AGATSU - Victory over yourself

Agatsu Adventures is rooted in a simple belief: True victory isn’t over others or circumstances, but over yourself.

My life has always been shaped by exploration—through forests, mountains, oceans, and cultures far from home. From disappearing into the woods as a child to diving beneath the ocean’s surface, adventure became the place where I felt the most like myself when comfort and certainty were stripped away.

I was deeply influenced by the explorers and photographers of National Geographic, especially Jacques Cousteau, whose images showed that adventure wasn’t just about places—it was about resilience, curiosity, and humility in the face of something greater than yourself.

At seventeen, I took my first major step into that world by learning to scuba dive. The moment I descended beneath the surface, I knew that nature would always be my teacher. That passion carried me into climbing, kayaking, photography, and eventually formal studies in the Fish, Wildlife, and Recreation program at BCIT.

My journey later led me to far-off Japan, where I immersed myself in traditional Japanese martial arts—most notably Aikido. Through the philosophy of Masakatsu Agatsu—true victory over oneself—I learned that discipline, presence, and honest self-reflection are just as vital as physical strength. Alongside martial arts, I worked as a diving instructor and also ran an outdoor guiding business, and a K9 Search and Rescue Handler, deepening my connection to both nature and people.

Today, back in Canada, recent life events have forced me to confront loss and rebuild my sense of purpose. Agatsu Adventures represents that new chapter: rebuilding, refining skills, and choosing growth—one step at a time. Through photography, film, and storytelling, I share my journey about how nature, adventure, and creative discipline can help us navigate hardship, loss, and uncertainty.

This space isn’t about escape or perfection. It’s about showing up, learning publicly, and using adventure as a tool for healing, resilience, and self-mastery and all the highs and lows of that process.

If my journey resonates with you, I hope it encourages you to step outside, face discomfort, and begin discovering your own quiet victories.