Reframing Confidence Through Community

Wondering how to find your voice as a recent graduate or curious about what it takes to grow in the startup space? You’re in the right place! This article is part of an 8-part series supported by RBC Foundation, spotlighting the entrepreneurial journeys of Fellows who are transforming self- doubt into confidence and building careers rooted in impact.

To get some advice, we spoke with two of our 2025 Venture for Canada Fellows, April Batalla and Ishika Jhajj. Their stories highlight how self-trust, collaboration, and community can spark personal transformation—and help you step into opportunities you never thought possible.

Meet the Fellows

April Batalla

Meet April, a graphic designer and marketer who joined the Fellowship Program to explore how entrepreneurship could intersect with creativity and design.

Before the Fellowship Program, April often found herself held back by mental blocks—second-guessing her career choices and even her ability to speak up in professional and personal settings. The program changed that.

“Before attending the Fellowship, I struggled with mental blocks and doubts about my career and close relationships. This year’s program gave me much-needed reassurance in my ability to connect with others and provided clarity around the direction of my career,” April explains.

One exercise that stood out was creating visual webs of personal goals and values. This activity helped April see how much self-awareness influences professional success. “I used to withhold my ideas in group settings due to self-doubt. That exercise helped me reframe how I show up. It turned my attention inward and gave me tools to advocate for myself more. As a result, I now feel better equipped to express my ideas clearly and take on roles where I know I can thrive.”

April also found inspiration in the entrepreneurship panel featuring Narinder, Colin, Farah, and Matthew. She was particularly struck by the nonlinear paths each panelist described. “I was especially struck by Narinder, who started in one direction but later pivoted to something more fulfilling. I interpreted her story as defining passion not as something fixed, but as something you discover and build over time.”

Her advice? “It’s completely natural to feel uncertain or full of doubt, but don’t let that stop you! Many people who once felt the same are now thriving in entrepreneurial careers. That being said: stay open to learning, even in areas you think you already know. Startup spaces evolve quickly, and being curious keeps you adaptable. There’s never a downside to being hungry for new insights, feedback, or skills. That mindset can open unexpected doors and push your career forward in meaningful ways,” says April.

Ishika Jhajj

Meet Ishika, a behavioural therapist whose upbringing and drive to create impact led her to the Fellowship Program. She’s passionate about building work that not only sustains her career but also creates space for others to thrive.

“I applied to the Fellowship because I’ve always felt this pull to create something meaningful, but I wasn’t sure where to start. Being in the program helped me see that anyone can build things that matter. It gave me space to explore my ideas, connect with others who care about impact, and start believing in myself a little more.”

Through hands-on experiences, Ishika realized how capable she truly is. “Working in an environment with ambitious, likeminded individuals helped me push my self-imposed boundaries. I put myself out there entirely; experimented with my skillset and personality to understand how I can make a positive impact in the lives of others in a professional and personal setting.”

Her biggest inspiration comes from her family. “What really shaped me was watching my immigrant parents work incredibly hard and sacrifice so much so I could have opportunities they didn’t. Their resilience and resourcefulness made me want to build something of my own—not just for me, but as a way to honour everything they gave up. Entrepreneurship became more than just a career path; it became a way to turn creativity into impact, and their sacrifices into something bigger.”

Her advice? “Don’t be afraid to try something new just because you’re scared of failing. You have a skillset that’s completely your own and more valuable than you probably realize. You might think you’re not ready, but you’ll surprise yourself. Trust that there’s space for you in the room and that your voice, ideas, and effort matter more than you know.”

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.