Research & Projects

Welcome to the Research & Projects section, where I share my ongoing and past work aimed at shaping a more collaborative and caring future. Each project centers on decolonial approaches and challenges traditional practices, braiding together theory and practice to create meaningful change. My work is driven by the intention to be a good ancestor, building inclusive and equitable spaces that honor diversity and uplift collaboration.

Current Projects

This section highlights ongoing research initiatives that I am actively engaged in, showcasing the intended impact and the future-focused goals driving each project.

IDEAs Research (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility in Public Recreation)

This project explores how public recreation spaces can be more inclusive and accessible to immigrant and racialized communities. By working directly with these communities and municipal recreation staff, the research aims to identify and dismantle systemic barriers to participation. The intended impact is to shape a future where public recreation promotes social connection, celebrates cultural diversity, and provides equitable access for all.

Journeying Together Course Development

This Indigenous-led course, developed in partnership with seven nations and consultations with representatives from 35 nations, aims to put Reconciliation in Action at North Island College (NIC). The course invites NIC staff and faculty to engage deeply with decolonization, building reciprocal relationships with Indigenous communities, and taking tangible steps toward addressing colonial legacies. Through reflective practices and real-life applications, participants will explore their roles in fostering systemic change and contributing to a more just and inclusive educational environment. This initiative is a key part of NIC’s commitment to reconciliation, supporting long-term transformation within the institution.

Virtual Reality Technology in Indigenous Rural Remote Communities

This research examines how virtual reality (VR) technology can be harnessed to support education, tourism, and economic development in Indigenous rural and remote communities. By developing culturally appropriate VR applications, the project aims to preserve Indigenous heritage, promote local tourism, and create new educational opportunities. The long-term goal is to empower these communities by leveraging innovative technology for sustainable growth and cultural preservation.

Musqueam Recreation Research

Focused on building a long-term, reciprocal relationship with the Musqueam Nation, this project explores how the Langara College Recreation Studies Department can better meet the Nation’s needs through a decolonized approach to recreation education. Guided by emergent strategy principles, the goal is to create a partnership grounded in trust, adaptability, and mutual learning, with a focus on supporting the evolving recreational and cultural needs of the Musqueam community.

Recreation Reimagined Course Development

Recreation Reimagined is an elective course I’ve developed from the ground up, offered through the Recreation Studies Department at Langara College in Spring 2024 and 2025. The course rethinks traditional recreation by exploring concepts like rest as resistance and pleasure activism, challenging students to see recreation as a tool for well-being, joy, and social justice.

Designed for professionals in the recreation industry, this course empowers participants to create inclusive, community-focused programs that center on care and liberation. The intended impact is to equip leaders in the field with the tools to reimagine recreation as a transformative force for social change, fostering environments of healing and connection.

Past Projects

Working Together: Becoming an Indigenous Serving Institute

As part of my Master’s in Global Leadership, my capstone project explored how to progress epistemic justice and reduce hierarchies of knowledge at North Island College. Using the Kwakwa̱ka̱ʼwakw methodology of Nanwakola (the bringing together of wise peoples to seek solutions), I organized a two-day symposium that brought together Indigenous Knowledge Keepers, scholars, and community leaders to explore how higher education can better reflect diverse epistemologies. The project produced actionable steps, including the formation of the 'Working Together' working group, and continues to shape the institution’s approach to decolonization and equity.

Collaborative Online Intercultural Learning (COIL Fellowship, Langara College)

During my time as a COIL Fellow, I supported two international online intercultural learning projects at Langara College. These projects fostered intercultural competencies by facilitating collaboration between faculty and students across international institutions. The work culminated in a publication, a presentation at an international conference, and a WIL international exchange that enabled Langara students to travel to Ireland for hands-on learning experiences. This fellowship laid the groundwork for future programs, bridging global education and real-world application while enhancing students' understanding of intercultural communication in a professional context.

Recreation Studies Department Program Review

I supported the Recreation Studies Department through its first-ever program review in 2019 and 2020. This comprehensive review process resulted in a five-year action plan that continues to guide the department's initiatives. Throughout the review, I advocated for the integration of decolonizing practices and increasing student accessibility by promoting initiatives like Collaborative Online Intercultural Learning (COIL) and Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR). These initiatives have opened pathways for students to engage in meaningful, intercultural experiences and recognize diverse learning achievements, aligning with the department’s goal of creating a more inclusive and forward-thinking educational environment.

North Island College Program Review Process

At North Island College, I played a key role in supporting the development and implementation of the institution's program review process. I contributed to the creation and maintenance of all program review documents and guides, ensuring that the process was clear, accessible, and aligned with the college’s quality improvement goals. Additionally, I provided crucial support for the Quality Assurance Process Audit (QAPA), helping to ensure that the college met all standards for continuous quality improvement. My work has contributed to a more structured and sustainable program review process, allowing NIC to enhance the quality and effectiveness of its academic programs.