Leaf Rapids

I have been a Northerner all my life. I’ve had my share of the struggle of living in remote communities and living day to day with little to no food. As time has passed and I matured, I saw that this way was not only a problem in places that I lived but in many other communities. No Food and health problems. I knew that I wanted to make a difference in the world, that I had to learn more about food and the care of plants and nature. In order for me to do more, I had to learn more, I wasn’t going to be any help if I didn’t know what I was doing.

One of my greatest mentors and who is still helping me learn everyday, is my friend Chuck Stensgard. I’ve learned so much from him and his philosophy of life. I’ve gone a different path from what he taught, but his teachings are still there and are still greatly appreciated. I wouldn’t have followed this path of food and learning if my friends didn’t insist on me going to help with the place known as the Nursey today. I had helped with the early stages of that area and it was a lot of trial and error, as we didn’t know much about plants and gardening, but there was a plan set in motion; our work was the first step into something so much bigger. The reason I had taken on the position of Northern Advisor so that I could learn and help as much as I could. I never pass a learning opportunity, because one opportunity opens another, and this cycle continues.

I never thought that I would have experienced the things that I have and continue to do. I worked at the Leaf Rapids Co-op for 8 years, ending in a management position. I was part of the volunteer firefighters in Leaf Rapids. I also successfully ran for Mayor of Leaf Rapids and it was an important learning experience. I am now working at the health centre and learning more about health services in the north. Recently, I was nominated and received the Queen Elizabeth ll Platinum Jubilee Medal for service of public service.

I look forward to reengaging with the Northern Manitoba Food, Culture, and Community Collaborative so I can again learn about the work taking place all across the province, visit over communities to learn about how they manage to get by with the health problems in their community and what they have done to battle growing food costs. To share my thoughts, feelings, and my story and hopefully see their projects, community, and people grow and become healthier. This is what I want. I want the North to become healthy and strong like it used to be. Like the stories I heard from grandfather, how the men would hunt for their own food and grow their own food. Once I have done my part helping the North, I hope one day I have gathered enough knowledge to help change the world.