This incredibly versatile talent has risen as an author, artist, and a beacon of hope, positivity, and inspiration to live with passion, resilience, and love for the arts.
The world has witnessed the rise of numerous professionals across fields who rose from the ground up and went ahead to create a unique path of success for themselves. Among these, a handful of professionals further pushed boundaries and questioned norms, all to walk on unconventional paths and create unconventional success for themselves while also inspiring others along their journey. It is astonishing how a few among them, especially from the female brigade, have stunned the world with all they have done and had to offer through their work. Standing tall among such incredibly talented beings is Roxsane K. Tiernan, who believed in her dreams and thus went ahead in conquering her chosen fields.
Roxsane K. Tiernan has had and continues to have a journey of creativity, courage and, most importantly, the confidence to make a positive difference in the world, something not many have dared to do in their journeys. She is not just an artist or an educator but also a beacon of positivity, hope and inspiration who harnesses the power of creative arts, resilience and a strong belief that has impacted lives and how. From a childhood marked by challenges to a lifetime of achievements in the arts, education, and community service, Roxsane has shown the power of determination, commitment, and resilience in leading people toward their desired goals.
Roxsane was born into a challenging environment and her early life experiences shaped her perspectives toward life and helped build in her resilience. As a mere 11-year-old, she learned to wield an axe, chop firewood, and shoulder responsibilities far beyond her years. She left home by the age of 17. She forged her path all on her own, completing her education while staying with supportive individuals who became pivotal personalities in her life’s journey. At 19 years, she taught in a one-room school, guiding students across grades 1 to 8. Her involvement with Girl Guides and Girl Scouts became a lifelong passion. She organised handcraft programs for thousands in Nova Scotia and led international camps and initiatives, allowing her to make international connections and foster empowerment.
A few harsh realities of life hit her, including personal losses and the untimely death of her youngest daughter and her husband. However, instead of losing hope, she chose to move ahead with determination and courage to create a meaningful impact in the world through her work. She completed her Bachelor of Education and became an ESL teacher, helping students from diverse backgrounds find their voice in a new language. Her one-of-a-kind “Cabana Challenge,” emphasising creativity, sustainability and cultural awareness, was implemented for decades. Roxsane also made her mark globally, when she became a program director for a World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts center in Cuernavaca, Mexico, inspiring young women to find and live their purpose.
Going beyond education, Roxsane K. Tiernan is an exhibiting member of the Federation of Canadian Artists. In 2014, she led a group of British Columbian artists to Guiyang, China, fostering cross-cultural artistic exchange. In the following year, she hosted Chinese artists in Canada. Her incredible artworks on platforms like Roxssart and Etsy showcase her commitment and vibrant spirit to make a difference. With her paintings and books like ZIP, Art and Soul and Zipping Along, she invites people to find their niche, realise their true potential, embrace it and contribute to a better world.
Her vision is clear that everyone has the power to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Today, through her art, writing and community work, Roxsane K. Tiernan shines bright as a ray of hope and inspiration.
