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Nicole Johnny is the Operations Manager for the K'en T'em, she is from Merritt and her husband and five children are part of Lytton First Nation. Nicole brings administrative experience in Office Management, Human Resources, and Accounting. She assists in the development and implementation of organization policies and procedures; supports and oversees the administration of HR policies; programs and practices within the organization; receivables, monthly billing, payroll and quarterly financial reporting.
Nicole's dedication to community development and engagement helps create positive change and impact within the eight CNA communities and related organizations. She especially enjoys engaging in high level team collaboration, demonstrating task reliability, communicating constructively and motivating and supporting team direction. Her goal is to provide an innovative approach in engaging and expanding overall program development and direction. NicoIe cherishes the nłeʔképmx territory, and strives to create a strong and successful environment for her children and their children’s children.
All I wanted to be when I grew up was a cashier at Overwaitea. I remember going through the till with my parents and feeling so envious of the lady looking at each price sticker (as we weren’t at the barcode stage yet) and getting to enter those numbers into the keypad. Oh, how I wanted to be the one to enter number after number into the computer. Fast forward a few years. I got my first bookkeeping job in October of 2002 for a small logging company at a time when I still didn’t know what I wanted to do when I grew up. I got to look over papers, receipts and statements and enter numbers into the computer, and then organize everything within reach. I was in love! Now I am creeping up on 22 years of experience and knowledge. I have and am so proud of my two amazing, grownup children. After many hours studying and sharing my knowledge, I now find myself as the Finance Assistant for K’en T’em. My job doesn’t feel like work because I love what I do. I get to go to work every day and be around a group of amazing human beings. I think of my “job” as a wonderful hobby that pays well.
Born and raised in Merritt, Zach is passionate about his community; with nearly a decade of experience in the public sphere, it’s his goal to continue working for the betterment of the town that raised him. Having cut his teeth organizing at the Merritt Chamber of Commerce and Community Futures Nicola Valley, and several extracurricular clubs at the Université Laval, it’s Zach’s hope that K’en T’em continues to provide its wholehearted support to our participating communities and that he can broaden the horizons of those communities, his hometown as well as his own.
Outside of work hours you’ll find him hiking and camping in the backwoods of our beautiful Nicola Valley & sitting on- or assisting- the Boards of Directors of any number of the Non-Profit Organizations that form Merritt’s backbone.
If you need anything from a tech to fix that stubborn email issue, someone to spitball policy, a spare set of hands for your oil change or anything you’ve got the patience to teach, your time’s never wasted checking in with Zach.
Kim Leclairclose KIM LECLAIR Printing & Marketing Specialist Bio coming soon! Photo coming soon!
Bio coming soon!
Marius Auerclose MARIUS AUER Communications Lead Marius Auer has spent most of his life in nłeʔképmx territory, originally moving with his family from Germany in 2008. Marius deeply values his family, his connections to the community, and the opportunity to share the positive and vital work being undertaken by K'en T'em to strengthen nłeʔképmx rights, title, values, and interests. Marius, his wife Madison and daughter Evelyn live in Merritt and enjoy spending time outdoors together by hiking, swimming, and enjoying everything this beautiful region has to offer. Marius is a believer of the idea that collaboration is the key to success, and his door is always open.
Marius Auer has spent most of his life in nłeʔképmx territory, originally moving with his family from Germany in 2008. Marius deeply values his family, his connections to the community, and the opportunity to share the positive and vital work being undertaken by K'en T'em to strengthen nłeʔképmx rights, title, values, and interests.
Marius, his wife Madison and daughter Evelyn live in Merritt and enjoy spending time outdoors together by hiking, swimming, and enjoying everything this beautiful region has to offer.
Marius is a believer of the idea that collaboration is the key to success, and his door is always open.
Jodie Murrayclose JODIE MURRAY Human Resources Generalist Bio coming soon! Photo coming soon!
Riley Drader is originally from Abbotsford, British Columbia, and moved to Merritt in 2021 with his family. Riley is starting out his career in Business Development. He is eager to learn more about the nłeʔképmx culture. Riley has always been interested in the diversity of people and cultures, and he believes that his role in Business Development will allow them to promote inclusivity and support the growth and development of individuals within the workplace. Outside of work, Riley enjoys horseback riding, leatherworking and exploring the beautiful landscape he is fortunate enough to reside in.
During this time Joe has honed his understanding and skillset while simultaneously learning more about the valley he calls home and the people he shares it with. Currently a Director of the Nicola Valley Food Bank and Nicola Valley Transit Society, he has held directorships and volunteer positions with several local societies and organizations.
When not working, Joe enjoys hiking and backpacking, cooking, reading and working on his collection of vinyl records.
Keaton Allanclose Keaton Allan Environmental Services Manager Keaton was born and raised in Kamloops, BC, where he completed his Bachelor of Natural Resource Science from Thompson Rivers University in 2020. He started with the Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly (CNA) shortly after graduation, in January 2021, as a Technical Coordinator. In that role he reviewed technical reports, management plans and other regulatory documents to ensure they addressed the concerns of the leaders and community. This role also gave him the opportunity to start his Biologist-in-Training (BIT). In 2022 Keaton transitioned to the K’en T’em team, which is the business arm of the CNA. He started as a Senior Environmental Technician, added the role of Project Lead, and has since transitioned to the Environmental Services Manager. In this role, Keaton manages the Cultural Heritage and Environmental Staff, and oversees various environmental and cultural heritage programs across the territory. His expertise spans a wide range of disciplines including fish and aquatic resources, wildlife, surface and groundwater monitoring, and reclamation research. He also actively pursues new opportunities for K’en T’em, to continue building the capacity of our business. Keaton is passionate about using the opportunities his role gives him to protect the environment for our future generations, and to provide economic growth for the communities of our Participating Bands. Nick Dobrovolnyclose NICk Dobrovolny Business Development Officer Nick was born in New Westminster BC, but moved to Kamloops at a young age where he still calls home. He went to Langara School of Management in Vancouver where he graduated in 2020 with a diploma in Business Management. Nick has years of sales and business admin experience in various industries with a proven track record. In Nick’s time at K’en T’em he has seen significant growth and development in all aspects of the business. In his free time he loves to be active with hockey, running, hiking. He is eager to learn more about the eight participating bands, and looks forward to seeing the continued growth and development of K'en T'em. Atrayu Johnnyclose Atrayu JOHNNY Project Manager Atrayu Johnny is part of the Lytton Indian Band. Atrayu was born in Kamloops but raised in Merritt. He grew up playing hockey and doing other outdoor activities. He enjoys spending time with his family and exploring new outdoor adventures with his dogs. Atrayu Joined the Citxw Nlaka'pamux Assembly in 2018 as a program coordinator. He then shifted to a Jr Environmental Technician position for K'en Tem in the year 2020. He is now the Project Manager for K'en T'em's Envirnomental Technician 2024 team that takes part in the Surface, MDMER and Groundwater monitoring programs at Highland Valley Copper. He is proud to be a member of the Nlaka'pamux Nation, and proud to serve the communities by taking part in monitoring something as precious as water. Kay-lee Stirlingclose kay-lee Stirling Site Supervisor Kay-lee was born in Kamloops and raised in Merritt. She is a member of the Siska Indian Band. Kay-lee has always loved the outdoors. She spent a lot of time camping, fishing, hunting, or even just driving around on the backroads as a child with her family. Kay-lee completed her Environmental Resources Technology diploma in April 2020. She worked with BCTS for two years, then moved on and began working with K’en T’em in March 2022 as an Environmental Technician. Kay-lee's role as Site Supervisor is collecting water samples and data for the Surface Water and Groundwater monitoring program at HVC. She also leads data entry to maintain the surface and groundwater database. Jon Dobrovolnyclose Jon dobrovolny SR. Environmental Technician Jon Dobrovolny was raised in Kamloops. He spent a season as a Cultural Heritage Technician where he demonstrated hard work and appreciation for the Nlaka'pamux Territory. After the Cultural Heritage season, Jon was hired as an Environmental Technician for K’en T’em's HVC Water Team. He has always been passionate about being in the outdoors and enjoying nature and wildlife. From a young age he has been taught to respect and appreciate the beauty around him. Some of his hobbies include hunting, fishing, hiking, and golfing. He lives in Kamloops with his wife Brooklynn, and their newborn son Archie. As a new father Jon looks forward to instilling the values he was taught growing up onto Archie. Hunter Hamptonclose hunter hampton SR. Environmental Technician I was born and raised in Kamloops BC, and am third youngest of four sons. All my life I’ve had a passion for hiking, camping and spending time in the outdoors, appreciating wildlife and the amazing nature within Secwepemcúl’ecw and the traditional territory of the Syilx Nation. I pursued this passion in my adult life and got my Bachelor’s degree in Natural Resource Science at Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops. In previous summers, I have worked for environmental consulting companies doing vegetation management, mostly of invasive plants, as well as hydro seeding projects to prevent erosion. With K’en T’em, I am an Environmental Technician who loves being out in the field, as well as working with the data and writing reports in the office. Over my first year I’ve worked on a range of different projects, including surface water and groundwater monitoring, reclamation/biodiversity monitoring, a few wildlife oriented projects, along with Annual Reports and Technical Memos. I am excited and motivated to have a career in environmental work and natural resources. Kami Frenchclose kami french JR. Environmental Technician Kami French grew up in Princeton, BC on a hobby farm, where she developed her love for animals and the outdoors. She started riding horses at the age of 5, which opened up a lot of doors to go outside and experience the mountains and wildlife. Kami graduated from Princeton Secondary in 2019, working various outdoor jobs before starting with K'en T'em in January 2023. In her free time, Kami enjoys gardening, spending quality time with family, and going for rides with her horses and dogs. Kami is very excited to be in her new position, learning about and playing a role in ensuring the health and safety of our communities and wildlife. Danny McNeil-Willmott close danny Mcneil-willmott Project Manager Danny is a member of the Red River Métis Nation, their family names are Carriére, Beauchemin, Ducharme, Nault and Lagimodiére. Danny completed their Bachelor of Science, double majoring in Biology & Psychology, at Cape Breton University in 2016. They then went on to complete their MA in Sociology at Simon Fraser University. Their master’s work focused on climate change’s impacts on 2SLGBTQIA+ communities on Vancouver’s downtown east side, as well as alternate communication methods for people with neurodivergent disabilities. Post graduation Danny gained experience in several different industries from non-profit work educating and advocating for 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, to working in the horticulture and agriculture industry. They realized their passion lay in combining their advocacy work with their deep love and connection to nature that had been nurtured by years of hands in the dirt. This passion led them to K'en T'em where they currently work as a project manager & in the field technician on a variety of environmental initiatives. Danny’s expertise spans across many disciplines with an emphasis on social advocacy, effective plant growth and management, reclamation via native plant species, wildlife monitoring with an emphasis in ornithological projects, and Indigenous cultural heritage identification and preservation Jenna McKennaclose jenna MCKENNA JR. Environmental Technician Jenna McKenna is an Environmental Technician with K’en T’em, having graduated from Thompson Rivers University with her bachelor’s degree in Natural Resource Sciences in May of 2023. She currently holds her BIT and AAg destinations working towards being a Registered Professional Biologist and Professional Agrologist. Prior to joining K’en T’em, she gained experience primarily working as a summer student within indigenous organizations, attaining valuable experience in the field. This includes being a Resource Specialist with a focus on wildlife mitigation and monitoring. As a hobby in her spare time, she does nature photography, always looking for an opportunity to build on the skill. Ali Gallantclose ali gallant Jr. Environmental Technician Ali Gallant was raised in Sooke, 45 minutes outside of Victoria. Growing up she was constantly outdoors, whether it was hiking, camping, swimming, walks on a beach, or enjoying late night fires. She has always been passionate about the environment, having participated in invasives species events while growing up, she joined the environment club in high school and volunteered with the Invasive Species Council of British Columbia throughout her time at Camosun College. She graduated in May 2023 with a diploma in Environmental Technology from Camosun College in Victoria, BC. She spent last summer in Port Renfrew, the traditional territories of Pacheedaht Nation, where she worked for the Department of Fisheries and Oceans as creel surveyor. She is elated to gain some more hands-on field experience, and to expand her skill set and knowledge in the environmental field. As a member of the Ashcroft Indian band, she is excited at the opportunity to be able to connect with her culture, heritage, and her extended family. When not at work, you can find Ali exploring the Nlaka’pamux area, visiting every cute coffee shop she can find, and spending time with her family.
Keaton was born and raised in Kamloops, BC, where he completed his Bachelor of Natural Resource Science from Thompson Rivers University in 2020. He started with the Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly (CNA) shortly after graduation, in January 2021, as a Technical Coordinator. In that role he reviewed technical reports, management plans and other regulatory documents to ensure they addressed the concerns of the leaders and community. This role also gave him the opportunity to start his Biologist-in-Training (BIT).
In 2022 Keaton transitioned to the K’en T’em team, which is the business arm of the CNA. He started as a Senior Environmental Technician, added the role of Project Lead, and has since transitioned to the Environmental Services Manager. In this role, Keaton manages the Cultural Heritage and Environmental Staff, and oversees various environmental and cultural heritage programs across the territory. His expertise spans a wide range of disciplines including fish and aquatic resources, wildlife, surface and groundwater monitoring, and reclamation research. He also actively pursues new opportunities for K’en T’em, to continue building the capacity of our business. Keaton is passionate about using the opportunities his role gives him to protect the environment for our future generations, and to provide economic growth for the communities of our Participating Bands.
Nick was born in New Westminster BC, but moved to Kamloops at a young age where he still calls home. He went to Langara School of Management in Vancouver where he graduated in 2020 with a diploma in Business Management. Nick has years of sales and business admin experience in various industries with a proven track record. In Nick’s time at K’en T’em he has seen significant growth and development in all aspects of the business.
In his free time he loves to be active with hockey, running, hiking. He is eager to learn more about the eight participating bands, and looks forward to seeing the continued growth and development of K'en T'em.
Atrayu Johnny is part of the Lytton Indian Band. Atrayu was born in Kamloops but raised in Merritt. He grew up playing hockey and doing other outdoor activities. He enjoys spending time with his family and exploring new outdoor adventures with his dogs.
Atrayu Joined the Citxw Nlaka'pamux Assembly in 2018 as a program coordinator. He then shifted to a Jr Environmental Technician position for K'en Tem in the year 2020. He is now the Project Manager for K'en T'em's Envirnomental Technician 2024 team that takes part in the Surface, MDMER and Groundwater monitoring programs at Highland Valley Copper. He is proud to be a member of the Nlaka'pamux Nation, and proud to serve the communities by taking part in monitoring something as precious as water.
Kay-lee was born in Kamloops and raised in Merritt. She is a member of the Siska Indian Band. Kay-lee has always loved the outdoors. She spent a lot of time camping, fishing, hunting, or even just driving around on the backroads as a child with her family.
Kay-lee completed her Environmental Resources Technology diploma in April 2020. She worked with BCTS for two years, then moved on and began working with K’en T’em in March 2022 as an Environmental Technician. Kay-lee's role as Site Supervisor is collecting water samples and data for the Surface Water and Groundwater monitoring program at HVC. She also leads data entry to maintain the surface and groundwater database.
Jon Dobrovolny was raised in Kamloops. He spent a season as a Cultural Heritage Technician where he demonstrated hard work and appreciation for the Nlaka'pamux Territory. After the Cultural Heritage season, Jon was hired as an Environmental Technician for K’en T’em's HVC Water Team.
He has always been passionate about being in the outdoors and enjoying nature and wildlife. From a young age he has been taught to respect and appreciate the beauty around him. Some of his hobbies include hunting, fishing, hiking, and golfing. He lives in Kamloops with his wife Brooklynn, and their newborn son Archie. As a new father Jon looks forward to instilling the values he was taught growing up onto Archie.
I was born and raised in Kamloops BC, and am third youngest of four sons. All my life I’ve had a passion for hiking, camping and spending time in the outdoors, appreciating wildlife and the amazing nature within Secwepemcúl’ecw and the traditional territory of the Syilx Nation. I pursued this passion in my adult life and got my Bachelor’s degree in Natural Resource Science at Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops. In previous summers, I have worked for environmental consulting companies doing vegetation management, mostly of invasive plants, as well as hydro seeding projects to prevent erosion.
With K’en T’em, I am an Environmental Technician who loves being out in the field, as well as working with the data and writing reports in the office. Over my first year I’ve worked on a range of different projects, including surface water and groundwater monitoring, reclamation/biodiversity monitoring, a few wildlife oriented projects, along with Annual Reports and Technical Memos. I am excited and motivated to have a career in environmental work and natural resources.
Kami French grew up in Princeton, BC on a hobby farm, where she developed her love for animals and the outdoors. She started riding horses at the age of 5, which opened up a lot of doors to go outside and experience the mountains and wildlife. Kami graduated from Princeton Secondary in 2019, working various outdoor jobs before starting with K'en T'em in January 2023. In her free time, Kami enjoys gardening, spending quality time with family, and going for rides with her horses and dogs. Kami is very excited to be in her new position, learning about and playing a role in ensuring the health and safety of our communities and wildlife.
Post graduation Danny gained experience in several different industries from non-profit work educating and advocating for 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, to working in the horticulture and agriculture industry. They realized their passion lay in combining their advocacy work with their deep love and connection to nature that had been nurtured by years of hands in the dirt. This passion led them to K'en T'em where they currently work as a project manager & in the field technician on a variety of environmental initiatives.
Danny’s expertise spans across many disciplines with an emphasis on social advocacy, effective plant growth and management, reclamation via native plant species, wildlife monitoring with an emphasis in ornithological projects, and Indigenous cultural heritage identification and preservation
Jenna McKenna is an Environmental Technician with K’en T’em, having graduated from Thompson Rivers University with her bachelor’s degree in Natural Resource Sciences in May of 2023. She currently holds her BIT and AAg destinations working towards being a Registered Professional Biologist and Professional Agrologist. Prior to joining K’en T’em, she gained experience primarily working as a summer student within indigenous organizations, attaining valuable experience in the field. This includes being a Resource Specialist with a focus on wildlife mitigation and monitoring. As a hobby in her spare time, she does nature photography, always looking for an opportunity to build on the skill.
Ali Gallant was raised in Sooke, 45 minutes outside of Victoria. Growing up she was constantly outdoors, whether it was hiking, camping, swimming, walks on a beach, or enjoying late night fires. She has always been passionate about the environment, having participated in invasives species events while growing up, she joined the environment club in high school and volunteered with the Invasive Species Council of British Columbia throughout her time at Camosun College.
She graduated in May 2023 with a diploma in Environmental Technology from Camosun College in Victoria, BC. She spent last summer in Port Renfrew, the traditional territories of Pacheedaht Nation, where she worked for the Department of Fisheries and Oceans as creel surveyor. She is elated to gain some more hands-on field experience, and to expand her skill set and knowledge in the environmental field. As a member of the Ashcroft Indian band, she is excited at the opportunity to be able to connect with her culture, heritage, and her extended family. When not at work, you can find Ali exploring the Nlaka’pamux area, visiting every cute coffee shop she can find, and spending time with her family.
Brooke Bazian was born in Abbotsford B.C. but grew up in Kamloops on Tk’emlúps te Secwepemc territory with her parents and older brother and sister. She graduated in 2022 from the University of Victoria with a Double Major in Environmental Science and Anthropology while pursuing varsity rugby.
Her childhood goal was to pursue rugby at the highest level but due to injury, she decided to change paths and follow her other interests. Brooke has always been passionate about all the natural world has to offer through hiking, camping, swimming, running and biking. She is eager to learn about the unique culture of the eight CNA communities and is fascinated by people and their strong connection to the land.
She is currently hired on as a Junior Archaeologist for K’en T’em and can’t wait to explore new discoveries in cultural heritage work and see what opportunities arise within K'en T'em.
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