Transforming Spaces and Lives: How Jacqueline Williams and the Uvaro-Digital Nova Scotia Partnership are Redefining Tech

In 2023, Uvaro, in collaboration with Digital Nova Scotia, began an innovative partnership through the Tech Sales Plus program, funded through Digital Supercluster. This partnership extended beyond mere skill enhancement; it was the driving force for significant career advancements and professional evolution within the Atlantic region. Our mission was clear: to enrich the vibrant local workforce by integrating 100 new highly trained workers. The program excelled in equipping participants with modern sales techniques, foundational career skills, and versatile, transferable competencies, fostering a skilled and adaptable workforce throughout Canada's Atlantic provinces.

In this context, we spotlight the journey of Jacqueline Williams, a standout among these 100 trailblazers. Her story transcends a typical career transition narrative, embodying the profound impact that targeted training and communal backing can have in aligning personal ambitions with professional trajectories. Jacqueline's involvement with Uvaro is a testament to the tangible achievements and transformative prospects that such partnerships can cultivate.

Now, let's dive into the key parts of Jacqueline's story, giving you a close-up look at how her life and career have changed, and how these changes are part of the bigger tech revolution happening in Atlantic Canada.

Who is Jacqueline Williams?

I'm Jacqueline Williams! I'm someone who is deeply passionate about architecture and accessibility. I was raised in an environment where I learned about engineering and construction development through my father while watching him sketch, estimate, and build good relationships with those he worked with to achieve a final product. He taught me that work can be a lot of fun, and still "works" into the early morning hours on one project or another.

My mother, a nurse, provided me with a different perspective. As a child, I had access to the nursing home she worked in, spending time with the residents, and listening to their stories. This not only allowed me to observe the different abilities of people around me but also the additional care required to create spaces that are easily navigable and promote independence. I also spent much of my childhood in the church, observing those of various ages and abilities interact with one another in a social setting. My mother taught me the love for community, and how our environments impact our ability to participate.

My roots are in Nova Scotia, a place known for having the highest rate of disability per capita in Canada. This reality has significantly shaped my perspective and my career path. Seeing the needs of my community firsthand, I have always been driven to create spaces that cater to everyone, regardless of their abilities. It's more than just a profession for me; it's about providing meaningful access to our spaces, making them universally accessible and inclusive.

In founding 'Universally Designed', I wasn't just starting a business; I was pursuing a dream. A dream to change the world of architecture, to create spaces where accessibility isn't just an option but a norm. My journey, inspired by my parents and rooted in my Nova Scotian heritage, is a continuous effort to build not just buildings, but bridges to a more inclusive and accessible world for everyone​​.

How did your perspective on accessibility evolve, and why is it so important?

My perspective on accessibility has evolved, and it's a topic that's deeply important to me. I've come to understand that accessibility isn't just for those with obvious disabilities or mobility issues. It's actually for everyone. That's the core reason behind naming my company 'Universally Designed.' I wanted to emphasize that accessibility benefits all, not just a select few. It's about creating ease of access for everyone, whether that's a young person, a pregnant person, or someone who needs a bit of extra help.

What I've realized is that universal design isn't just about helping those who we typically think of as needing it. It extends to everyday situations like someone trying to bring in heavy packages or navigate a space with ease. It's about making life more manageable and convenient for everyone.

This approach to accessibility is about viewing it from a holistic perspective. Once we start understanding and implementing it in this way, I believe that the concept of accessibility will make sense for the general population. It's not merely a niche requirement; it's an essential aspect of creating spaces that cater to the diversity of human experience and needs. That's why I'm so passionate about it — it's about making life better and easier for everyone, a philosophy that's at the heart of everything I do at 'Universally Designed'​​.

What drove your passion for architecture and construction, leading to the creation of 'Universally Designed'?

My journey to founding 'Universally Designed' was a combination of my past experiences driven by a vision for a future that more people could enjoy.

Having many loved ones with disabilities, seeing their struggles over the years, and then being personally affected by a common car accident, made me understand the way our designs and environments impact our daily lives.

These experiences instilled in me a strong sense of purpose. I realized the significant gap between how buildings were traditionally designed and the actual needs of a diverse population, particularly in Nova Scotia, where we face a higher rate of disability. This realization spurred my desire to make a tangible difference in the field of architecture. I wanted to create spaces that weren't just visually appealing or structurally sound, but also genuinely inclusive and accessible to all, regardless of their abilities.

Therefore, when I established 'Universally Designed,' it was more than just launching a company; it was about embodying a vision and a commitment. My goal was to challenge and transform the conventional norms of architecture and construction. I aimed to create not just buildings but inclusive environments, ensuring that every aspect of the design considered accessibility as a core element. This mission of 'Universally Designed' was my answer to the lessons of my youth, a pursuit to integrate empathy and practicality into the very essence of architectural design, making accessibility the norm in every project we undertake​​.

Were there any past experiences that led you to entrepreneurship or changed how you thought of starting your own business?

One of my most impactful jobs was right after I graduated from university, before heading into college. I was hired for eight weeks by an entrepreneurial couple, and I was their first employee. This experience was pivotal for me — it truly instilled in me a love for entrepreneurship. They gave me tasks with not much direction on how to complete them, just a simple request like, 'Hey, I need this done, can you do it for me? Thank you.' This freedom and autonomy allowed me to explore and learn on my own, which I found incredibly fulfilling.

What I cherished about this job was the ambitiousness of it all. It was a dynamic environment where I was encouraged to take the initiative and figure things out, which was both challenging and exhilarating. This exposure to entrepreneurship played a crucial role in shaping my approach to business and my entrepreneurial ventures later on. It taught me the value of autonomy, initiative, and the thrill of building something from the ground up.

What role has Uvaro played in your professional journey, particularly in your goal to create 10,000 accessible units?

My experience with Uvaro has been a crucial part of my professional journey, especially in my goal to create accessible units. I've always understood that having a great product isn't enough if you're unable to sell it. Despite my background in commerce and some experience in customer service, I realized that I lacked a strong foundation in sales. This was a significant gap in my skill set, considering my ambitions. Joining Uvaro was a pivotal decision for me. It was an exciting opportunity to truly understand the nuances of sales, something I was eager to develop. I saw it as a vital step towards realizing my dream​​.

One of the most significant milestones in my journey with Uvaro was setting the ambitious goal of creating 10,000 accessible units. This goal, while daunting, is something I'm deeply committed to. It represents not just a number but my dedication to making a substantial impact in accessible housing. The journey with Uvaro has been about refining this goal and equipping myself with the tools and knowledge necessary to work towards it, despite the challenges and the long timeline I've set for myself​​.

Throughout my time with Uvaro, I've gained a deep understanding of not just the sales aspect but also the challenges of being a founder in today's market. It's been a comprehensive learning process, from what my team should expect of me, to understanding customer discovery on a much deeper level. I am keen to apply these insights to my goal of creating 10,000 accessible units. This experience has been more than just educational; it has been transformative, shaping my approach to my projects and reinforcing my commitment to making accessibility a reality in housing​​.

What encouraged you to join the Uvaro Pitch competition?

I remember the moment I decided to join the pitch competition at Uvaro. At first, I thought, 'That sounds fun,' and I was drawn to the competitiveness of it. It was a great opportunity to show off all the skills we learned throughout the Course. But when I realized who else was competing, I knew it was going to be tough. Yet, I thought, 'Let's do it!'

Winning the pitch competition wasn't just about the product; it was a testament to my growth in public speaking and presenting my ideas confidently. I owe a lot to my mentor, Roxy, who was amazing in guiding me through the process. She helped me understand what to say and what not to say, and how to condense my pitch into a concise, 15-minute demonstration. It was a lot of fun, but also a significant learning experience.

My public speaking journey has come a long way over the years, but I realize that in winning this Pitch Competition many things are possible with practice and perseverance. I am thankful for the opportunity I've had to grow with the help of the community supporting me.

How do you envision the future of housing and accessibility, especially in Nova Scotia?

When I look at the future of housing and accessibility, especially here in Nova Scotia, I see it as an opportunity to redefine how we think about living spaces. Our population requires environments that are easy to navigate and support independence, especially considering Nova Scotia's high rate of disability per capita.

For me, accessibility means creating spaces for everyone, not just for those who are typically thought of as having disabilities. This is the foundation of why I named my company 'Universally Designed.' It's about ensuring ease of access for all — from young children to expectant mothers, to those needing extra assistance. It's not just about adding safety bars in showers or widening doorways; it's about using technology like sensors to support independent living. This holistic approach to design is what I believe the future of housing should encompass.

My ambition is to contribute to the creation of 10,000 accessible units. This goal is not just a number; it represents a movement towards a future where all new buildings are designed with everyone in mind. I'm particularly excited about the potential of digital tools and smart designs in achieving this. These technologies can revolutionize how we approach construction and accessibility, making it more efficient, cost-effective, and inclusive. It's crucial for me that everyone in Nova Scotia, and beyond, has access to a living space that is safe, comfortable, and supportive of their needs​​​​.

What advice do you offer for aspiring entrepreneurs and those seeking a career shift?

As someone who has navigated the ups and downs of entrepreneurship and experienced various career shifts, I have a few pieces of advice for those embarking on similar paths. First and foremost, embrace the idea of pivoting and the necessity of perseverance. In my journey, not every venture was a success from the get-go. I've learned that being adaptable, willing to change direction when needed, and not giving up are crucial. This resilience is key, whether starting a new business or shifting your career path.

I also encourage valuing every experience, regardless of its immediate outcome. There was a time when I pursued an opportunity that was not meant to be long-term, but it provided me with incredible insights into what entrepreneurship involves. This experience ignited my passion for entrepreneurship and taught me the importance of dedication and the value of providing exceptional service to clients.

Finally, I believe in accepting failure as part of the process. I remember a presentation I gave that didn't go as planned. It was a tough moment, but it taught me that not every idea, even if it seems promising, will lead to success. Understanding and accepting failure is crucial for personal and professional growth. It's about learning from and using these experiences to forge a path forward. So, for anyone stepping into the world of entrepreneurship or considering a career change, remember: that adaptability, valuing experiences, and learning from failures are essential steps on the path to success!

Redefining Spaces, And Transforming Lives with Digital Nova Scotia

Jacqueline Williams' story is more than just a narrative of professional growth; it's a journey that highlights the power of vision and resilience. Her venture, 'Universally Designed,' stands as a shining example of how focused determination and a unique approach can lead to meaningful change in the world of architecture and accessibility. Her journey through Uvaro, and her ambitious goal of creating 10,000 accessible units, underscore the transformative impact that dedicated skill development can have on both individual careers and broader societal needs.

In this spirit of transformation and collaboration, we are proud to highlight our partnership with Digital Nova Scotia and the Tech Sales Plus program. This partnership is a critical component of our mission to foster growth and innovation in Canada's Atlantic Region. By combining our resources and expertise with organizations like Digital Nova Scotia, we create a community where ambitious projects like Jacqueline's can thrive and set new benchmarks in their fields.

If you're inspired by Jacqueline's achievements and aspire to bring positive change to your region, industry, or community, we invite you to connect with us. Together, with partners like Digital Nova Scotia, we can turn potential into prosperity and craft success stories that resonate across regions and industries.