Volunteers: A number of volunteers assist at cultural gatherings. In addition, a retired social worker is available for volunteer consultation and a volunteer genealogist assists individuals in finding their Metis families and their cultural connections.
We welcome you to meet the staff:
Family Support Workers
Nicole Daigle, LPN, Human Services Diploma, BA (CYC)
I was born in Quebec City. My first language is French, so most people recognize me by my accent. When I was 20 years old, I came to Vancouver to learn English where I met my British husband and raised my two wonderful boys. My career has ranged from Nursing to Teaching to Child and Family Counsellor. Currently I am a Family Support Worker at Metis Community Services where I am an enthusiastic advocate for our clients and our adopted Metis children. I take great happiness in the successes of the people I work with.
I have a pioneer soul. I love beginnings and pilot projects such as when I coordinated and taught a Resident Care Attendant Program in French colleges in Victoria, Whitehorse, Nanaimo and Vancouver. I made CBC News because it was the first course at the college level which was available in French in British Columbia.
I love music, comedy, a good book, my white cat, and indoor plants.
Maureen Gent, Social Services Diploma, BSW
I was born and raised in Edmonton, Alberta. In my early twenties I travelled to Europe and never looked back. Eventually, I decided on the Canary Islands as my home. Ten years and two beautiful daughters later, I chose Victoria, B.C. (I like islands) as our home.
With fifteen years in the social work field, my experience has primarily been serving children and families as well as youth guardianship. After a break to pursue other interests I have returned to enjoy the variety that this work brings. When I'm not advocating on other's behalf I am busy with my family, friends and pets.
I believe it is a privilege to work with Metis families and take responsibility for providing the best services possible. I am committed to making sure other voices are heard. With the support of my team members, I am incorporating new techniques and approaches in my practice.
Making a positive difference in someone's life now that's inspiring
COLLABORATIVE PRACTICES Coordinator
Elena Vojakina, BSW
My name is Elena. I was born in Saint-Petersburg, Russia and immigrated to Canada in 1999. After high school, I studied business administration and worked as a marketing manager for a small private company. During that time, I was doing volunteer work for various community organizations and became interested in human and social development. To pursue my new interest, I gained a BA in social psychology with specialization in group therapy and privately practiced as a family/couple's counsellor.
I have been living in Victoria for the past 5 years enjoying its beautiful scenery and friendly people. I studied Social Work at the University of Victoria and have been privileged to find employment with Metis Community Services where I serve as a Family Group Conference Coordinator promoting collaborative decision making and family preservation and reunification for children and youth.
In my free time I enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, snowboarding, and a little bit of gardening.
Team Leader
Anna Arneja
I am first generation Canadian born. My parents immigrated to Canada from India to increase opportunities for their children. Culture and family history are important to me. My family had experienced the partition in 1947 and its impacts. I grew up in Vancouver with the values and traditions of an Indian and Canadian culture combined. I understand the significance of family and community. I am married and have a large extended family that is vital to my existence. I also have a love for all animals including my own two Mastiff dogs. Since moving to the Island in 2010, I am impressed by the beauty of the West Coast and the people that live here that do such a great job to maintain a strong sense a community. I enjoy hiking, cycling, and running. I am proud to have accomplished my first half marathon in Victoria in 2009. My previous experience includes working in program management with the RCMP, working as a Supervisor for Community Health Care Workers, and working in Child Protection Social Work in an urban Aboriginal community. I am honored to have joined Island Metis Family and Community Services in January 2011. I am passionate and committed to the safety and well-being of children physically, emotionally, and culturally.
FASD KEY Worker
Mona Carlson, First Nations Family Support Worker Program, FASD Certificate (on leave)
I am of Qualicum descent on my dad's side, and Musqueam descent on my mom's side. I am very proud that I have two children who have grown to be positive contributors to society: my daughter is a resource social worker; my son has just received his degree in anthropology and is now completing his law degree at UBC.
I have resided on Coast Salish Territory for about ten years.
My goal is to be the difference in helping make a paradigm shift happen in society while serving those affected by or living with FASD.
My hobbies are reading, crocheting and watching sports.
ALL MY RELATIONS
Rachel Elkenkel, Acting FASD Coordinator
Write up soon.
Cultural and Community Liaison
Rebecca Mabee, Indigenous Specialization BSWI am Metis of Cree/French and Cree/English ancestry on my father's side. We originated from Manitoba and Saskatchewan. I have lived on beautiful Vancouver Island for 24 years now and would not want to live any where else. Thank you to the Coast Salish Territory. I am very proud to be a Metis.
I am married and have 2 daughters (13 and 5). I enjoy a good book and a good laugh. When I'm not reading or laughing, I take kickboxing lessons.
Administrative Assistant
Linda Cochrane
I was born in a small prairie community, Three Hills, Alberta. Determined to move to the West Coast and live by the ocean my parents loaded up their 5 children, pets and worldly possessions and made Victoria their home.
I was raised in the Western Communities enjoying the freedom and lifestyle of rural living. I graduated from Belmont High School receiving honors in business and pursed a career in accounting.
After travelling Europe, exploring Hawaii and becoming a weekend sailor my next challenge and most rewarding part of my life has been raising my sons. Sunday is my favourite day of the week as we still gather with our family for dinner to share our weekly events. My passions include my love for horses, alpine skiing and gardening,.....not to mention home renovating.