John Brink: From War-Torn Holland to Canadian Industry Leader & Visionary Philanthropist

Meet John A. Brink, an entrepreneur, author, podcast host, and survivor, whose extraordinary journey began in Nazi-occupied Holland during World War II. As a young child, John faced starvation, trauma, and fear—yet even at five years old, he made a powerful decision: one day, he would live in Canada, the land of the soldiers who liberated his village on April 12, 1945.That decision shaped a remarkable life.💡 In this powerful conversation, John shares:✅ His harrowing childhood in wartime Europe and how it shaped his drive✅ Emigrating to Canada in 1965 with just $25.47 in his pocket✅ How he built Brink Forest Products—now a leader in value-added wood manufacturing✅ Living with lifelong PTSD and ADHD—and becoming a vocal advocate for mental health✅ His commitment to philanthropy, education, and economic development in Northern B.C.✅ Insights from his podcast, ON THE BRINK, and his four published booksNow in his 80s, John is still going strong—leading over 10 companies, hosting a popular podcast, and inspiring others with his story of resilience, innovation, and giving back. His $1 million donation to the College of New Caledonia is just one example of how he continues to invest in the future of Canada’s workforce and communities.John Brink is living proof that where you come from doesn’t define where you can go.🔗 Learn more about John’s story, podcast, and companies: https://johnabrink.com/ 🎧 Listen to ON THE BRINK Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@JohnABrinkhttps://facebook.com/johnabrinkceo https://www.instagram.com/john.a.brink📚 Read his books on survival, entrepreneurship, and leadership#JohnBrink #ONTHEBRINKPodcast #WWIISurvivor #ImmigrantSuccessStory #CanadianEntrepreneur #Resilience #ADHDAwareness #PTSDRecovery #PhilanthropyMatters #LeadershipStory #BrinkForestProducts #InspiringCanada #OrderOfBC #FromSurvivorToCEO