About the project: Ottawa (de)tours is a social enterprise that provides walking seminars with a twist on various complex issues that are shaping Canada and Canadians. Guides lead small groups on leisurely walks around Ottawa’s streets that are most imbued with significance for a particular seminar theme. Think of it as a cross between a Jane’s Walk, an urban terrain exploration using a particular lens, followed by a meal or drinks.
How Ottawa (de)tours started
In early 2013, we had an idea for a business that is: always inspiring and empowering; physical and tangible, not simply virtual; sustainable; philanthropic, and unique. Ottawa (de)tours was incorporated federally in early 2014.
The name
The bracketed “(de)” plays with concepts of deconstruction and deviation. Our walking seminars help people think critically about the past, the present and the future.
What we do
Whether you’re a first time visitor to Ottawa or a local, we will offer you a unique place-based experience.
Our walking seminars offer individuals a chance to delve into issues of national importance.
Guides lead groups of up to 8 along a 1.5 hours walk through the local hotspots related to the seminar theme. This offers a chance to learn and (re)think.
Then, over lunch or dinner, guests can discuss and network.
What we believe:
• We believe people should get to know their cities, their neighbourhoods, and their neighbours if they want to know where they came from and where they are going.
• We believe learning to “read” a city is fascinating and that what’s not out there tells you almost as much as what’s out there
• We believe everybody has a bias and that that is quite alright. Our seminar guides believe in disclosing their biases; they will tell you plainly what their side of the narrative contains, where it fits in with the official narrative, and what other currents of thought exist on the issue
• We believe power relations are everywhere, and that the powers that be usually form the official narrative around any issue. We also believe there are many narratives around topics as complex as the ones we showcase, and that that plurality of knowledges is important
• We believe people are creatures drawn to narratives – stories are the most powerful learning tool; we want to use it for good as our guests dream and imagine what can be
• We believe people’s lived experiences are more valuable than the most insightful of books; we are constantly amazing and inspired by the iconography of central Ottawa, and the depth and expertise among its citizens
• We believe stories need to be shared before they are lost. We have amazing stories among us – if we have ears to hear
• We believe people have to use technology to their advantage (hint: book their walking tours online), but that they must come live in the physical world
Period active: January 2014 – May 2019
My role: Co-founder
Skills gained: community organizing, public speaking, in-depth research, business development
Website: www.ottawadetours.ca (no longer active)
