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With ancestral roots in post-colonial Punjab and Kashmir, Somia brings a strong drive to decolonize our ways of thinking, knowing, and being. Somia is a Certified Environmental Professional (EP) and a Registered Professional Planner (RPP), specializing in Impact Assessment, Community Engagement, and Conflict Transformation informed and inspired by the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), and trauma-based approaches. Her sectors of experience include community development, renewable and non-renewable natural resources, and transportation and infrastructure development. Somia’s portfolio includes: negotiations, strategic communications, project management, environmental permitting, impact assessment, impact benefit, revenue sharing, and/or resource agreements, monitoring and evaluation, socioeconomic assessments, social programming, capacity building, risk evaluation, and development and execution of trauma-informed engagement programs.
Somia’s research interests are in the areas of psychosocial barriers to reconciliation, and understanding the role of individual and group identity, Framing, Othering, and Trauma to the nature of relationships between groups.
Conor is a Senior Partner and Senior Planner specializing in land use planning and community engagement for policy, infrastructure, and physical development projects. With experience providing services in Manitoba, Ontario, and Alberta, Conor keeps a diverse professional portfolio of projects servicing municipalities, provincial organizations, Indigenous communities, private firms, and individual clients.
He has provided his expertise in strategic public and stakeholder engagement to support development permitting, community visioning and capacity-building, and collaborative options and alternatives assessments. In the area of land use planning, Conor has experience in socioeconomic research and demographic profiling, housing needs assessment, lifecycle cost analysis, land use projection and needs assessment, and renewable and non-renewable resource development.
He has supported these projects with skills in design and visual communication to produce display boards, advanced layouts for reporting, project notification, and graphics; and geographic information system (GIS) mapping to produce existing and preferred land use figures, site plans and conceptual mock-ups, and to conduct development capability studies and other spatial analysis applications.
Desirée Thériault is a Partner and Senior Landscape Designer with Narratives Inc. As a Métis designer with a Masters in Landscape Architecture, Desiree grounds her work in Indigenous social, cultural and spiritual resurgence, as well as environmental vitality.
Her experience lies in engaging communities through resilient place-making, ecological assessment, representation, and spatial justice. Throughout her thesis work, Desiree looked to uncover the role of landscape architecture in responding to gender-based violence and social recovery – working alongside MMIWG2S families to deconstruct colonial spatial practices throughout Winnipeg.
Desirée’s work with Narratives includes supporting landscape design and visioning, GIS analytics, traditional land use studies, community plans, impact assessments, graphic communication, and place-making.
Kristine is a Pacific Coast woman of deep United States and Austrian descent. She is trained as a cultural anthropologist who aims to bridge between science and spirit in meaningful ways. Her focus areas include social sustainability, decolonizing ways of knowing, and relationships between people and the land. Her dissertation research investigated the Trans Mountain pipeline in British Columbia and forms of Indigenous and settler leadership through politics and ceremony. During her studies, Kristine had the privilege of learning about plant medicine and the teachings of our rooted-in-the-earth relations from local traditional teachers.
In 2020-2021, Kristine worked as a consultant on the Reconciling Ways of Knowing project, facilitating transformational dialogues between traditional Indigenous knowledge carriers, western scientists, and political leaders. At this same time, under the Indigenous Leadership Initiative, she supported the creation of a major business case proposal, ultimately funded by the Canadian Government, to establish a national Indigenous guardians network.
As often as possible, Kristine enjoys hanging out with her dog, Kitty, digging in the garden, adventuring with her nephews, and dancing at concerts with friends.
Paul is a Registered Professional Planner that primarily focuses on equitable community development, land-use planning, and community engagement. He brings experiences from both the public and private sectors, with a portfolio that includes policy development, development plan implementation and review, zoning amendments, subdivision applications and other land-use approvals.
Paul frames his work around concepts of building community capacity and capability through inclusive engagement and planning processes. Key parts of this are including elements of the cultural, spiritual, and environmental aspects of a community. For Paul, facts and figures only tell part of the story, but it is our connections to the land and each other that tell the whole story, and that story should shape how our communities are developed.
Paul’s work with Narratives includes community development and land-use planning, impact assessment, capacity building, and providing strategic advice on territorial activity.
Meaghan is a Project Director with Narratives Inc. She has demonstrated experience in strategic planning, policy and legislative analysis, research, and writing. Meaghan has over 10 years of consulting experience in the private and non-profit sector. Meaghan’ s research interests are in academic accessibility, and the role of storytelling in conflict transformation.
Meaghan’s work with Narratives includes supporting environmental impact assessments, community engagement, analysis of legislation, research, and communications. Outside of work Meaghan enjoys running, knitting, amateur beekeeping, and spending time with her son and their two dogs.
Eden is a Project Manager and Environmental Planner specializing in impact assessment, qualitative research, and community engagement. With demonstrated skills in communications, data analysis, and technical reporting, she has supported and managed a variety of projects related to areas including land management, community planning and development, capacity-building, education and training, environmental permitting, impact assessment, and socio-cultural research. Eden is passionate about ensuring her work embodies a decolonized, trauma-informed approach and promotes goals of Indigenous sovereignty, self-determination, and reconciliation.
Eden recently completed an Honours degree in Environmental Science, specializing in Indigenous Planning and minoring in Indigenous Studies. Through her academic coursework, Eden has obtained technical knowledge in areas of natural resource management, sustainable development, environmental planning, conservation and protected areas, and Indigenous community development. Her thesis investigated the potential for impact assessment to be used as a tool for reconciliation with Indigenous peoples through holistic and Indigenous-led models.
Heather is a Project Manager and Environmental Planner at Narratives. Heather holds a Bachelor’s in Environmental Studies from the University of Manitoba, focussing her studies in environmental assessment and Indigenous studies. Heather brings experience from both the public and private sectors, specializing in impact assessment and community engagement.
Heather’s work with Narratives includes managing and supporting a range of projects in the areas of impact assessment, environmental permitting, land management, community planning and development, capacity-building, trauma-informed research and training, traditional knowledge studies, policy analysis, and education and training. She has a keen interest in the role of storytelling in Indigenous-led and Harmonized impact assessment processes, and how these approaches can redefine impact assessment in Canada. Heather’s work is grounded in the principles of decolonization to support informed decision making and Indigenous sovereignty.
In her spare time, Heather loves reading, gardening, rollerblading, and making ceramics.
Claire is a Learning and Engagement Facilitator with Narratives Inc., coming from the field of science education and public engagement. Educated at the University of Manitoba, she holds a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences with a minor in Anthropology.
Claire has over ten years of experience in communication and public engagement, developing educational programs and interpreting natural environments in national parks, museums and organizations across Manitoba. With Narratives, Claire works with engaging communities through public events, social media and innovative programs. She also assists with impact assessment and the resulting data analysis.
Outside of work, Claire volunteers for various organizations and causes, including advocating for environmental policy at the federal level. She enjoys reading, travelling and getting out in nature.
Michelle is a Planner with Narratives Inc. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Guelph where she majored in Environmental Governance. Having recently graduated from the Master of City Planning program at the University of Manitoba, Michelle brings knowledge and experience with community development, environmental policy, and qualitative research. Michelle’s work with Narratives involves supporting traditional land use studies, community plans, impact assessments, and engagement plans. Michelle is interested in a holistic approach to planning that promotes sustainability and equity.
Outside of work, Michelle loves to curl up with a good book, explore local trails, and play games with friends and family.
Bryce is a Project Manager at Narratives Inc. She holds a BA Hons in International Development from the University of Winnipeg and an MA in Gender and Development from the Institute of Development Studies and University of Sussex. Through her studies and work experience, Bryce has had the opportunity to work with communities in Canada, Colombia, England, Ethiopia, India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Ethiopia.
Bryce is interested in the ways gender, environment and development intersect to shape environmental valuation, decision-making, and governance. Her background is in qualitative research and knowledge mobilization in the non-profit sector, focusing on gender transformative approaches to development and climate change adaptation.
Outside of work, Bryce loves travelling, snuggling her dog, busting a move at dance class, and discovering new favourite foods.
Steven is a Project Manager and Environmental Planner at Narratives Inc. He has a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies from the University of Manitoba with a major in wildlife management and a minor in Geography.
Steven has a background in community led research initiatives including studies of hydroelectric development and its effects on fish and aquatic ecosystems. It was through this work that he has fostered an interest in the complimentary relationship between Traditional Knowledge and Western Science. He has demonstrated skills in community engagement, community-based monitoring, qualitative and quantitative data analysis, and technical report writing. He is committed to learning more about Harmonized Impact Assessment, and how he can better support efforts towards reconciliation through this lens.
Steven loves outdoor adventure and spends much of his free time whitewater kayaking on rivers throughout Manitoba and beyond.
Andrea is a Project Manager and Environmental Planner at Narratives Inc. Andrea holds a Bachelor’s in Environmental Studies with a Major in Natural Resource Management and a Minor in Geography. Through her academic coursework, Andrea has obtained technical knowledge in the areas of environmental policy, environmental assessment, and sustainable development.
Andrea has a background working in several diverse research positions, including private, government, and post-secondary institutions. She has demonstrated skills in conducting qualitative data analysis, community-based monitoring, technical reporting, as well as supporting stakeholder outreach and engagement.
Andrea is passionate about projects that promote land stewardship and community wellbeing. In her free time, Andrea loves gardening, travelling, and hiking with friends.
Dillon comes from the Island of Sri-Lanka but has had the opportunity to call multiple places across the globe home. His global experiences are a driving force behind his passion for helping build healthy and sustainable communities.
Dillon holds a degree in Environmental Sciences from the University of Manitoba, with a focus on sustainable development. Throughout his academic coursework, Dillon has obtained technical knowledge in environmental health, environmental law and policy, sustainability, ecosystem management, environmental assessment, and community development. Throughout his degree, Dillon has been actively involved in various volunteering initiatives to help create a more sustainable faculty, community, and city. His past experiences include implementing Ownership, Control, Access, and Possession (OCAP) principles in research & analysis surrounding Indigenous communities, proposal development, community engagement, and project management. Some of his work at Narratives includes supporting engagement sessions with communities and conducting research surrounding Indigenous communities, human rights, environmental issues, social planning & development.
Dillon is passionate about serving the communities around him, having meaningful conversations, and exchanging flavourful recipes.
Bobbie Mang’eli is a Project Manager and Environmental Planner at Narratives Inc. She was raised in Kenya and is proud of her heritage. Bobbie is passionate about addressing environmental issues from the community level. She has a BEnvSc with a minor in Sociology from University of Manitoba and is currently enrolled in the MEnv. Graduate program at the same institution. Through her exchange studies and Co-op program, she has gained valuable multicultural experience in relationship building, community-led projects, planning gatherings, mentoring and learning from youth, as well as facilitation of workshops and conferences.
In her spare time, Bobbie loves to hike, bike and craft.
Kathryn is a Senior Researcher at Narratives Inc. She is passionate about the power of stories and the importance of understanding our past. She has a MA in History from Carleton University and completed four years of the doctorate program in History at Concordia University. Her graduate research focused on oral history which led to a deep appreciation for the powerful experience of listening to someone’s life story. This period in academia also afforded the opportunity to learn more about the history of Indigenous communities in the Prairies.
Through her studies and work experience, Kathryn developed a passion for Indigenous social justice, and is committed to learning more about how she can better support efforts towards reconciliation. She volunteers her time to organizations who collaborate with Indigenous partners to work towards this goal, including the annual We Are All Treaty People Celebration, and the Education Working Group for Share the Gifts – Honour the Treaties.
In her spare time, Kathryn loves to read cheesy novels, snuggle with her cat, attempt to learn bird calls, and rock climb.
Mya Wheeler is a Senior Researcher at Narratives Inc. She recently completed a Ph.D. through the University of Manitoba in the Natural Resources Institute, which is located on Treaty 1 territory and the homeland of the Métis Nation. She is a critical feminist geographer who considers all the components, actors, and activities that continually make places. Her deep attention to places probably began as a child of European-settler Mennonite descendants who were passionate about social development work in southern Colorado and later Indonesia. Mya travelled throughout her childhood and young adult career, arrived in Manitoba for university and fell in love with Winnipeg. After immigrating to Canada, she spent her many years in academia considering the concept of place in resources management, learning, and reconciliation, with a particularly focus on Manitoban Indigenous and non-Indigenous relationships to land.
One of the underlying lessons of Mya’s PhD dissertation (on oil and gas extraction in southwestern Manitoba) is the way settler-colonization continues to condition relationships to land through resource extraction practices. However, paying attention to these place-making conditions also opens opportunities to reconsider these relationships to land and community. Recently, she has been experimenting with sharing stories about oil and gas extraction in southwestern Manitoba through a virtual museum site for the Manitoba Oil Museum and Interpretive Centre (www.manitobaoil.ca). The purpose of this project is to draw attention to the ways people lives have been entangled with oil and gas extraction in Manitoba, both the benefits and the costs.
Whenever Mya is not overthinking things, she loves to spend time with her two vibrant kids (4 and 11) and her fabulous life partner. This year the goal is a full family cross-country ski. The household also includes three tuxedo-coloured cats, so that’s a lot of very loved cats.
From the sunny shores of Trinidad and Tobago, Gabrielle brings an island life mix to Narratives Inc. Her ancestral background consists of peoples that came to the island and the first peoples of her homeland, such as Spanish, Portuguese, French Creole, East Indian and Amerindian. Her passion is using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) with her background in drafting, geography, and art to provide visual mapping solutions derived from information collected. Gabrielle is dedicated in providing clarity to her audience by representing information cartographically and providing solutions to spatial issues from analysis results. Her hope is that in presenting the information in various GIS based ways, it serves as a service platform to encourage conversation and meaningful dialog, answers questions and ultimately is used as a base for change.
Gabrielle’s interests are in cartographic and web mapping design, data administration and solutions, drafting and art.
Devon Hare is a Planner & GIS Technician at Narratives Inc. who is passionate about community building and engagement. He is most interested in the shared spaces between cultures and how those spaces shape our society. He has a BA in Geography from University of Winnipeg focusing on food geography, political economy, urban planning and environmental sustainability. Through his education he had the opportunity to research on the behalf of Brandon Food Council on community alignment and food security needs.
Through his previous career as a chef, Devon developed a fascination for the role food plays in the human experience and our relationship with the land. It is from his passion for community development and enthusiasm for people’s stories that Devon is committed to learning more about how they can better support efforts towards reconciliation and sustainable futures.
Outside of work he loves to cook, hike, paint, toss a frisbee around and lose at online chess.
Hannah is a Socio-Cultural Analyst with Narratives Inc. She is currently completing an Honours degree in Sociology, with specific interest in race relations and environmental sociology. Through her studies, Hannah has developed proficiencies in quantitative and qualitative data analysis, research, and writing.
She has a background in communications and community engagement in the non-profit sector, with hands-on experience in harm reduction, de-escalation, community renewal, and building relationships with grassroots organizations and community members.
Hannah has a great passion for community. empowerment, and bringing people joy. She loves travelling, the outdoors, and cooking for friends and family.
Nicole is a Researcher and Research Coordinator at Narratives Inc. Nicole holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree, in which she Majored in Peace and Conflict Transformation Studies. Throughout her studies, Nicole has gained experience and technical knowledge in the areas of qualitative research and analysis, conflict transformation and anti-racism theory.
Nicole’s background includes research on anti-racism in the university and harm reduction. Within these roles she has demonstrated skills in qualitative interviewing, data analysis, and reporting.
As a Metis/Michif woman with ancestral roots in the Red River and Qu’Appelle Valley’s, Nicole is excited about engaging in research that works in the interest of self-determination and sovereignty for Indigenous communities
In her spare time, Nicole enjoys gardening, beading, and spending time with family and friends.
Ryley is a Social Policy Analyst at Narratives Inc. responsible for supporting community engagements, conducting culturally appropriate, trauma-informed interviews, assisting in the development of trauma management plans, supporting trauma awareness capacity building, and interpreting and conducting research on child and family legal systems, Indigenous rights, human rights issues, and social planning.
Ryley is passionate about the impact of trauma and policy and the importance of understanding the past. Ryley holds an Advanced Bachelor of Arts from the University of Manitoba, majoring in Psychology and minoring in Sociology. She is currently pursuing her Master of Social Work at the University of North Dakota. Her graduate research areas of interest include mental health and wellbeing, intergenerational and historical trauma, criminal justice, environmental justice, and the intersectionality of oppression and discrimination.
When not at work or school, Ryley can be found going for long walks with her friends, playing volleyball, cuddling with her cats, or reading books she saw on Tiktok.
Jaydeen is a Youth Researcher for Narratives Inc. She is a recent graduate from the Bachelor of Arts program at the University College of the North (UCN) in Thompson, Manitoba. Jaydeen chose to Major in Aboriginal and Northern Studies and received a Minor in Social Sciences. She was born and raised in Thompson, but her familial roots are in Pimicikamak Cree Nation. Throughout her years in university, Jaydeen was an active member of the ininiwi kiskinwamakewin Centre Student Advisory Committee. On this committee, she actively engaged in community events and provided Indigenous-oriented workshops, activities, and supports to UCN students and their families. Jaydeen is a proud mother of 2 children, whom are her motivation for taking part in research that will benefit Indigenous peoples for future generations.
June is an Environmental Planner with Narratives Inc. June holds an Environmental Science degree from the University of Manitoba, with a focus on natural resource management.
Her interests in environmental protection span across environmental policy and law, community-based monitoring, land management, water resource management, GIS & remote sensing. Through her education and volunteer experiences, June has developed skills such as project management, event planning, correspondence and report writing.
June has a passion for all things art and culture. During her free time, she loves to read, paint, canoe and dance.
From the land of the Himalayas, Eliza brings her passion for animating stories to reality at Narratives Inc. She is an Environmental Planner at Narratives Inc. who believes in the power of stories and how they can change lives. She is a fourth-year student at the University of Manitoba focusing on Environmental Justice and Environmental Journalism. Through her coursework and previous experiences, she has obtained knowledge about impact assessment, Indigenous laws, and sustainability and has participated in community outreach. She believes that there are more ways to deal with environmental issues and incorporating traditional knowledge along with science is one of them.
Eliza is passionate about storytelling and dedicated to making sure that her work embodies the decolonized approach and gives voice to those that often go unnoticed. She has demonstrated her passion by volunteering as a blogger for different organizations. Through their studies and work experience, she has developed a passion for Indigenous social justice and environmental justice and is committed to doing her part on the road to reconciliation.
You can find her at the park or her friend’s place when she is not working. If not, she is busy snuggling some contemporary books.
Abigail McLaren is a Planner at Narratives Inc. She is interested in housing and transportation issues, and inclusive policy development. She has a BA in Regional and Urban Planning from the University of Saskatchewan and recently completed her Master of City Planning from the University of Manitoba. Her graduate research focused on newcomer settlement patterns and transit planning in three Canadian prairie cities, as well as strategies for supporting equity in transportation planning processes. Through her studies and work experience, Abigail McLaren has developed a passion for incorporating equity in planning through listening to the lived experience of folks from all walks of life. She is committed to supporting Indigenous voices and community capacity-building in all aspects of the planning process.
In her spare time, Abigail loves to spend time with friends and family, draw and paint, read books, watch movies, go for walks, and take care of her house plants.
Sarah Stavridis is a Qualitative Data Analyst at Narratives Inc. She is a second-generation Macedonian Canadian who grew up in southwestern Ontario in the traditional territory of the Three Fires Confederacy. Sarah has a Bachelor of Management & Organizational Studies, with majors in Accounting and Indigenous Studies, from Western University. She is grateful to have learned from Indigenous scholars, elders, knowledge keepers, and peers, and is dedicated to advancing reconciliation between Indigenous peoples, settlers, and the Earth. Additionally, Sarah is passionate about supporting Indigenous self-determination and the revitalization of Indigenous legal traditions.
During her studies, Sarah worked as a Research Assistant, conducting archival research on Indian Day Schools operated in Six Nations of the Grand River. She developed a database recording the contents of over 7,500 pages of documents which has been provided to the Six Nations of the Grand River community, the Survivors’ Secretariat, the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation, and Six Nations Polytechnic to support day school survivors, intergenerational survivors, community members, and academics.
In her spare time, Sarah loves going to concerts, spending time with friends and family, watching cute animal videos, and volunteering.
Charmain Schocat is a Qualitative Data Analyst at Narratives Inc. She has a B.A in Anthropology from the University of Northern British Columbia, where she gained technical knowledge in the areas of qualitative research methodology, data analysis, and archaeology. She has worked with rural northern B.C First Nations communities in archaeological and anthropological capacities and assisted with impact assessments and traditional knowledge studies.
Through her studies and work experience, Charmain has developed an interest in Indigenous social justice, and is committed to bringing a trauma-informed and decolonized mindset to her work. Her special interest in traditional ecological knowledge also serves to inform her passion for environmental activism and truth and reconciliation.
In her spare time, Charmain loves to draw and paint. She has an active interest in plant medicine and spends much of her free time going for long walks in the forest to learn the important role that plants play in healing and medicine.
Allison is a Qualitative Data Analyst at Narratives Inc. She holds a MA in History from the University of Manitoba. Her research focused on oral history as a practice, and on Afghan refugees who resettled in Winnipeg as a study. She has extensive experience in qualitative data analysis as well as managing and executing oral history projects, and will happily chat at length with anyone who feels similarly passionate about the place of stories in understanding history.
Growing up Mennonite on Treaty One territory in southern Manitoba, Allison learned a lot about caring for community but very little about the First Nations and Métis peoples on whose land she was living. With an increasing awareness of the injustices that have historically and continue to be perpetuated on this land, she hopes to use her skills and privileges to support Indigenous peoples in their efforts for truth, justice, and reclamation.
Allison fantasizes that one day, as her kids get older, she will again have free time and will fill it with reading novels and Mary Oliver’s poetry, hiking, volunteering for the Winnipeg Fringe Festival, eating good food made by other people, and having meaningful conversations over tea with friends.
Danique is a Qualitative Data Analyst at Narratives Inc. She is a proud Franco-Manitoban from Winnipeg, Manitoba. She holds a bachelor’s degree in environmental studies from the University of Manitoba, focusing on Environmental Assessment and Natural Resource Management. Danique has worked with public, private, and non-profit organizations in the environmental sector and has developed qualitative and quantitative data-gathering and analysis skills.
Through her studies and work experience, Danique has found a passion for decolonizing traditional Western scientific methods. She is a firm believer that knowledge is the greatest gift. She is committed to learning more about how she can support efforts toward reconciliation through her work, research, and personal life.
In her spare time, Danique loves to get outdoors, travel, and spend time with loved ones.
Quinn is a Qualitative Data Analyst at Narratives Inc. While obtaining her Bachelor of Arts in English from Carleton University, Quinn discovered her passion for substantive editing. She believes that both substantive editing and data analysis involve recognizing, analysing, and synthesizing each individual element of a story in order to create a narrative that is greater than the sum of its parts. A key area of interest during her studies was the power of storytelling to not only resist oppressive socio-cultural forces but also revitalize lost or diminished cultural identities. She is committed to prioritising intersectionality and compassion in her work.
In her spare time, Quinn enjoys reading speculative fiction novels and cuddling with her five rescue cats.
Nicole is a Qualitative Data Analyst with Narratives Inc. Nicole is currently a student at Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in environmental studies with a minor in political science. Perusing her degree has deepened Nicole’s passion for sustainable land use, environmental policy, and non-western methods of sustainability. Nicole’s main interests also include the intersection of these subjects to promote equity and advance environmental protection.
Outside of work Nicole enjoys going on bike rides, horseback riding or just spending time outdoors with family and friends.
With ancestral roots tied stronger than her großmamas bread kneading to Mennonite heritage, Shay uses the land stewardship and sustainable practices from her ancestry as a guide to create change. She is a Senior Designer at Narratives Inc. specializing in web design, print production, multi-media campaigns, social media design and branding. She holds a diploma in Graphic Design from Red River College and since her graduation in 2018, has accumulated design experience working both collaboratively and independently.
Shay extends the design process beyond the visual outcome by implementing teachings and lessons discovered along the way. She utilizes all aspects of the design process to advocate for intersectional communication and to bring healthy social change and environmentalism to the forefront of each conversation.
On the personal side of life, Shay enjoys hobby photography, vegetable gardening, cooking, camping and spending leisure time in the natural environment.
Fiona David is a Graphic Designer at Narratives Inc. specializing in illustration, print & advertising, and brand identity. Having been born and raised in Saudi Arabia, Fiona stays grounded in their full Filipino roots through embedding precolonial Philippine culture within their body of work.
They initially delved into the world of graphic design through diligent participation in the Skills Manitoba and Skills Canada National Competition during their secondary education. Throughout her competition work, Fiona earned three gold medals for Graphic Design Technology and a Best in Region award. They graduated from Red River College with a diploma in Graphic Design, where they were able to develop fundamental design skills and further expand their expertise during the two-year program. Fiona believes that purposeful creative work highlights humanity through storytelling, evokes emotion, and is rooted in empathy through and through.
Outside of work hours, you can find Fiona painting, sculpting tiny plants out of clay and paper, and accidentally pricking her fingers during an intense book-binding session.
Feabie is a Junior Graphic Designer at Narratives Inc. After attending Red River College Polytechnic and graduating in 2022, she earned her diploma in Graphic Design. Through her studies and career, Feabie has gained the understanding of the social responsibility as a graphic designer and is committed to integrating ethical principles and values as part of her design process. She aims to utilize her technical skills and platform as a designer to empower marginalized voices, while respecting cultural values and traditions.
From a design perspective, Feabie specializes in storytelling and building personas through visual components, conveying complex ideas through simple applications, as well as exploring various creative outlets and solutions. She has developed an eye for design and composition, enjoys collaborating with others, and looks forward to refining her creative skills as a designer at Narratives.
During her free time, you can find Feabie spending time with her favourite people, shopping second-hand, or listening to music.
Brandon is a Multimedia Designer & Engagement Support at Narratives Inc. As an Oji-Cree designer with a Diploma in Digital Media Design from Red River College, Brandon works to amplify the voices of Indigenous communities across Turtle Island by utilizing multiple design mediums while respecting cultural and spiritual traditions.
His experience and expertise lie in capturing the knowledge and stories of elders through a lens, designing educational toolkits, amplifying voices through social media, creating online brand identities for Indigenous communities and non-profits, and generating successful campaigns that inform audiences on current social issues.
Outside of work, Brandon has a passion for health, fitness, and food; he is always striving to heighten his mind, body, and palate.
Carly is the Marketing & Communications Manager with Narratives Inc. She is a University of Winnipeg graduate with a joint B.A. in Rhetoric & Communications and Women’s & Gender Studies. She is passionate about uplifting voices to share their stories in a way that contributes to positive social change and equality. With strong matriarchal figures in her family whose life’s work has been serving their community, she hopes to continue that tradition at Narratives Inc.
With a comprehensive and holistic approach to marketing and keen attention to detail, Carly enjoys working collaboratively with the team to seek new and strategic ways that support goals and marketing engagement. Carly’s background in promoting academic research, and tourism across Manitoba has helped build her foundation which she draws strategic knowledge from. She believes working in an inclusive workplace with a clear vision equates to transformative change.
Carly enjoys spending time with her little family of four. Together they picnic, shop the local farmers’ market, and spend time at Clear Lake. Her workday is accented by listening to indie singer-songwriters and drinking too much tea. Nights at home are spent snuggling Tilly, the cat.
Sam is Narratives Inc’s resident File Dragon, also known as a Document Controller. She comes to Narrative’s with a love for wrangling files, as well as developing file structures and document template’s that can make other’s lives a little easier.
Sam has Inuit roots in the Lower North Shore and is proud of her diverse ancestry. Her time working in childcare with high needs and at-risk youth, in part with life’s lived experience, has carved her into a community driven and compassionate person who is always willing to lend a hand if needed. Sam has worked in several fields to find where her passions and skills could be used in meaningful and impactful ways. Her three years prior to Narratives as an administrative assistant solidified her joy in document and file organization and management, allowing her to use her vivid imagination to come up with innovative ideas.
In her spare time, you will often find Sam with headphones on, a book in one hand and the other busy scratching her fur-baby Beans. She also enjoys wandering aimlessly appreciating this incredible floating rock in space we call home, adding entries to her iNaturalist collection.
Kirsten is an Executive Assistant with Narratives Inc. As a Metis individual with a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology she is passionate about cultures. She comes to Narratives with over 10 years of administrative experience and client service support in a variety of settings. She has demonstrated skills in organization, prioritization, confidentiality, and respectful communication. Her expertise lies in administrative support, client services, and communication. Her roles at Narratives include executive and team administrative support including logistics, client communications, and office management.
Outside of work Kirsten loves to spend time with her daughter and her husband trying out new recipes and perfecting old favorites.
Miranda is an Executive Assistant at Narratives Inc. She is passionate about sustainability and having a positive impact on the local community through her work. She has an Advanced Bachelor of Arts from the University of Manitoba, majoring in Classical History.
Miranda has experience in office management and administration, human resources, and health and safety, and is eager to put her skills to work for Narratives. Her attention to detail and organizational skills allow her to succeed in fast paced environments, handling multiple tasks and deadlines with ease. Miranda is also passionate about people, and loves to curate a respectful, safe, and inclusive work environment.
In her spare time, Miranda loves to travel, build Lego, and explore new breakfast/brunch locations in Winnipeg.
Hayley is the Logistics Planner at Narratives Inc. In 2022, she graduated from the University of Winnipeg’s PACE program with a dual diploma in Public Relations and Marketing. Prior to completing her diploma, Hayley also completed post-secondary courses in Women and Gender Studies as well as Indigenous Studies.
As a woman of mixed White, Black, and Indigenous ancestry, Hayley is passionate about decolonization, reconciliation, and equity. Her ancestry combined with her education, have positively shaped Hayley’s worldview to understand the world through a feminist lens. She leads her personal and professional life with an emphasis on social responsibility and kindness.
In her spare time, Hayley loves to spend time with her family, her partner and their cat Milli. She also enjoys painting, decorating cakes, and going camping with friends.
Amy continues to grow and develop new tools which reflects on her report outcomes. With quick problem solving skills she is able to manage a heavy workload. Amy enjoys working alongside others as she is able to exchange ideas while keeping an open mind. Amy excels at teamwork, being attentive, supportive, and prepared. She is a hardworking, dedicated, and patient individual.
Amy uses her experience multi-tasking, and utilizes her strong organizational, interpersonal and communication talents daily.
As a young Portuguese Canadian woman, Amy finds that her heritage and ancestral roots allow her to connect more easily with those around her.
She has a huge passion for learning and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Women and Gender Studies with a devotion towards feminism and intersectionality. As an outgoing and friendly individual, you can usually find her walking with her dog, Carley, or spending time with her amazing friends and family.
Bryce is a Human Resources Generalist at Narratives Inc. He is passionate about creating a positive work environment where all employees feel welcome and valued. He has a Business Administration diploma majoring in Human Resources from Red River College Polytech.
Bryce has practical HR experience working within the trades industry as well as bartending roles in restaurants. The people skills gained from previous roles help him to build solid relationships with those he works with and better understand their needs. His attention to detail and familiarity with fast paced environments allows Bryce to manage multiple tasks required in HR.
Outside of work, you can catch Bryce playing games with friends, cooking, and getting outdoors through kayaking, golf and hiking when he can.
Stacey is the first friendly face you’ll see when you walk through the doors at Narratives. With an extensive background in client support, she strives to make everyone feel welcome and heard. She has also completed post-secondary courses in community support work and Indigenous studies. Prior to joining Narratives, Stacey worked with Indigenous youth in care to support them in developing tools and skills for success, and empower their independence. Through her work experience and studies, Stacey has developed a passion for helping others and connecting with her community.
Outside of work, you’re most likely to find Stacey enjoying live music with her friends, soaking in the outdoors, working on a creative project, or curled up in front of a movie with her cat, Kitters.
Joyce Ji is a planning intern at Narratives Inc. Joyce is a Chinese born Canadian individual who is dedicated to her studies at the University of Manitoba as an up-and-coming environmental professional. She is currently in the second year of her co-op honours environmental science degree with a focus area in environmental assessment.
At the university, she is also treasurer for the Society of Earth Science and Environmental Students (SESES) where she aids in planning both academic and social events, keeping the monetary register up to date, and communicating with the council and student body. Joyce is also part of Ducks Unlimited Canada’s Youth Advisory Council where she reports findings and suggestions on youth/community engagement to leadership and aids in implementing approved recommendations. These opportunities have sparked her passion for lifelong learning, community engagement, social justice, and environmental stewardship.
During her time at Narratives Inc., Joyce strives to use the skills she’s developed to form meaningful connections with the communities she works with and aims to provide a safe space for them to tell their stories. Her role involves supporting community sessions and events including story sessions, workshops, interviews, and focus groups. She is also responsible for writing technical reports and memorandums alongside supporting any research being done.
Outside of work, Joyce loves to spend time with her family and learning to cook and bake traditional Chinese meals. On occasion, she also loves binge watching whatever Netflix show looks good at the time or playing some video games.
Bianca is a planning intern at Narratives Inc. She is currently working on her B.A. Political Studies Honours degree at the University of Manitoba. Her interests are in public policy and international law, Canadian and Indigenous politics, and critical feminist theory. Bianca is involved in many organisations at the University including serving as the Director of Services for the Faculty of Arts clubs, Vice President of the Political Studies club, and the Women’s Representative for Pre-Law.
Being from a small town in rural Manitoba, Bianca understands how important it is to invest in our local communities and uplift the people around us. Working together and discussing all the options is what she believes will bring the best solutions to the table in developing communities. Bianca is interested in governance at the provincial and local level and currently serves as the treasurer for her local constituency.
Bianca’s parents immigrated to Canada from Vietnam and Cambodia and are both survivors of War and Genocide. They encourage Bianca to continue sharing stories of the past so that more awareness is created to support survivors and the overall wellbeing of families with trauma. Celebrating each other’s cultures and differences makes for a safe community and is what Bianca believes in.
Bianca is committed to a life of learning but, when she is not doing so, she is either journaling, gardening, or is off to the lake with her dog to soak up the sun!
Ahsan Mahboob is a Planning Intern at Narratives Inc. Born and raised in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, he moved to Winnipeg in 2018 to pursue an Environmental Studies degree with a focus in Sustainable Development, at the University of Manitoba. Ahsan’s areas of specialization include environmental sustainability, stewardship, policy & law, green building, energy efficiency, and community engagement. Since moving to Canada, Ahsan became interested in sustainable development within Indigenous communities.
During his spare time, Ahsan loves spending time outdoors in nature and exploring by going on hikes, camping trips, and road trips. He also loves playing and watching sports, with soccer being his favourite and most passionate sport. Meeting and connecting with new people is also something he really enjoys doing and which happens often in his role as Social Media Manager for the Environment and Geography Students Association (EGSA) at the University of Manitoba.
From the busy streets of Dhaka to the frozen grounds of Winnipeg, Fardeen is an environment and sustainability enthusiast who is passionate about making the word a better place through environmental protection and action against climate change. He is ardent about sustainable development and finding ways to incorporate sustainability in various aspects of the people’s lives. He is a Planning Intern at Narratives Inc. who sees the world through the untold stories of people. He is a final-year student at the University of Manitoba with a focus on Sustainable Development.
Through his academic and previous experiences, Fardeen has acquired knowledge and skills about but not limited to environmental science and sustainability, human and urban geography, environmental laws and regulations, statistical analysis and quantitative research methods. He worked with the Dean of his faculty as a part of his Honours thesis where he researched about the prospect of plastic recycling and microplastics recovery in the developing countries towards achieving sustainable development. He is keen to incorporate sustainability into his work at Narratives Inc.
During his leisure time, Fardeen finds himself walking near rivers, wondering in the woods or simply starring at the sky. He also likes watching movies and dreams of waking up in a Wes Anderson world. He loves the street foods of Dhaka and homemade mango pickles as much as he enjoys Rickshaw rides on a windy day. If you get a rare sight of him around, feel free to say Hi.
Justin is a Planning intern at Narratives Inc. He is an international student from Indonesia who is currently pursuing his bachelor’s degree at the University of Manitoba. Currently in his third year of an environmental science major, geography minor, his focus is on sustainable development in city planning and transportation. Justin is also interested in learning about human geography as well as environmental inequality in order to better understand how culture and society plays a part in environmental sustainability.
Justin’s interest in the environment and city planning stems from his volunteering in natural areas and social work in Jakarta, Indonesia. In Jakarta he helped developed programs for various groups such as orphans, the elderly and low-income communities. Through these activities Justin was able to develop a better understanding of and empathy towards marginalized communities and hopes for his future work to be able to mitigate community negligence and misrepresentation.
In his spare time Justin loves to spend time with friends and go outdoors to hike (when it’s not cold). In the winter he loves to just chill inside and have some quality me time.
Michelle is a Planning Intern at Narratives Inc. She is a second-year student at the University of Manitoba pursuing a Bachelor of Environmental Studies with her focus area being Sustainable Development. Michelle is an international student from Kenya where she was born, raised and is grateful to call home. Growing up Michelle has always been passionate about social justice, and this was further fuelled by exposure to diverse environments that encouraged her to focus her passion on equitable and sustainable development.
Having grown up in a developing country and interacting with people of diverse backgrounds has widened her perspective on how marginalized communities are often left behind and pay the cost of development. This fuels her desire to make meaningful change wherever she goes. She has previously been involved in activities that have nurtured her community engagement, research and planning skills with her biggest achievement being planning and executing a 2-day student conference with over 300 participants that was aimed at retelling the misconstructed narrative of Africa and the Caribbean. At Narratives Inc, Michelle aims to further develop her professional skills and define the scope of her professional development.
In her free time, Michelle loves spending time with her friends, reading African literature or keeping herself busy with DIY projects.
Zazu brings one year of intensive training in impulse control (we’ve all been there), fetching, nap management, and hooman wellness. He hopes to apply these skills to continue to make workplaces welcoming for all hoomans (and his fellow peers from the animal kingdom). He has big ambitions to be a peace dog and change the world for better. One woof at a time.
American/Canadian Grand Champion, Obedience Trial Champion Grandgables What’s New Pussycat Herding Advanced, Rally Excellent, American Companion Dog Excellent, RN Herding Started Arena Sheep, Novice Jumpers Certificate
Kitty was born on January 13, 2012, in Ontario and flew to the West Coast at 4 months of age where she would become not only an obedience, herding, agility, and conformation star but matriarch and the root of the Longhaul Family Tree. Her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren not only share her amazing temperament but also her love for chasing water – just try watering plants or putting on a sprinkler! In March 2020 when Covid hit, Kitty had a new important task to do which involved taking care of her new best friend Kristine and now working for Narratives, where she brings lots of smiles and good medicine to the table…er, the lunch table that is.
Winston is a highly personable French Bulldog with a friendly demeanor and a great attitude. He loves to work with a team and has experience engaging with a diverse range of humans and canine colleagues. Winston has a demonstrated knowledge of psych-paw-logy through his experience providing mental health support to his humans. He is also a strong communicator with proficient language skills, being fluent in Frenchie. In his free time, Winston enjoys skateboarding and building his stick collection.
