The People Behind Thrive
The Thrive crew is an extraordinary blend of creatives, storytellers, and academics, each with our own unique story and individualized strengths. From seasoned educators and outdoor experts to talented writers and artists, we all share one common passion: a commitment to creating and inspiring ways to thrive. Together, we share our collective wisdom and experiences to empower others to embrace their fullest potential and embark on a path of thriving fulfillment.
Terry Dubroy
Founder & CEO
Terry is a devoted family man, outdoor enthusiast, and natural leader, with a passion for transformative experiences. Having paddled over 4,500 kilometers through Canada’s wild landscapes, his adventures have shaped an innovative approach to leadership and education, blending experiential learning with real-world insight. Over more than thirty years, Terry has grown from a humble wilderness guide into an inspirational leader in experiential learning and leadership development, empowering others to challenge perceived limitations. As the founder and CEO of Thrive, he combines decades of expertise in leadership development, outdoor education, and transformative teaching to create programs that foster trust, authenticity, and lasting personal growth. Known for his engaging storytelling and authentic approach, Terry inspires business leaders, educators, and individuals alike to step out of their comfort zones and cultivate cultures of commitment and success. Thrive is the culmination of Terry’s life’s work and experiences, reflecting his mission to elevate personal and professional development and proving that the most profound insights often come from nature’s lessons.
Abbey Laferriere
Director of Communications
Abbey thrives when she is challenged and inspired to bring ideas to life – whether through organization, problem-solving, or creative execution. As Thrive’s Director of Communications, she plays a vital role in the administration and development of programs. She supports all aspects of Thrive, from coordinating events and managing logistics to overseeing creative projects that visually and strategically communicate Thrive’s core messages. With a strong background in multi-media art, including illustration, photography, film, and graphic design, Abbey is passionate about finding ways to display the core messages of Thrive from both a logical and creative perspective. Her goal is to create things that are insightful, that others can connect with and be inspired by. She excels in crafting work for clients, ensuring that it not only meets their needs but also leaves a lasting impact.
Jillian-Rae Picco
Resident Author & Personal Development Leader
Jillian-Rae is an author and inspired leader who guides individuals towards self-discovery, healing, and thriving. She holds an Honours Degree with Distinction in English Studies and has authored three books in Thrive’s Walking the High Road series: Canoeing with the Seasons, The Insightful Journey, and The Insightful Journey: Guided Journal, with more forthcoming. A certified RYT-200 Yoga Instructor, she leads wellness workshops, creating space for clients to cultivate balance in mind, body, and spirit. Jill also develops engaging content campaigns and blog posts that expand Thrive’s reach and spark meaningful reflection. Her illuminating poetry and thought-provoking non-fiction have appeared on respected platforms, reflecting her gift for connecting with readers from all walks of life. Through Jill’s work, clients are encouraged to explore their own journey, listen more deeply to their heart and soul, and step forward with confidence into a life of purpose and fulfillment.
Jared dorcas
Director of Media & Storytelling
Jared is a filmmaker, writer, and storyteller, with a passion for capturing the human experience. His creative journey began in music, where he worked internationally as a performer, songwriter, and composer before shifting into film. That diverse background gave him a unique lens on people and the world, something he now channels into compelling visual stories across both fiction and documentary. At Thrive, Jared brings his creative vision to life through media and storytelling, sharing the voices, experiences, and moments that reflect the heart of our work. He also shares his gift for captivating audiences by leading storytelling workshops and creative sessions that inspire people to connect more deeply with their own narratives. Jared is an extraordinarily talented documentary filmmaker, and he brings meaning, artistry, and heart to every project he undertakes.
Our Collaborators
Thrive is proud to work with many talented people who contribute to our programs, workshops, and content. These incredible individuals help shape and expand our impact.
James Ross
STEM Wizard & Program Developer
James Ross, a certified OCT teacher and scientific enthusiast, merges industry expertise from biological research with a background in Behavioural Neuroscience. With a supportive nature, he shares relatable anecdotes from his unconventional journey to teaching. Seamlessly integrating biology, chemistry, and physics, James fosters growth mindsets by encouraging students to embrace challenges and learn from mistakes. Passionate about helping fellow educators, he offers innovative strategies to inspire lifelong curiosity in the classroom. Through his guidance, both students and teachers embark on a journey of self-discovery, embracing the wonders of science with enthusiasm and purpose.
Tory Fisher
Land-Based, Indigenous, & Cultural Programs Lead
Holding a Master's of Education Degree from Nipissing University, Tory authored his thesis titled “Facilitating Indigenous Cultural Safety Workshops: A Self-Reflective Learning Journey”, and has made significant contributions to writing several Ontario curriculum documents. Tory is a Shkaabewis (traditional helper) for ceremonies, pipe carrier, knowledge carrier of ceremonies, men’s traditional dancer, drummer/singer, and caretaker of Nishnaabemwin (Ojibwe language) in Nipissing First Nation. Tory founded a specialized land-based learning program for senior high school students called the Shkaabewis Program. Tory is well known for his captivating storytelling and wisdom as a facilitator. His ability to bridge cultural divides and inspire positive change resonates deeply with audiences, leaving them inspired, enlightened, and eager to embark on their own journey of self-discovery and growth.