My name is Crystal Lee and I’m many things.
- Expert laugher (Certified Laughter Yoga Leader)
- Human potential igniter (Certified Professional Coach)
- Systems-thinking community health professional (Master of Public Health)
- Interdisciplinary pattern spotter (Bachelor of Science majoring in Cell Biology & Genetics, minoring in Asian Studies)
For credibility, I’ll wow you with logos.
I am also these things:
- Local explorer
- Innovation enthusiast
- Community connector
- Deep listener
- Animal lover
- Backyard gardener
- Friend
- Daughter
- Sister
- Auntie
- Partner
This is my story.
I grew up in a Chinese Canadian home in a quiet suburb of Vancouver, Canada. As the youngest of four kids, I had always wanted to be different. I excelled in school but had no desire to be a doctor, lawyer, pharmacist, or accountant. Influenced by my parents’ chronic illnesses and stories of social and environmental injustice, I wanted to do something that would make a difference.
But what? And how?
I began years of exploration, working in non-profit, health care, government, research, education, and business. I developed expertise in cross-sectoral collaboration, community building, and social innovation in the areas of homelessness, mental health, substance use, cancer, and youth empowerment. Being so close to the action burned me out at various points.
Coaching, laughter yoga, and supportive communities kept me going. That is why I share these things through Beyond Maybe.
When I quit my full-time job with health benefits to start Beyond Maybe in 2013, my mom worried about my retirement funds. Now she’s pretty proud of how happy I am. We talk more and our relationship has never been better.
And since you’re here, you might also want to read my blog to follow my unfolding story.