Brendan Carney (He/Him)

GET TO KNOW BRENDAN:

One thing people might not know about you? 

I love being able to give back to the community in Vancouver. My opportunity for this is VASS, Vancouver Adaptive Snow Sports. This experience has not only allowed me to share my love for snow sports but also to witness the joy and empowerment it brings to the participants. It's a truly rewarding experience that has enriched my life in ways I never expected.  

What is your Favorite film or book? 

My favourite book is A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry. By the time I finished reading, I didn't feel shattered, but I found myself thinking about the book for days afterward. Mistry doesn't just tell a story; he draws you in, makes you care deeply, and then leaves you grappling with its complexity and discomfort long after you turn the final page. 

What was your favourite trip? 

One trip has stood out. On my first visit to France in Grade 5, I felt an immediate connection and was inspired to learn the language. I returned to Canada and enrolled in Grade 6 French Immersion at Ecole Boundary in North Vancouver. In Grade 7, I was selected for a French-language public speaking contest and placed 2nd overall. As a result of studying French for 6 years, I am now nearly fully bilingual.  

When you're not modelling, what else are you up to? 

I find myself rock climbing. I have taken up rock climbing and bouldering recently at the Hive in North Vancouver, and it has been taking up most of my time when skiing is out of season. Since breaking my right tibia and fibula, as well as dislocating my clavicle skiing in February 2024, I struggled to find a sport where I could enjoy myself during the recovery process. Up until my crash, I was an extremely active person my entire life; I was always competing or pushing myself in a sport. After my crash, this was something I struggled to fill. However, my problem was solved after a friend asked if I wanted to climb with him at the Hive. Since being introduced to climbing, I have thought about it daily and been obsessed with it. The physical and mental challenges, the sense of accomplishment when reaching the top, and the supportive community at the Hive have all contributed to my love for this sport.