Alexander Croney has set out on an incredible 22,000 km solo motorcycle ride from Toronto to Ushuaia—the southernmost tip of South America. This is not just about the thrill of adventure; it is about making a difference. Alexander has dedicated his ride to raising funds in support of YWCA Toronto’s Inspirations Studio, a program that provides arts education for women and gender diverse people who have experienced the impacts of poverty, homelessness and housing instability. At Inspirations Studio, creative and skill-building work offers community members a chance to heal, and gain self-confidence and stability while developing as artists.
Before Alexander began his ride in early December, we met with him to chat about this unique endeavour.
What inspired this journey and how did you plan your route?
After going through rehab at The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) 16 years ago, I decided I wanted to get my motorcycle licence. I heard about this route by attending a presentation by a motorcyclist who had done this particular journey from Toronto to the southernmost tip of South America and it really inspired me.
This journey has been done by many other motorcyclists, so I planned my trip based on reading about their experiences and the descriptions of their journey. I am choosing to travel along the West coast of the Americas because it is faster with fewer kilometres to traverse. I will be hugging the Pacific coast for most of my trip.
Why did you choose Inspirations Studio for this fundraiser?
I was introduced to Inspirations Studio by my partner Katy a few years ago, and we have volunteered at a number of their functions including holiday sales, the 30th anniversary and more! I feel a connection to the women and gender diverse individuals in the Inspirations Studio program as I have experienced addiction and understand the hardships some of them face. I also learned during rehab that women have far fewer options for help than men. This fundraiser is my way of helping women in need.
What is your favourite part about volunteering at Inspirations Studio?
I really enjoy meeting the women and gender diverse individuals in the program and hearing their stories, as I can relate to their struggle. I can totally understand how proud they are to be rebuilding their lives.
You shared that you have experienced mental health challenges in the past, what has helped you? How do you care for your mental health now?
The pleasure I get from riding a motorcycle has really contributed to improving my mental health challenges; when I ride, I lose all sense of time and I experience a real sense of freedom. In my opinion, it is the closest feeling to flying. I have also found support in the motorcycle community – they have really helped me.
What places/attractions are you most excited to see?
I really love the mountains and I know that I will enjoy incredible views along the way. I have recently come to really appreciate deserts, and enjoy the way sound is totally absorbed in that environment. But what I am most looking forward to is riding my motorcycle on the salt flats of Bolivia, which is said to be like riding in the clouds.
How can we keep up with your ‘inspirational ride’?
You can keep up with the journey by following @ywcatoronto and @inspiredpottery on Instagram.
Also, you can see how close I am to reaching my fundraising goal of $50,000 and donate here.
What are you most looking forward to on this journey?
2024 was a really busy year, so I am mostly looking forward to the solitude of being on the road and having some time for contemplation. I also know that this adventure will push me outside of my comfort zone. When I am at home in Toronto I have a routine – I wake up, my coffee is made exactly the way I like it, I take the same route to work and I talk to the same people. On the road, every day is different. I will get to meet other motorcyclists and interesting individuals along the way and hear their stories.
Is there anything else that you want our readers to know?
Donations go directly to YWCA Toronto's Inspirations Studio to help provide materials, support daily operations, and enable more women and gender diverse individuals to access this life-changing program.
Additionally, I want readers to know that I am raising money for a fantastic cause, and that I encourage them to continue learning about and supporting Inspirations Studio. I also hope people will follow along on social media and enjoy all of my adventures, the beautiful scenery and my experiences along they way. Lastly, I hope I inspire people to follow their dreams - because if not now, when?
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We are so grateful to Alexander for his commitment to supporting women and gender diverse individuals who are overcoming adversity and building a brighter future. Join Alexander in supporting participants at Inspirations Studio who are healing though art by donating here.