As the newest staff member of the Edmonton Heritage Council, I wanted to take some time to introduce myself to the EHC community. In December 2015, I assumed the role of Program Manager and am bringing my perspective to heritage work in our community.

I am Cree and a proud member of Treaty 6. Edmonton has been my home for over 15 years and I am passionate about making our city great. I have worked for 20 years in the non-profit sector in a variety of roles with many different organizations, with the overarching goal of creating community capacity through connection. I am an active volunteer and sit on the Edmonton Public Library Board and on the National Reading Campaign’s Aboriginal Policy Initiative. Last year, I also started a group, RISE – Reconciliation in Solidarity Edmonton, to help create awareness about the lasting impacts of residential schools and connect people to the cause of reconciliation in meaningful ways. In everything I do, I am passionate about sharing stories and creating opportunities to learn from each another – at the core, I believe that is what the EHC is also about. I hope that my experience and knowledge will support the Council’s growth and strengthen the relationships we have in the community.

I value people and organizations that are working hard to make things happen in our city. The best part of my job at the EHC is being able to help fund great ideas and bring heritage to life for others. One of my first big projects since starting in this role was helping to roll out our most recent call for grant applications for Living Local and Project funding. I am excited to hear more about your ideas for animating our history and figuring out how the Edmonton Heritage Council might help you make your ideas happen. Make sure to check out our call for applications… the deadline is the end of February!

Over the coming months, I am sure I will get an opportunity to meet many of you at community events you’re hosting or the upcoming EHC Annual General Meeting. Or feel free to come by our offices to say hello or give me a call and we can chat. I look forward to all the opportunities we have to work together to continue to present Edmonton’s unique heritage.