Resources

Syexwalia / Ann Whonnock  is an Elder & Knowledge Carrier from Squamish Nation & First Nations Health Authority Knowledge Keeper/Elder Advisor with strong Indigenous worldviews, ancestral knowledge and traditional teachings, widely respected and acknowledged for her work and energy commitment to her community.

Destinée Barrow is a proud Métis and is the Vancouver Island Regional Health Coordinator for Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC).

Destinée represents the health and wellness interests of the 6 Métis Chartered Communities (MCC’s) on Vancouver Island, as well as Powell River. Her role is to act as a conduit between the MCC‘s, MNBC and the Health Authority to ensure the distinct needs of Métis people are considered in the design, development and delivery of programs and services within the region.

I was born as a settler in the traditional territory of the Tsimshian people and I am now raising my family on the lands of the K’omoks Nation. As a family physician and as a citizen of this country, I am committed to doing my part to create a kinder and more equitable healthcare system. As a rural family physician, team-based care has always been a matter of survival and a source of joy.  When at play, you can find me growing food or flowers, hiking or whipping up some yummy food for my family.

Jeff Beselt is a family and emergency physician. He lives on a small farm in Campbell River and has worked in emergency in Campbell River since 2005. Jeff is driven by his passion for cultural humility and belief in culture change through compassion and inclusion. He has spent much of his time as a family physician working in partnership with First Nations communities and provides care as a member of the health and wellness teams in Kwadacha and Tsay Keh Dene.