Trying something new can change everything. For Kim and Linda, one improv class became the start of a creative community that now connects people across cities and online.
Today they are the founders of My Creative Break, a platform that encourages people to explore creativity, meet new people, and step outside their comfort zones.
However, the idea started in a much simpler way.
An Instagram Page That Sparked a Community
My Creative Break first began as an Instagram page. The founders wanted to motivate people to try new activities and reconnect with their passions.
During the pandemic, something unexpected happened. Followers began sending messages. Many people said they enjoyed the posts and asked if there was a way to participate.
As a result, Kim and Linda decided to host small online meetups. These virtual gatherings allowed people to connect, share ideas, and try creative exercises together.
Later, when restrictions lifted, the community asked for something more. They wanted to meet in person.
That moment marked the beginning of the My Creative Break events that exist today.
A Friendship That Started With Improv
Kim and Linda first met in an improv class. At the time, both simply wanted to explore new ways of expressing creativity.
Improv quickly became an important influence in their lives.
“The skills we learned in improv gave us the tools to say yes to everything else,” they explain.
Because of that mindset, both founders took creative risks in their personal lives.
Linda spent a year living in Paris. During that time, she explored writing and even produced a short film.
Meanwhile, Kim taught English in Spain. She later travelled solo across Europe, Africa, and Asia.
These experiences shaped the philosophy behind My Creative Break. Creativity grows when people give themselves permission to try something new.
Designing Experiences That Build Confidence
Today, My Creative Break events are carefully designed to help people feel comfortable and confident.
The founders see each event as a full experience rather than a simple gathering.
First, participants join light icebreakers that help everyone relax. Next, guided group activities create shared moments. Finally, speed friending and networking allow attendees to connect easily.
Importantly, the events are designed to be introvert-friendly. No one is left alone or unsure about how to join the conversation.
Because of this structure, many participants leave feeling energized and more confident.
As the founders often hear from attendees:
“That was easier and more fun than I expected.”
Events Across Cities and Online
My Creative Break now hosts several types of events.
They organize team-building workshops for companies and communities. They also host networking gatherings, women’s events, and social experiences for the public.
Most events take place in Montreal. However, Toronto events are organized every two months.
In addition, online experiences allow people from anywhere in the world to participate.
As a result, the community continues to grow beyond geographic boundaries.
You can explore upcoming events on the My Creative Break website.
Turning Stories Into a Book
Recently, the founders published a book titled You Think You Know What Creativity Means? Think Again!
The book shares stories from their journey as well as exercises designed to help readers unlock creativity and move past limiting beliefs.
Many of these ideas come directly from the activities they host at their events and workshops.
Because they saw how these stories helped people start their creative journeys, they wanted to share those lessons with a wider audience.
Growing Alongside the Community
Building My Creative Break has also shaped the founders themselves.
Three years ago, Kim and Linda never imagined the community would grow this far.
However, they have learned that growth often begins before you feel ready.
“We’ve learned to say yes to opportunities and trust the process,” they explain.
Listening to their community has helped guide the direction of the platform.
At the same time, the experience strengthened their leadership skills and confidence as founders.
Advice for Readers
Kim and Linda believe creativity is something everyone can access.
“You can do anything you set your mind to,” they say.
However, they also remind people that creativity grows faster in supportive environments.
Communities like My Creative Break exist to offer encouragement, inspiration, and connection.
For many people, the hardest step is simply starting.
Once they do, new possibilities begin to open.
At HerSide, we regularly highlight women founders and community builders who are creating meaningful impact across the country.
HerSide Magazine is led by a collective of women writers, creatives, and storytellers who believe in honest conversations, bold perspectives, and narratives shaped through HerLens