Meet Chersti Dennis! Chersti is from Armstrong but moved to Kamloops in 2018. She is an assertive woman who loves empowering others and mountain biking!
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kamloops?
I grew up in Armstrong, B.C., but have lived in Halifax, N.S., and Dauphin, M.B. while working as a Registered Nurse. I completed my BSc in Nursing at TRU in 2014, and moved back to Kamloops in 2018.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
My Gran, Isabel Reinertson. She is a strong, independent woman that inspires so much in my life.
What is your favourite local store in Kamloops and why?
Far and Wide - the store’s aesthetic and the owners hospitality offer such a feeling of calm that I love.
Describe yourself in one word.
Assertive.
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
South Africa - to meet my partners family, and pay respects to a place that helped form who he and his family are today.
What is your favourite activity in Kamloops?
Mountain Biking! The terrain in Kamloops is amazing!
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you?
Far too embarrassing to post for the public!
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
As a young aboriginal woman I’ve had many opportunities, both empowering and belittling, that have accumulated and still do to inspire me to live my most authentic self. I hope that one day my truth will offer an opportunity for at least one person to be their most authentic self.
Tell us your favourite childhood memory.
I have many fond memories. A good amount of them revolve around me following my older siblings around. I believe at the time they thought I was annoying and clingy, but now I’m sure they think back and see how precious I really was!
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I have had the pleasure of volunteering for the TRU Faculty of Nursing for the past two years by speaking to the first-year nursing students or participating in panels for the school. The topics of choice revolve around cultural safety, and unconscious bias in the workplace.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
I have recently come across a kindergarten journal of mine that asked the same question. My answer 24 years ago was: world peace, and that everyone would be a Pokémon. I would refine my answer today by adding: that we all participate in a movement of empathy and kindness towards all (regardless of sex, race, sexual orientation, and ability).
Where would you sneak away to in Kamloops to spend some time alone?
The beach at Pioneer Park.
Where would you like to see positive change in Kamloops and why?
In the social media platforms visited by Kamloops people.
What do you think makes Kamloops great?
Our diversity!
What are 3 things on your bucket list?
1. Travel more and experience cultures around the world.
2. Become skilled enough to tackle a black mountain biking run (downhill and enduro).
Tell us something that not everyone may know about you.
I have a terrible green thumb.
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media?
Instagram.
What is the name of your business/organization?
Not a business - but advocating for equality.
Why did you get into/start this business?
Because not all humans have the same voice or outlet, but deserve to be heard.
What is the goal of your business?
Support and empower others to be empathetic.
What has been your biggest struggle either at work or in life?
Balance work and life.
What do you always find yourself saying?
"I believe in you."
Tell us your best piece of life advice.
It Will probably be difficult, but surround yourself with people who truly want the best for you. Even if that means severing some ties that will make you feel lonely temporarily.
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
Michelle Obama.
Why do you think it is important to shop locally?
More money is kept locally.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
Attaining my Critical Care certificate in nursing
Give someone you think that deserves it a shout out and explain why!
The nurses in the ER at RIH. They work so hard and continuously expand their education and knowledge for the betterment of the health care provided in our community.
My choice for the KamloopsBCNow In Focus spotlight is:
Brad Anderson.
Some general comments I would like to share are:
Take all the opportunities that you find. Our life is short, and when we expend ourselves, we never know what good could come from it.
We encourage you to leave your comments and words of support below and submit your own nomination by clicking HERE. You are also welcome to submit a form of your own by clicking HERE. Thank you, Kamloops.
In Focus is our gift to the community. A way for us to help show our recognition of the people, businesses, and organizations that help make our city great!
