STAFF ROSTER
HOOKSUM OUTDOOR SCHOOL

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Steve Charleson: A member of the Hesquiaht First Nation, Steve has lived in the Hesquiat area all of his life. A commercial fisherman and former Chief Councilor, Steve brings a host of experience, practical and traditional knowledge to Hooksum Outdoor School. Steve has over a dozen years of experience working with both youth and adult wilderness-based programs in the Hesquiat area, and a lifetime of experience on the local waters. Steve is a certified BOAT instructor/examiner and a certified Maritime Radio Course instructor/examiner.

Karen Charleson: MA (Integrated Studies) Also a member of the Hesquiaht First Nation, Karen has organized and undertaken numerous successful wilderness camps and training programs in Hesquiat Harbour since the early 1990's. Having lived in the area for over thirty years, Karen brings a wealth of local knowledge and expertise to Hooksum. Karen has cooked for thousands of people in Hesquiat Harbour and is popular for her great meals, baked goodies, and attention to diverse tastes and needs.

Ian Green: BSc (Human Kinetics), Dip. Recreation Leadership. Ian has designed and implemented wilderness-based, experiential education, and conservation-based programs in Australia, China, Brazil, Peru, Costa Rica and Canada. Ian was instrumental in the design and development of Rediscovery International's Guide Training Program. He has worked with members of the Hesquiaht First Nation since 1994, planning and undertaking indigenous based outdoor education programs. Ian's company, Greenheart Conservation, builds canopy walkways in forests around the world.

Dwayne Collins: BEd. Dwayne has worked extensively on the development of emergency response training and safety assessments for wilderness based programs. He has provided instruction to hundreds of individuals and has developed a teaching methodology and curriculum effective for all styles of learners. Dwayne has worked as a paramedic for the BC Ambulance Service for over 15 years and is a paramedic trainer/instructor. He is a past member of the Lions Bay Search and Rescue Team, has spent 12 years as a professional lifeguard, and is the owner/instructor of Fundamental First Aid.

Shandy Kariatsumari: Shandy is one of the top surf instructors in Canada. Shandy's qualifications include 14 years of competitive swimming, reaching Canadian national level. Shandy received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Emily Carr Institute of Fine Arts and Design in 1999. She shapes and applies artwork for surfing, surf coaches, and is active in Open Water Lifesaving, Outdoor Recreation, and Wilderness Survival.

Dave Shepherd: A New Zealand Surf Lifeguard instructor and examiner, and an active surf lifeguard for the past 10 years, Dave also has extensive experience in developing education programs. He is the past Education Manager of New Zealand Surf Lifesaving and co-founded Squid Trust, a NZ personal development program for youth.

Alex Jules: Diploma in Tourism Managment. Alex is a member of the Kyuquot First Nation. He is the coordinator of Kyuquot Rediscovery, a summer program that brings local and other youth out camping to learn about Kyuquot traditional territories on the northern west coast of Vancouver Island. Alex also has extensive knowledge and experience of Hesquiaht territories.

Terry Asselstine: Terry discovered kayaking had something special to offer, something not cultivated in our hurry up lifestyle. For Terry, an intimate knowledge of the environment through prolonged observation, and our connection to that environment, provides the foundation of sea kayaking. Terry is currently a Paddle Canada Level II kayak instructor and has taught for over ten years.

Layla Rorick: Layla was born and grew up in the Hesquiaht area. She combines local knowledge with positive energy and experience in leadership and development programs throughout the Americas. Layla is a Paddle Canada certified kayaking instructor and a certified lifesaving instructor.

Estella Charleson: As a Paddle Canada Level 1 Sea Kayaking Instructor and a member of the Hesquiaht First Nation, Estella brings knowledge of the local West Coast environment and the experience of a seasoned kayaker. Involved in the tourism industry, Estella provides knowledge based on both worldly and local experience. Estella is also a traditional weaver, medicinal plant enthusiast and a proud Indigenous woman who provides a unique perspective within the kayak world.

Robin Rorick: Robin's Instructor Sessions are marked by the patience of a Haida carver, the fortitude of a surf enthusiast, and the experience of various leadership programs. Robin is a Powerboat/Kayak Guide, fisherman, and a Haida watchman on Haida Gwaii when he is not carving. He is also a certified lifesaving instructor.

Jamie Bale: Jamie has extensive experience and knowledge of surfing and surflifesaving instruction.  Jamie has taught surf lessons in Tofino for 5 years and led a weekly surf club for local youth. Jamie’s passion for surfing has led him to Hawaii, Costa Rica, Panama, Mexico, Nova Scotia, and Haida Gwaii but Hesquiaht is his ultimate paradise. Jamie is also a qualified lifeguard, and ocean and river kayaker.  His passion for surf safety, knowledge, and enjoyment makes Jamie one of the best lifesaving instructors in Canada.

Not all Staff members may be present at every session or program.