As our Caribou Program expands, we have added two new roles to support growth and initiatives.

First, we are happy to welcome Jack Olson, Indigenous Inclusion Coordinator!

“My name is Jack Olson and I live in Kelowna. My original homeland territory is the Norway House Kino Sipi Cree Nation which is in the central region of Manitoba.  I have a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Winnipeg with an Indigenous Studies major, along with an Indigenous Community Counseling Certificate from the University of Manitoba.  My work experience includes several roles within Indigenous communities as education counselor, social worker, and environmental consultant.  As I learn and familiarize myself with my role as Indigenous Inclusion Coordinator with HCTF, I’m grateful to be working closely with a dedicated group of professionals.

During the summer I like to spend weekends fishing and camping with family and friends.  Although I do not engage in the sport of hunting waterfowl as when I lived in Norway House some years ago, I respect and support the choice of those who engage in and enjoy these time-honored outdoor activities.

Ekosani, Meegwetch … All my relations!”

Secondly, we are excited to have Lisa Wielinga join our Caribou Program! Lisa moves from HCTF Grants Officer to Caribou Program Officer and will be supporting Sophia and Jack on a number of initiatives and exciting plans for the program.  Lisa holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Victoria, with a double major in Environmental Studies and Anthropology, as well as a Project Management Certificate from Mount Royal University. Her background includes experience within government, consulting, and non-profit organizations where she provided environmental outreach and project management support. Lisa is excited about this opportunity to support the conservation of caribou in British Columbia.