2024-2025 Board Applications
Below are all the applications that have been submitted from the community to be a member of the next Kamloops Pride Society board. Applications are listed in order of submission.
Riann Journey Munro
Pronouns: They/Them/all
Position(s): General Director
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About Themselves: I was a former pride board member (the volunteer coordinator) and served a year as that role. I am a single mom to two children, ages 12 and 9 years old, and I am a small business owner, with plans to upgrade my schooling to hopefully be accepted into the BSW program at TRU for 2025. I have an arrange of hobbies, including hiking, photography/videography (professionally from 2007 to 2015), playing video games, traveling, camping, and the list goes on. I think I would be an added benefit to be apart of the Kamloops Pride board again now that I am back locally living in Kamloops from formally living in Williams Lake BC.
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Contributions made to the 2SLGBTQPIA+ community: I assisted the Williams Lake pride board as an active volunteer and helped organize some of their pride events under the direction of the board + president. This included planning their pride week, games afternoons/coffee socials, and helping March in the Santa parade in the winter. During my time with Kamloops Pride as the volunteer coordinator, I also assisted in event facilitation for Kamloops Pride (Rainbrews) as well as hosting a art club hang out on zoom during the pandemic lock down, which eventually was moved to art party to have in person classes- ranging from paint pours, to glassware painting. I was a volunteer for Kamloops pride in 2023 and 2024 pride week as well.
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Why they want to join the board: I find great things being apart of the board (as a formal board member) and helping the community be together as one.
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Skills: Team leadership or supervision, Interpersonal skills, Strategic planning, Previous experience on a Board of Directors, Fundraising, Event planning, Advocacy, Youth outreach, Media relations/Communications, Social media, Google Drive/Gmail experience, Ability to work both independently and as part of a team, Ability to work effectively with a wide variety of people, Understanding of Roberta's Rules of Order
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Alyssa Christianson
Pronouns: She/Her
Position(s): President
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About Themselves: I am a queer woman who has lived in Kamloops for 3 years. I'm 26 and have lived in various places around BC. I work for BC Wildfire Service as a Project Manager which keeps me busy year-round, but revs up in the summer months for wildfire response. I have just completed 2 years as the Kamloops Pride President and am excited to continue volunteering! My skills and interests include event planning, organization, and planning. Outside of work and volunteering, I am a burlesque dancer and spend lots of time with friends and community.
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Contributions made to the 2SLGBTQPIA+ community: I joined the KP Board in April 2022 as the Vice President for 7 months where I lead the Events Committee. I planned and lead events such as Rainbrews, Espresso Yourself, dances, and drag shows. In Fall 2022, I was elected as the President for a 2 year term. As President, I lead the Pride Week Planning Committee to execute Pride Weeks in 2023 and 2024 which had 8-12 events per week and included the annual Parade and Festival. I also lead the Sponsorship Committees which saw our largest donation years ever. I oversaw sponsorship recruitment, adjudication, and management. As President, I also lead a board of 6-9 volunteers, implemented new structures to try and build resiliency, fielded media inquiries, and got Kamloops Pride their first ever large grant of $216,000.
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Why they want to join the board: I have greatly enjoyed my time leading the Kamloops Pride board for the last 2 years and would like to contribute another 2 year term of volunteering. I want to continue focusing on building resilience on the board, managing volunteer fatigue, and designing new systems to make the board run smoother and easier. I have a good understanding of Kamloops Pride and why it is so important for Kamloops and the 2SLGBTQPIA+ community. I hope to see Kamloops Pride continue to grow over the next years in resources, community, Pride Week, and board structure.
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Skills: Board development, Team leadership or supervision, Interpersonal skills, Strategic planning, Previous experience on a Board of Directors, Program management, Event planning, Grant writing, Excellent written and oral communication, Media relations/communications, Social media, Google Drive/Gmail experience, Ability to work both independently and as part of a team, Ability to work effectively with a wide variety of people, Understanding of Roberta's Rules of Order, IT/Computer proficiency, Financial/Accounting, Community networking
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Remy McInnis
Pronouns: They/Them
Position(s): Vice President
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About Themselves: Writing this at 30, knowing I’ll be 31 by the AGM—yikes! I moved to Kamloops about nine years ago for university and decided to settle here after completing my program. Serving on the board this past term has been an incredible opportunity to sharpen my skills in event planning, administration, email management, and communication, both written and in person. When I’m not working or volunteering, you can often find me downtown, browsing local shops with a coffee in hand, or at home puzzling and listening to music with my cat.
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Contributions made to the 2SLGBTQPIA+ community: Over the past two years as a board member—and several months of volunteering before that—I’ve contributed to building a stronger 2SLGBTQPIA+ community. I’ve helped organize three Pride Weeks, numerous monthly events, and special initiatives like drag shows and our new Queer Club Experiences. This year, I’ve focused on fostering community connections by strengthening relationships with local organizations and businesses. These partnerships have enabled us to host more collaborative events and workshops, creating opportunities for deeper engagement and shared celebration.
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Why they want to join the board: I want to continue serving as Vice President for KPS because I feel I’m just beginning to build meaningful community connections, and I’m eager to see those relationships grow. In my next term, I want to solidify these partnerships and expand the event and workshop opportunities they bring. To ensure the sustainability of this work, I plan to create clear documentation and resources so these initiatives can thrive even after my term concludes.
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​Skills: Board development, Team leadership or supervision, Interpersonal skills, Previous experience on a Board of Directors, Fundraising, Program management, Event planning, Policy development, Excellent written and oral communication, Social media, Google Drive/Gmail experience, Ability to work both independently and as part of a team, Ability to work effectively with a wide variety of people, Understanding of Roberta's Rules of Order, Community networking
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Sabrina Stace
Pronouns: She/Her
Position(s): Treasurer
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About Themselves: My pronouns are she/her and as a 28 year old queer costume designer who moved to Kamloops four years ago from the Maritimes, I am thrilled to call Kamloops my new home-base. I have served as the Interim Treasurer for Kamloops Pride since August 2024 and am thrilled to apply for the full-time board position. What brought me to BC was the Head of Wardrobe position at Western Canada Theatre which I enthusiastically love as a career but have also have found my community of folks outside of work - hobbies and interests include many crafts (embroidery, crochet, and cross stitch to name a few), spending time with friends, singing in the Kamloops Pride Choir, attending spin classes, reading, and bopping along to Taylor Swift.
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Contributions made to the 2SLGBTQPIA+ community: As Interim Treasurer, I've helped Kamloops Pride upgrade storage facilities, had a hand in supporting the Pride Choir as they shift to a professional choir, maintain the books, and bring enthusiasm to board meetings and event volunteering. Prior to this, I volunteered for Kamloops Pride events and have continued to be an active participant of the Kamloops Pride Choir, Rainbow Reads, and Rainbrews when I can. Throughout the years and now, I take pride in making a point to support and share information regarding 2SLGBTQPIA+ current events, markets, media, and more both within the community but also beyond.
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Why they want to join the board: In terms of this specific role, I've enjoyed my time as Interim Treasurer and would love to be able to continue managing the duties in this role with even stronger presence and determination, improve and strengthen the bookkeeping systems already in place, and help Kamloops Pride grow our connections within the community and organizations to make Kamloops an even more welcoming and inclusive place to be. In broad stroke terms, I want to join the board as a way to give back to the community with strong, active, and positive change as a thank you for welcoming here four years ago and being on the Kamloops Pride board is, what I see, the best way to do that.
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​Skills: Board development, Team leadership or supervision, Interpersonal skills, Strategic planning, Previous experience on a Board of Directors, Program management, Event planning, Advocacy, Grant writing, Excellent written and oral communication, Social media, Google Drive/Gmail experience, Ability to work both independently and as part of a team, Ability to work effectively with a wide variety of people, Understanding of Roberta's Rules of Order, Financial/Accounting, Training/Education, Community networking
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Liz Hargreaves
Pronouns: She/Her
Position(s): Communications Coordinator
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About Themselves: Slightly older ;-) lesbian, much of my work experience has been journalism related, but recently worked in security. Interested in hiking, nature, animal rescue (especially dogs and parrots). Volunteered as Scout Leader, and created websites for Yukon Animal Rescue Network and the Yukon Bird Club. I was a board member of the bird club, and redesigned and published its biannual newsletter.
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Contributions made to the 2SLGBTQPIA+ community: I was on the board for the Central Island Gay and Lesbian Association (in the 90s) and covered gay issues for the papers I worked for (The Nanaimo Times/Habour City Star/Daily News). Freelanced for Xtra West (photos, stories, videos).
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Why they want to join the board: I'm new to Kamloops and would like to meet people.
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​Skills: Previous experience on a Board of Directors, Excellent written and oral communication, Media relations/communications, Social media, Google Drive/Gmail experience, Ability to work both independently and as part of a team, Ability to work effectively with a wide variety of people, Understanding of Roberta's Rules of Order, Graphic design, IT/Computer proficiency, Website building and updating
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Dustin Victor
Pronouns: He/Him
Position(s): Director of Youth Engagement
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About Themselves: My name is Dustin Victor, and I am a 44-year-old gay cisgender man living in Kamloops, BC. I work as a Project Coordinator for Major Capital Planning at Interior Health. I believe in the importance of community, representation, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights. In my free time, I enjoy cycling, working out, crafting, and camping, as well as caring for my four dogs and three cats. I am excited to apply for a position on the pride committee to help create a more inclusive environment for everyone
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Contributions made to the 2SLGBTQPIA+ community: I have made several significant contributions to the 2SLGBTQPIA+ community through my work and activism while at EllisDon. I helped create an inclusive diversity pledge that is now part of our site and employee orientation, ensuring that all new hires understand our commitment to diversity and inclusion. Additionally, I played a key role in forming an LGBTQ2S+ Employee Resource Group (ERG) called PEACE (Proud Employees for Allyship, Community, and Education), which focuses on promoting allyship and community support within the workplace. I also drafted the company’s gender affirmation and diversity policy, which is included in the employee handbook, reinforcing our organization's commitment to fostering an inclusive environment. Beyond my workplace contributions, I have organized participation in pride events across Vancouver, Fort Saskatchewan, Calgary, Edmonton, Surrey, Kamloops, and Salmon Arm, as well as the Two-Spirit Pow Wows in Red Deer and Edmonton. Furthermore, I have successfully organized numerous fundraising events to support LGBTQ2S+ initiatives and organizations. Through these efforts, I strive to create a more inclusive and supportive community for all.
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Why they want to join the board: I want to join the Kamloops Pride board because I am passionate about advocating for LGBTQ2S+ rights and fostering a sense of community and belonging in our region. Having been involved in various LGBTQ+ initiatives and events, I understand the importance of representation and support for all individuals, particularly those who may feel marginalized. Joining the board would allow me to contribute my skills in project coordination and community engagement to help further the mission of Kamloops Pride. I believe in creating safe and inclusive spaces where everyone can express their identities freely. I am eager to collaborate with others who share this vision and work towards meaningful initiatives that celebrate diversity, promote education, and support our local LGBTQ2S+ community. By being part of the board, I hope to help amplify voices within our community and ensure that Kamloops Pride continues to be a vibrant and welcoming space for all.
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​Skills: Board development, Team leadership or supervision, Interpersonal skills, Strategic planning, Fundraising, Program management, Event planning, Policy development, Advocacy, Excellent written and oral communication, Youth outreach, Ability to work both independently and as part of a team, Ability to work effectively with a wide variety of people, Training/Education, Community networking
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Fei Makortoff
Pronouns: They/Them/Theirs
Position(s): General Director
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About Themselves: I'm a 26 year old, have volunteered at the SPCA and through organizations such as developing world connections. I enjoy making a difference in my community and helping others in any way I can.
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Contributions made to the 2SLGBTQPIA+ community: I am a non-binary person who shows up to every pride and support the local events put on by pride and other people.
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Why they want to join the board: I want to help make the pride events as special as I can.
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​Skills: Interpersonal skills, Strategic planning, Fundraising, Advocacy, Google Drive/Gmail experience, Ability to work both independently and as part of a team, Ability to work effectively with a wide variety of people
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Fabricio Aguilar Lomeli
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Position(s): Volunteer Coordinator
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About Themselves: Hello, my name is Fabricio Aguilar Lomelí. I am 48 years old, Mexican, and a recent newcomer to Canada. I am very excited about the opportunity to apply for the Volunteer Coordinator position with the Kamloops Pride Society Board. I hold a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, and I am passionate about swimming, architecture, and history. These interests, combined with my organizational experience, have shaped my ability to connect with people and build collaborative environments. I have more than 10 years of experience as a Wedding and Event Planner and in my country together with my brother we had a clothing factory for 18 years. These experiences have allowed me to develop skills in event organization, team coordination, and creating safe spaces for diversity—qualities I am eager to bring to Kamloops Pride. As a newcomer to Canada, I am full of enthusiasm to integrate into the community, make connections, and meet new people. I believe my multicultural perspective and long-standing commitment to the LGBTQ+ community can add value to this organization and help advance its mission of inclusion and celebration. Thank you for considering my application! I look forward to the possibility of working together to strengthen our community and continue building meaningful spaces for everyone. 🌈
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Contributions made to the 2SLGBTQPIA+ community: Throughout my life, I have been deeply committed to inclusion and LGBTQ+ rights. In my hometown of Guadalajara, I was a founding member of AXXIS, the first LGBTQ+ group at a private university. I am also a founding member of the Colectivo LGBT Zapotlanejo, where we organized the first LGBTQ+ Pride March in the region, achieving significant visibility for our community.
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Why they want to join the board: I want to be part of this team because it is very important to create and strengthen a 2SLGBTQPIA+ Community where everyone feels accepted and loved. I don't want to sit around waiting for things to be accomplished, I know there is work to do and together it will be easier plus the process will be a fabulous way to make new friends
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​Skills: Team leadership or supervision, Interpersonal skills, Strategic planning, Event planning, Staffing/Human resources, Ability to work both independently and as part of a team, Understanding of Roberta's Rules of Order, Financial/Accounting, Community networking
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Teresa Donck-Matlock
Pronouns: She/Her
Position(s): General Director
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About Themselves: Teresa Donck-Matlock is a white queer/lesbian cultural practitioner currently residing on the unceded lands of the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc within Secwepemcúl’ecw. She holds a BA majoring in Art and Performance Studies, and minoring in Indigenous Studies from Simon Fraser University. Having grown up in rural BC, she knows the importance and impact of creating spaces for queer folks.
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Contributions made to the 2SLGBTQPIA+ community: Led a multi-session workshop exploring the concept of Queer Time with queer creatives in Kamloops.
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Why they want to join the board: Helping! I appreciate what Kamloops Pride does so much.
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​Skills: Interpersonal skills, Strategic planning, Program management, Event planning, Grant writing, Excellent written and oral communication, Google Drive/Gmail experience, Ability to work both independently and as part of a team, Ability to work effectively with a wide variety of people, Website building and updating, Community networking
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Neevesha Panjawani
Pronouns: She/Her
Position(s): Administrative Assistant (Secretary)
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About Themselves: I am 26 years old. I am an administrative assistant for the Tk'emlups te secewepemc. I have been in Kamloops for 8 years now and I call it home. I went to TRU and graduated in 2022. I am very community focused, connected to many different organizations and I like spending my time volunteering and serving my community. I like to read books, go on walks, watch TV and hangout/hold gratitude circles with my friends in my free time.
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Contributions made to the 2SLGBTQPIA+ community: In my last 8 years, I have made contributions in many levels. I have showed up as part of the 2SLGBTQPIA+ community for fun events and for rallies. I have volunteered for Kamloops Pride in 2024. I have been a strong ally for Trans folxs by educating and spreading awareness. I take pride in showing up as my authentic self and creating safe space for other to be themselves.
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Why they want to join the board: This would be a great opportunity to get involved and give back to a community/organization that sees me and celebrates me for who I am. It was a hard journey coming to terms with who I am and I am still learning and growing but I know being queer is a part that is true to who I am and I want to nurture that part. I want to make a difference and do fun work to help our community flourish. Celebrate and support the community of fellow queer peers and queer elders. I recognize that all of my work so far has been on the ground level so far and I want to get involved on a higher level and this would be a great opportunity.
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​Skills: Interpersonal skills, Event planning, Staffing/Human resources, Advocacy, Excellent written and oral communication, Youth outreach, Google Drive/Gmail experience, Ability to work both independently and as part of a team, Ability to work effectively with a wide variety of people, IT/Computer proficiency, Community networking
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Eliana Baboiu
Pronouns: She/Her
Position(s): Director of Resources
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About Themselves: I have been involved with pride since I was a student at TRU. I was the president of the TRUSU Pride Club from 2018 until I graduated in 2023. In this position, I advocated for a pride centre on campus, and I hosted a series of events called Queer Connections for all 2SLGBTQ+ students. During my time as a TRU student, I was the LGBTQ+ representative on the TRUSU Board of Directors, and I represented the interests of queer students on campus. In the past year, I was the Director of Resources on the Kamloops Pride Board. In this position, I worked with different TRU students in their field practice placements, and I helped connect people to different 2SLGBTQ+ resources. I hope to continue on in this position in the next year.
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Contributions made to the 2SLGBTQPIA+ community: During my time as the President of the TRUSU Pride Club, I began advocating and petitioning for a Pride Centre on campus. I continue to support the Pride Club in getting a permanent safe space on campus. As the LGBTQ+ representative, I advocated for the interests of queer students on campus and I provided anti-oppression training to different organizations. As the Director of Resources, I worked with nursing students to create a SOGI guide for parents, and I provided education for TRU law students in working with the 2SLGBTQPIA+ community as they begin to prepare for the name and gender change clinics. Outside of Kamloops Pride, I worked with other people in the 2SLGBTQPIA+ community to organize protests for queer and transgender rights.
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Why they want to join the board: I want to continue with my position on the Kamloops Pride Board because it would give me the opportunity to build on the skills I learned last year and to continue to improve things for the 2SLGBTQPIA+ community in Kamloops.
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​Skills: Board development, Team leadership or supervision, Interpersonal skills, Previous experience on a Board of Directors, Event planning, Advocacy, Excellent written and oral communication, Media relations/communications, Social media, Google Drive/Gmail experience, Ability to work both independently and as part of a team, Ability to work effectively with a wide variety of people, Understanding of Roberta's Rules of Order, Training/Education, Community networking
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