Finding the “Why”: Purpose-Driven Builders

Wondering how to ground your career in purpose or curious about what it takes to turn lived experience into entrepreneurial impact? You’re in the right place! This article is part of an 8-part series supported by RBC Foundation, spotlighting the journeys of Fellows who are building careers rooted in meaning, resilience, and societal change.

To get some advice, we spoke with Emily Vilcsak, a 2025 Venture for Canada Fellow, disability advocate, and founder. Her story shows how clarity of purpose and the right community can transform uncertainty into conviction—and help you build with both courage and impact.

Meet the Fellow

Emily Vilcsak

Meet Emily, a disability advocate and founder whose drive to create societal impact led her to the Fellowship Program.

When Emily joined the Fellowship, she was looking for connection and clarity.

“I had just wrapped up my Master’s, was running a small agency, and felt caught between chapters. The Fellowship gave me space to reconnect—with my purpose, my values, and people who just get it. It reminded me that being a disabled entrepreneur and creative leader isn’t something I have to navigate alone. This community helped me show up more boldly and believe in what I’m building.”

For Emily, the program was about more than skills—it was about identity. “The Fellowship changed how I see myself and how I show up in my work. I stopped downplaying my lived experience and started owning it as my edge. For the first time, I felt seen as a disabled entrepreneur and supported as a leader with a different lens. The program helped me clarify my purpose, sharpen my voice, and build the kind of community I didn’t know I needed. I’m moving forward with more confidence, more clarity, and a deeper belief in the impact I’m here to make.”

Her entrepreneurial spark started early. “Entrepreneurship was in the air growing up. My dad ran his own business, and I was watching and learning. Before I turned 10, I had already launched a bracelet-making business and a home spa. I didn’t have the words for it then, but I loved creating experiences, solving problems, and building things from scratch. That early spark never left—it just evolved. Now, I help others do the same through strategy, storytelling, and systems that scale.”

Emily’s advice for future Fellows? “Lead with the problem that keeps you up at night. Don’t chase trends—chase the pain point you’ve felt, lived, and can’t stop talking about. When your ‘why’ is wired to your lived experience, you’ll cold-email strangers, iterate through failures, and pitch with fire in your eyes—because the mission isn’t optional. Purpose is the best runway; capital and credentials follow conviction. Start there, and the right people and resources will sprint to catch up.”

This blog is intended as general information only and is not to be relied upon as constituting legal, financial or other professional advice. A professional advisor should be consulted regarding your specific situation. The information presented is believed to be factual and up-to-date but we do not guarantee its accuracy and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the authors as of the date of publication and are subject to change. No endorsement of any third parties or their advice, opinions, information, products or services is expressly given or implied by Royal Bank of Canada or any of its affiliates.