of success (even if it’s just a small milestone) it excites me to continue on my path.
How is your business making a difference in the community?
When I first started Virtual Gurus, I didn’t realize it was going to be as big as it is now. After a couple of years of it successfully growing I realized that I needed to use my own platform to provide work to marginalized communities. Virtual Gurus mandate is to provide work to those that are typically forgotten. Single stay at home moms trying to make ends meet, or people who are transitioning genders and need a safe space to work (LGBTQ+ and Indigenous people).
How is your culture reflected in your business strategy? Or how does culture inform your business. Why is this important?
Culture is very important to us. We start by putting our social mandate on our website. We want to make sure we “walk the talk” when it comes to why we do what we do. This starts by making sure that all of our contractors and staff believe in our mission. We are loud about our social mandate and this is super important. I challenge every business out there to do this. You will attract those that appreciate the company culture you created.
Who is another Indigenous entrepreneur you admire?
Jeff Ward with Animikii. He’s a leader on a mission and I look up to that. If you read his social impact mission, you will see that their mission and hope is to inspire the next generation of Indigenous youth to choose technology and entrepreneurship as a career path.
We need more of this.
We totally agree. What are some challenges you’ve overcome on your journey?
I think one of the main challenges was believing in myself. Knowing that I could do this and I was the right person for the job. I was lucky enough to have investors and advisors who believed in me and encouraged me. For the first couple of years, I wasn’t confident that I could do this. I wasn’t sure if I could take Virtual Gurus to where I knew it had the potential to go. However, I put those thoughts aside and it took everything in me to learn what I could. I surrounded myself with amazing advisors and I got involved in everything I could just so I could learn. I am happy I stuck with it. I’ve proven to myself that - I can do it!
What is some advice you would give to an Indigenous entrepreneur just starting out?
Believe in yourself and don’t be afraid to reach out to get support.
Most importantly, keep an open mind!
Kinana'skomitina'wa'w Bobbie!
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