Meet The Team
Heather (Executive Director)
Heather (Executive Director)
Heather (Executive Director)
I am Heather, the founder of Kandu, and I proudly serve as a mother and grandmother. Hailing originally from Treaty 1 territory, I bring with me a wealth of diverse life experiences. My core mission is to elevate the voices of Indigenous communities that face systemic discrimination, striving to create a platform where these voices are he
I am Heather, the founder of Kandu, and I proudly serve as a mother and grandmother. Hailing originally from Treaty 1 territory, I bring with me a wealth of diverse life experiences. My core mission is to elevate the voices of Indigenous communities that face systemic discrimination, striving to create a platform where these voices are heard and respected. I am dedicated to supporting the vulnerable, raising awareness, destigmatizing, and driving positive change.
Dorothy (Elder Consultant)
Heather (Executive Director)
Heather (Executive Director)
Dorothy, our esteemed Indigenous Elder Consultant, brings a wealth of knowledge rooted deeply in culture, change, and diversity. With a lifetime of experiences, she embodies resilience and wisdom, having overcome personal battles with addiction. Dorothy's journey has been a testament to the power of cultural teachings in healing and trans
Dorothy, our esteemed Indigenous Elder Consultant, brings a wealth of knowledge rooted deeply in culture, change, and diversity. With a lifetime of experiences, she embodies resilience and wisdom, having overcome personal battles with addiction. Dorothy's journey has been a testament to the power of cultural teachings in healing and transformation. As a beacon of strength and insight, Dorothy's passion lies in creating spaces of healing and empowerment for all, transcending barriers and nurturing a more inclusive and compassionate world.
Tyra (Indigenous Youth Navigator)
Tyra (Indigenous Youth Navigator)
Tyra (Indigenous Youth Navigator)
Hi my name is Tyra. I am currently engaged in research with the University of Victoria and volunteer part time with Kandu. As a mother of two, I draw upon my personal journey with my previous substance use as a tool of connection and empathy. From the region of Sandy Bay First Nation on Treaty One Territory, I find peace and creativity in
Hi my name is Tyra. I am currently engaged in research with the University of Victoria and volunteer part time with Kandu. As a mother of two, I draw upon my personal journey with my previous substance use as a tool of connection and empathy. From the region of Sandy Bay First Nation on Treaty One Territory, I find peace and creativity in beadwork and regalia crafting during my leisure hours. My advocacy focuses on individuals facing stigma, racism, and discrimination, I’m a firm believer in the fundamental principles of equality and dignity for all.
Faron (Peer Navigator)
Tyra (Indigenous Youth Navigator)
Tyra (Indigenous Youth Navigator)
My name is Faron. I come from Burnaby where I grew up in a dysfunctional family suffering from many forms of abuse as well as addictions. This has given me a sense of compassion and empathy for the people we serve at KANDU. I spent time on the mean streets of Vancouver so I have a heart for the unhoused community.
The last 5 years I have
My name is Faron. I come from Burnaby where I grew up in a dysfunctional family suffering from many forms of abuse as well as addictions. This has given me a sense of compassion and empathy for the people we serve at KANDU. I spent time on the mean streets of Vancouver so I have a heart for the unhoused community.
The last 5 years I have dedicated my life to making the lives of the unhoused and addicted community as comfortable as possible. I have been trained in Peer Navigation, Naloxone use , Non-violent Communication, Crisis intervention. I managed 6-8 employees at the Queensway bathrooms in Kelowna where I had the fortune of bringing countless people back from overdose. I also have worked in the recovery world. At Freedoms Door I was hired to facilitate groups and teach the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous.