I am studying the socioeconomic aspects of mine reclamation in BC as it pertains to the decline of central mountain caribou. I have a background as a policy analyst working on the advancement of Indigenous peoples’ rights and title, particularly focused on the full implementation of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO COME TO SFU?

I chose to come to SFU to work with and learn from Dr. Rosemary-Claire Collard.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR RESEARCH OR YOUR PROGRAM TO A FAMILY MEMBER?

My research is examining who benefits and who loses from current mine reclamation practices in caribou habitat in northeastern BC. In particular, I am interested in connecting the technical aspects of mine reclamation with emerging conversations in the political ecology of ecological restoration.

WHAT ARE YOU PARTICULARLY ENJOYING ABOUT YOUR RESEARCH AT SFU?

I am enjoying building friendships with my peers and fellow geographers.

HAVE YOU BEEN THE RECIPIENT OF ANY MAJOR OR DONOR-FUNDED AWARDS? IF SO, PLEASE TELL US WHICH ONES AND HOW THE AWARDS HAVE IMPACTED YOUR STUDIES AND/OR RESEARCH.

SSHRC CGSM; Special Graduate Entrance Scholarship; Mackenzie King Open Scholarship; Andre Gerolymatos Graduate Award; Graduate Fellowship; and the Andrew Petter Graduate Scholarship in Public Policy.

I am grateful for the funding that I have received from SFU which has allowed me to focus on my research and be able to take on a more involved role in the work of my research team.