We had the good fortune of connecting with Matt Dunae and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Matt, how does your business help the community?
The business I run that is called Lit Evolution Presentations develops and facilitates workshops on mental health and the music industry. I have delivered workshops for the RCMP, Teachers, Nurses, Doctors, Students and many first nations organizations across Vancouver Island.

I have spoken with over 15,000 students from Kindergarten to college level on topics such as suicide prevention, suicide first aid, mental health, communication and fighting anxiety. We have definitely made a powerful impact on the communities that we have served.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What sets my music apart from others is my ability to connect with my audience. I make music to make people feel less alone and that resonates with a lot of people from all different age ranges. I started making music as a hobby but when my brother died by suicide I started taking it very seriously as he was a very big fan of mine and believed in me. It was very difficult during those initial years after his death to get motivated to make new music but his belief in me kept me going. I have learned many lessons along my musical journey but the biggest ones are keep going no matter what other people think and create your art for yourself first. I want people to know that if they listen to my music it can be very therapeutic and like a medicine for them.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I would take them to Tofino first. Some of the river spots here on the island and I am a big foodie so I would take them to Tidal tacos, Gina’s Mexican care and of course the Firehouse Grill where they actually have a signature Sirreal Sushi roll named after me. Its delicious. I would also take them to mount Washington to go skiing and to cathedral grove, home of some of the oldest trees in North America.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My son Benjamin, My counsellor Bill Wagg, My Family Life worker Zel Hopson and my teacher Mrs Peggy Squire. Also my foster parents Bill and Donna Mile.

Website: https://sirreal.ca

Instagram: https://instagram.com/sirrealmusicofficial

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SirReal

Other: Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/sirrealmusicofficial

Image Credits
Turkeymuffin Picture, Pam Dawson Photos, Dave Worden Photography

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