“Born and raised in the Eastern most part of Nova Scotia, on Unama’ki (Cape Breton Island), I am no stranger to the mysteries of the ocean, small fishing villages, and stores being closed on the weekends (can you imagine?). What I love most about where I grew up is the strong Celtic and Mi’kmaq cultures that gave me the opportunity to learn many morals and values that guide me both in my personal life and in my work within the community. What I remember being most important is the art, the power of music, writing, storytelling, and gathering as a family multiple times throughout the year. The dinner table was always a sacred space where family and friends would gather after hours creating a culinary masterpiece together. I learned from a young age that while navigating the waves of life can be done alone, it is much better when you have a whole support system as your beacon of light through difficult times.

For the past 11 years, I have made Treaty 4 Territory my home. There is something to be said for the vastness of the rolling fields and the hidden gems around here. Estevan reminds me a lot of home with the neighbors and friends you make along the way quickly becoming family. Over the last few years of my clinical social work practice in the community, I have had the opportunity to work with the elderly, children and youth, and adults with diverse mental health needs. These experiences have not only familiarized me with Estevan’s ongoing adversities, but also taught me how much love, generosity, and strength lives here.  

When I am not in the office, you will often find me spending time with my family or friends, cuddled up with several blankets reading, cooking, or writing. Those that know me personally also know that I should have added here that you can find me tending to my (several) plants or gardening.“