2018 - 2019 Mentors
Troy Thomas
Program/Year:
Bachelor of Arts, Second year
About me:
Hello, my name is Troy Thomas, a Secwepemc from the Switsmalph community of Salmon Arm, British Columbia. I am in my second year of studies in the Bachelor of Arts Program here at TRU. My path to returning to studies was rather circuitous, with many trails followed only to be abandoned due to a variety of reasons whether ill health or injury. That I have returned to study, a path I had believed to be long closed to me, is a fortune I can never again take for granted. I applied to be a mentor because I wanted to be of service — whatever little I can provide — to others who may be at a crossroads in life.
Daylan Kidder
Program/Year:
Bachelor of Social Work, Third year
About me:
Taanishi! My name is Daylan Kidder, and I am Métis, being part French and part Cree. My family roots can be traced back to the Red River, with my family coming from Qu'Appelle Valley, Saskatchewan. Before moving to Kamloops seven years ago, I lived in High Level, Alberta, where I spent my childhood. I have my Human Services Diploma from TRU and I am in my third year of Bachelor of Social Work degree, with the intention of obtaining my Indigenous Studies certificate as well. When you see me around campus or at the Gathering Place, don't be afraid to say Hello! You can ask me questions, and if I don't know the answer I will find it for you! I can also help with homework, scheduling, someone to bounce ideas off or a listening ear! Maarsi!
Charmaine L. Peal
Program/Year:
Master of Education, Second year
About me:
Hi, I'm Charmaine L. Peal NaxNokgumGanaaw, a Nisga’a name, from Nisga'a from the Frog/Raven clan. I'm from the house of Luux Hoon. I'm a mother, teacher and student. I moved with my family from our community of New Aiyansh to continue my educational journey. I'm in my second year of the Master of Education program. I'm a lifelong learner and love helping and encouraging others to succeed in the dreams. I love harvesting and preparing traditional Nisga'a food. I'm excited to be part of Indigenous mentorship program this year. If you see me on campus please say hi, and if you need any help, I'll do my best to help you. I hope you enjoy your educational experience at TRU.
Lesley
About me:
Hey, I'm Lesley. I'm a geography student studying to become an elementary school teacher. I am Nlaka'pamux — originally from Boston Bar, and some of my interests include powwow dancing, travelling, photography and playing fetch with my cat. Along with being an Indigenous mentor on campus, I am also a member-at-large in the Students' Union equity committee, and a member of Kappa Beta Gamma (TRU's sorority). As a mentor at the Gathering Place, my goal is to do my best to help make university life a bit more fun, and hopefully a lot less stressful. When you see me around, feel free to come ask me anything or simply say hello!
Maria Collins
Program/Year:
Bachelor of Science in animal biology
About me:
Weyt-k, hello, my name is Maria Collins, I am a Métis student currently in my second year of studies at TRU. I am in the bachelor of sciences program, and will be going into animal biology. I am from Kamloops, and love the variety of ecosystems that can be found in the area, along with the wildlife. I love animals, and spending time at home with my rabbits and chickens. This is my second go at university, so if you’re feeling discouraged come find me, I know how it feels. I can show you the best and healthiest on-campus meals, happy places and deer tracks. I am delighted to be a mentor, I have a bubbly personality and would love to share my knowledge with others.
2017 - 2018 Mentors
Alexis Edwards
Program/Year:
Bachelor of Arts, Fourth year
About me:
Greetings, my name is Alexis Edwards, I am of St’at’imc decent and I hail from the Tskwaylaxw nation. I sing at powwows, and enjoy windy walks on the beach. I am more than efficient at the exquisite art of procrastination. I can help with English and Philosophy. I am also good at figuring things out, so if you need help with anything else, we can figure it out together.
Kristen Johnny
Program/Year:
Post Baccalaureate Entrepreneurship, Pre-Masters in Environmental Economics and Management (MEEM) Program
About me:
Hello Everyone! My name is Kristen. I am a member of the Tsilhqot’in Nation, from the largest of six Tsilhqot’in communities, Tl’etinqox (Anaham). I have babies that I am very proud of; they are the ones that drive me to complete my education goals. When I can, I volunteer for events in my community. I’m all about giving back, so if there is anything you need help with, don’t be afraid to reach out and ask me for help. I can help with almost anything; if I don’t have the answer, I will find the answer for you. I got my Bachelors of Business Administration in 2012. I worked for my community for three and a half years as an Education and Economic Development Manager. I took this summer off of my studies to help my community through the fire emergency. It was an amazing experience, with my amazing community. #TletinqoxStrong2017. I look forward to another great year of studies and meeting amazing people like you!
Mary-Jo Michell
Program/Year:
Business Management - 3rd Year
About me:
Hey everyone! I am Mary, I am from Kanaka Bar Band down past Lytton BC. I am in between 2nd and 3rd year Business Management. I have also gone and completed Culinary School Year 1&2 , and Retail meat cutting and processing. I have been around TRU on and off for 6 years. My hobbies are hockey, going to the gym, filming for YouTube, crocheting, and practicing mindfulness! If you like food, coffee, and a good chat feel free to hit me up! I can help you with organization, scheduling, and even give you some cooking tips!
Nikki Hunter- Porter
Program/Year:
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (4th Year)
About me:
Hello! My name is Nikki and I am a member of Bonaparte Indian Band just outside of Cache Creek, BC. I enjoy anything to do with outdoors, hiking, kayaking, fishing etc. I have been a student at TRU for 7 years in total and my goal is to make new or returning students more comfortable with their transition into post-secondary. I am super friendly so if you see me around feel free to say hi or ask me anything and I will do my best to assist you myself or provide some more resources. I am excited to be a part of the Mentorship program this year and look forward to meeting you!
Justin Young Thunder Sky
Program/Year:
3rd Year Directive Studies
About me:
I am Anishanabe from Bloodvein MB
I am in love with life, living on purpose, walking my talk, living loving and laughing all the way. I am a giver of inspiration, kind supportive encouragement, and so much fun. I love and believe in all people, I see the gift in me, which helps me to see the gifts in all. I am a youth facilitator and a motivational speaker I would be honored to walk with you.
Eileen Lattie
Program/Year:
Social Work 2nd year
About me:
Hey there! My name is Eileen Lattie. I was born and raised in the Northern part of B.C in a town called Hazelton. I am from the Gitxsan Nation and belong to the Eagle Clan. TRU is a great University and I feel very fortunate to be a returning student. I am working towards my Bachelor in Social Work.
I am very pleased to have been given this opportunity to be a mentor and I look forward to meeting new people. I hope that I can help any new students with any questions or concerns. If you see me on campus, don't be shy to say hello. I look forward to meeting you. Hami'yaa
Melvin James
Program/Year:
3rd year Bachelor of Computing Science
About me:
Hey, I am Melvin James. I am a 3rd year computer science student here at TRU. I am Stl'atl'imx from the Lil’wat Nation in Mount Currie, B.C. but I also have some Italian and Cree in my blood. I plan on working in the Technology industry (not quite sure where or what) and utilize my education. I love anything to do with computers from software to hardware and mobile app development to web design. I also have an interest in photography, having done some shoots this summer with some great people. There are many other interests that I can list, but you might just have to come and talk to me to find those out. I try to be super approachable!
You can ask me anything about computers and photography. Well, you can ask me about anything to be honest, and I will try to answer you in the best way that I can.
Ed Blakeborough
Program/Year:
MSc Environmental Science
About me:
Hello. My name is Ed Blakeborough. I have lived in Kamloops since I was a child but my band is Leq’á:mel First Nation (Meaning: The level place where people meet), located in Deroche, BC. Leq’á:mel is a part of Stó:lō Nation. I graduated this year with my BSc. majoring in math/econ and minoring in management. I am now in a Masters program. In my free time I enjoy fishing, hiking, camping, and golfing. I also enjoy watching all sports. Starting back at TRU in 2012 was my third attempt at university. I know many of the obstacles in our path and how I overcame them. I am hoping to make new student’s experiences in their first year at TRU as enjoyable and easy as possible and I am willing to help you in any way I can.
Lesley Campbell
Program/Year:
3rd Year Bachelor of Arts
About me:
Hey, I’m Lesley. I’m studying to become an elementary school teacher. It's a process, but it’s totally worth it. I'm originally from beautiful Boston Bar, and some of my interests include watching crime shows, travelling, photography and elephants.
As a mentor at the Gathering Place, my goal is to do my best to help make university life a bit more fun, and hopefully a lot less stressful. When you see me around, feel free to come ask me anything or simply say hello
Marcus Scherer
Program/Year:
Bachelor of Natural Resource Science
About me:
My name is Marcus Scherer. My ancestors are from all over Canada (I am Anishinaabe, Secwepemc, Dakelh, Tsilhqot'in), but I have lived in Kamloops most of my life. Other than school there are many other things that I like to keep me busy; playing guitar, crossfit, hiking, and singing (alone of course). School is my life (except for the summer time, when I am out saving the forests from fires).
Feel more than welcome to come up to me and say hi. If you have a question about anything, I can either point you in the right direction, or help you myself (my specialty is Natural Resource Sciences).
Tristen Wybou
Program/Year:
3rd Year Psychology (B.A. hons.)
About me:
Niits! My name is Tristen and I come from Kxeen, otherwise known as Prince Rupert! I’m Ts’mshian and that’s how I was raised with my family, but I also have some heritage in Ojibwe and Lakota Sioux. I’m here working on an honours degree in psychology to go into graduate studies in forensic psychiatry, and I enjoy also writing, making music, documentaries, and scary movies! I’m often known for being a bit of a walking encyclopedia, and I’m a very open book, so if you ever want to chat or need some tutoring help, hit me up! I hope that I can blend my lived and educational experience to make university the least stressful and most enriching time possible for those around me. ga̱psm 'yensm g̱a̱nga̱ba!
2016 - 2017 Mentors
Autumn Lea
Program/Year:
Bachelor of Arts/Science, 2nd Year
About me:
Hello! My name is Autumn. I am from 70 Mile House B.C, but my band is up in Lax Kw'alaams, BC. This year I am a mentor at Cplul’kw’ten, and am very excited to have been given this opportunity. I was raised on a farm, so my love of animals should not come as a surprise. I would consider myself to be an outgoing person. Another thing you should know about me is that I love to chat, so if you have a question or just want to have a conversation, please do not be afraid to approach me. I can often be found hanging out at the Gathering Place, but if I am not there to answer your question, I am certain the friendly staff can help you out!
I look forward to meeting you.
Lesley Campbell
Program/Year:
2nd Year Bachelor of Arts Student
About me:
Hey, I’m Lesley. I’m studying to become an elementary school teacher. It's a process, but it’s totally worth it. I'm originally from beautiful Boston Bar, and some of my interests include watching crime shows, travelling, photography and elephants.
As a mentor at the Gathering Place, my goal is to do my best to help make university life a bit more fun, and hopefully a lot less stressful. When you see me around, feel free to come ask me anything or simply say hello!
Marcus Scherer
Program/Year:
Bachelor of Natural Resource Science.
About me:
My name is Marcus Scherer. My ancestors are from all over Canada (I am Anishinaabe, Secwepemc, Dakelh, Tsilhqot'in), but I have lived in Kamloops most of my life. Other than school there are many other things that I like to keep me busy; playing guitar, crossfit, hiking, and singing (alone of course). School is my life (except for the summer time, when I am out saving the forests from fires).
Feel more than welcome to come up to me and say hi. If you have a question about anything, I can either point you in the right direction, or help you myself (my specialty is Natural Resource Sciences).
Marie Sandy
Program/Year:
Bachelor of Education, 1st year
About me:
Weyt-kp! Hello all! I'm Marie, and I'm from Williams Lake. In my free time I like to play soccer and knit (socks, sweaters, dish cloths!). I remember the disoriented feeling of university in my first and second year. If you have any burning questions, or just need to debrief, I am around. So please, if you see me around the house please feel free to ask me anything. Good luck!
Marina Troke
Program/Year:
Bachelor of Arts, Health Care Assistant
About me:
Hello and greetings. My name is Marina Troke and I’m a third year Bachelor of Science Nursing student. I was born in Kamloops and I am Metis/Ojibwe. My family comes from the Mishkeegogamang Reserve in Ontario. When I’m not studying my butt off you can find me watching movies, drinking too much coffee and hanging out with my two cats. I’m a writer and a poet and I hope that I can help you all out with some advice about essays and writing well. I love hanging out and drinking tea in the Gathering Place and bugging Vernie and Noah. If you see me around school, come and say hi and let’s get caffeinated together. Hope to see you soon, stay focused and be well!
Miigwech, all my relations.
Mathilda Chillihitzia
Program/Year:
Bachelor of Arts 4th yr
About me:
I’m from Upper Nicola Band. I have Studied Abroad in Australia for a semester in summer of 2012. I have been Indigenous Mentor at TRU for about 4 years in total. I love to help first year students come to the university because I know it is a hard adjustment I also promote study abroad because it was a life changing moment in my life and I hope to change someone else’s life. You see me around don’t be afraid to ask question or just talk.
Noah Nochasak
Program/Year:
Adventure Guide Graduate, Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies, 4th year
About me:
An Inuit from Nain Nunatsiavut (Newfoundland), I enjoy spending time on the land walking, paddling or hunting. I grew up in small isolated communities which helped develop my people skills. My program encourages me to be active, which suits me just fine. I enjoy meeting new people or seeing old friends.
Ryan Oliverius
Program/Year:
Bachelor of Business Administration, 4th year.
About me:
I am a member of the Okanagan Indian Band. I dance and sing at Powwows. I enjoy being active and live a healthy, sober lifestyle. I can help with English and any first or second year business courses, and if you just want to procrastinate then pull up a chair.
Sam Hanson
Program/Year:
Bachelor of Arts, 4th year History major and Political Science minor
About me:
Hey, my name is Sam and I’m one of the mentors around the Gathering Place for Winter 2017. I am available for helping all students with stuff at the Gathering Place. My goal is to contribute to the overall welcoming atmosphere at the Gathering Place and to make life easier for the staff and students that reside within. So if you see me feel free to ask for help, direction or just say hi. Regardless of what you are needing I am willing to help to the best of my ability, tutoring to just talking I am there for you. Throughout my University career I have had many different complications from my studies, and just life in general so I might be the person you are needing to sit down and chat with. If anything comes to mind, send me an email or just flag me down and I will be there for you.
Tatyana Daniels
Program/Year:
Bachelor of Science in Cellular, Molecular, Microbial Biology, 3rd year.
About me:
Hello! My name is Tatyana and I am Gitxsan/Wetsuweten from the community of Gitanmaax in northwestern BC. I am a passionate student and enjoy learning about science. If you see me around, I will most likely be studying! If you have any questions about anything, please feel free to come talk to me, I will assist you in any way that I can.
Wyonna Cahoose
Program/Year:
Bachelor of Science
About me:
Hello, my name is Wyonna and I'm part of the Mentorship Program at the Gathering Place for Winter 2017. I do my best to help students with their problems throughout the school year. My goal is to provide guidance to those in need and help the staff with their errands. I enjoy meeting new people, so make sure to stop by and say hi. And if you need help, please feel free to ask me.