Proust Questionnaire
Scott Tywoniuk | Chief Financial Officer, ARTA
Scott Tywoniuk Responds
1. W
hat is your favourite virtue?
The virtue I admire most is honesty. Most people who
know me know that I speak up on issues and offer an
honest opinion. I respect people that are honest and
take accountability. I try not to just talk the talk but to
walk the walk. I’ve made many mistakes over the years
and learned some very valuable lessons along the way.
Making mistakes is a human condition — it’s how we
learn. Owning up to our mistakes and being honest to
ourselves and others — that’s what in my opinion helps
us grow.
2. What is your greatest regret?
Not starting my bucket list sooner. I started my list
more or less at the age of 39 — and have crossed
many things off. Some items were crazy, some were
dangerous, and quite frankly some were in hindsight
ill-advised. I’ve met some really great people along
the way. I’ve had some great laughs and done some
remarkable things. I probably spent more money than
I should have — but I think moments are worth more
than possessions.
3. W
hat is your idea of misery?
A horrible boss. I’ve only had one horrible boss.
I didn’t last very long in that place. Looking at the
positives — that boss taught me the value of having a
thick skin.
Since graduating from university in 1993 I’ve
been very fortunate. I’ve been provided with a lot
of ‘opportunities’ — that’s code for ‘a lot of rope to
hang myself.’ I’m thankful for the mentors along
the way (John Murphy, David Wickenberg, Darren
Buma, Jody Caskey, to name a few) and the many
co-workers who passed on their knowledge. I try to
give back whenever possible to people I work with
today as a result of these experiences.
Scott Tywoniuk (right) hiking the West Coast Trail.
4. What is your motto?
“Stay the course.” Everyone runs into obstacles and
roadblocks in their lives. I realized early on that when
staying positive — and focusing on end goals — things
always work out. It might not always be according
to your plan, but it’s where you were supposed to be.
Whatever doesn’t kill you generally makes you stronger.
5. What is your favourite place in Canada?
My favourite place to spend down time is Vancouver
Island. Parksville, Port Alberni, Tofino, Ucluelet, and
Pacific Rim Parks were some of my family’s favourite
camping and surfing spots over the years. We’ve spent
many great summer vacations out on the coast. More
recently I completed the West Coast Trail (solo) — an
experience that I found life changing. I was fortunate
enough to see grey and killer whales, sea lions, bald
eagles, and even had a brief run in with a black bear
cub and mama. I met some incredible people from
around the world along the way. ●
news&views AUTUMN 2019 | 41