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.

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.

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.

Rowan Gloag: As a Paddle Canada Level 2 Instructor and Level 4 Skills, Rowan is an enthusiastic, committed and professional sea kayak Instructor. With over ten years experience, Rowan brings a unique and very positive style on Instruction to paddling programs and leadership development. As an active sea kayaker, Rowan's skills and passion are demonstrated in his courses, his commitment to the The Hurricane Riders, and his paddling films. www.thrrowan.blogspot.com. Rowan is very proud to be a part of the Hooksum Team.

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.

Mariah Charleson (BA, First Nations Studies): A member of the Hesquiaht First Nation, Mariah grew up in traditional Hesquiaht territories. Mariah is a lead guide, an avid athlete and championship basketball player. She has organized major provincial and community events. Mariah has led numerous youth and adult groups hiking, kayaking, and canoeing around the Hesquiaht area. She is also a past graduate of the West Coast Outdoor Leadership Training program.

Jamie Bale: Jamie has extensive experience and knowledge of surfing and surflifesaving instruction.  Jamie has taught and managed surf lessons in Tofino for the past 8 years and led numerous surf outings 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.

Joshua Charleson: Josh is a member of the Hesquiaht First Nation and grew up in Hesquiaht traditional territories. Josh is energetic, enthusiastic, and active. You can usually find him sea kayaking, hiking, surfing, gathering seafood, fishing, or touring guests around his home area and other parts of Clayoquot Sound. Josh is a Paddle Canada sea kayak instructor, and past graduate of the West Coast Outdoor Leadership Training program.

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

Thanks to Kay Blunt-Clayden, Ian Charlson, and Estella Charleson for their excellent photography on this site.