Strategic Consulting with Tmira Marchment

I recently had an opportunity to work downtown Regina for the first time in almost 7 years, and I was happy to try out the Brewed Awakening on a bright afternoon as I sat down with Tmira Marchment. She is a social worker, educator, consultant, and a community builder, we discussed the importance of handling motherhood while trying to maintain a professional balance. She also shared her journey in taking steps with courage to create a business that has been rooted in giving back.

With her grounded presence, and a cup of coffee in hand, Tmira shared not just her professional journey but the deeply human truths that guided her to choosing her career and business path.

Bernice Richard: What’s your version of unwinding? What brings you sunshine in your day, week, or month? 

Tmira Marchment: For me, it’s quiet mornings. I love getting up before everyone else, when the house is still and soft. I make tea, sit in my own space, meditate, maybe stretch or do some light yoga. Even 10 minutes like that helps me start my day grounded. As women, we’re always in motion working, parenting, managing homes so making time just for ourselves is essential. I teach social work students, and self-care is something we talk about constantly. It’s easy to tell others to do it and forget ourselves, so I try to be intentional about carving out that space, even if it’s only for a few minutes.

Bernice Richard: When your kids were younger, was it easy to find that time?

Tmira Marchment Not at all. I learned that self-care doesn’t have to be a big production. It doesn’t have to mean hours away or a luxurious spa day. Sometimes it’s two minutes of deep breathing, stepping outside for fresh air, or listening to a favourite song. Small moments count two minutes is better than none.

Bernice Richard: Did this change during your pregnancy journey?

Tmira Marchment Both my pregnancies were difficult. I was very sick and at one point on doctor-ordered bed rest. It forced me to slow down. That time reminded me that caring for yourself is non-negotiable, especially if you want to show up for your kids and for your work.

Bernice Richard: Tell me about your professional journey, how did you get into social work?

Tmira Marchment It started in high school when a friend was in a violent relationship. I didn’t know what to say or where to refer her. That helplessness pushed me toward social work. I earned my degree, worked in government and frontline agencies, and later pursued my master’s degree. My focus has always been women and children, especially those experiencing violence.

I’ve worked full-time, stayed home, done part-time, and now I teach at the university and run my own consulting company. It’s taken me 20 years to find the flexibility I need to be present for my family and my community. But no matter the setup, there’s always something you’ll miss at home or at work. The goal is to do your best.

Bernice Richard: Balancing career and motherhood is tricky. What’s been your biggest challenge?

Tmira Marchment There have been times I’ve missed important moments with my kids because of work, and times I’ve turned down opportunities for my family. There’s no perfect mix. Even now, with more flexibility, life throws curveballs my partner’s health issues mean I take on more at home. I don’t think any woman truly “figures it out.” We just do our best in each season of life.

Bernice Richard: Why did you decide to stay in Saskatchewan?

Tmira Marchment I was born here and always thought I’d leave, and I did for a while. My partner’s from BC, and we considered moving there, but financially it made more sense to stay. I also have strong family and friend networks here, and raising a young family without that support is tough. Now my kids have close friendships and love their school, so uprooting them isn’t something I’d do right now.

Bernice Richard: How did your consulting business begin?

Tmira Marchment: My business grew from my desire to give back and from finally believing in the value of my experience. I’ve worked across sectors, built strong community relationships, and gained knowledge I can share with organizations and individuals. Starting was tough balancing a full-time job, building the business, and managing my first contract was like having three full-time roles. But it’s given me the flexibility I wanted while still making an impact.

Bernice Richard: What advice would you give someone considering social work?

Tmira Marchment Start with self-reflection. Why do you want to do this work? Be aware of the harm social work has caused in the past, especially from a colonialist perspective, and commit to community-led approaches. You’ll see difficult things violence, poverty, children entering care so self-care is crucial to avoid burnout. And know your limits: what work you can do and what you can’t.

Bernice Richard: You hold both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s in social work. Did the Master’s give you the answers you were looking for?

Tmira Marchment Yes, it opened doors and deepened my understanding of systemic issues why policies are the way they are and how to create change at a higher level.

Bernice Richard: If you could change two things in the field, what would they be?

Tmira Marchment First, ensure the harms of the past are acknowledged and not repeated true reconciliation in social work. Second, help workers truly understand and practice self-care so burnout doesn’t rob the profession of good people.

Bernice Richard: Would you say burnout is common in social work?

Tmira Marchment Very. The work is emotionally heavy and hard to switch off at the end of the day. But it’s also deeply inspiring. At SOFIA House, I saw mothers who’d endured horrific experiences find the strength to rebuild for themselves and their children. That resilience keeps me going.

Bernice Richard: What do you hope your business achieves in the long run?

Tmira Marchment I want it to help build stronger communities whether that’s a small organization, a group of women, or a neighbourhood. That’s my measure of success.

Bernice Richard: And for women starting a business?

Tmira Marchment Reach out to those who’ve done it before. Accept that you won’t know everything, and that’s okay. Keep going despite imposter syndrome and trust that you have the knowledge and ability that is worth sharing.

Bernice Richard: Do you hope your kids follow in your footsteps?

Tmira Marchment I want them to follow their own path. But whatever they do, I hope they understand their privilege, see social issues clearly, and approach the world with a social justice mindset.

Bernice Richard: With your experience so far, how would you protect yourself from weariness in social work?

Tmira Marchment Some factors like funding and political priorities are beyond our control. Ideally, there’d be so much community support that social workers wouldn’t be needed long-term. The key is knowing your limits, choosing work that fits your strengths, and being willing to advocate for change.

The path to meaningful work is rarely linear, and as we know for mothers, finding our balance is never perfect. Tmira Marchment’s story is one of intentional living while making space for stillness and standing firm in the belief that communities grow stronger when we invest in them. Every business would benefit from having someone with her years of experience to guide them into realignment with proper strategic planning. Check out her Tmira Marchment and trust me you will be happy with your decision. The truth is for me, her advice still lingers take the two minutes, know your limits, and trust that you have something worth offering.