Adriana Morales (she/her)
Adriana is currently a bachelor of social work student at Thompson Rivers University. She is from San Diego, California, and grew up in a multigenerational household that influences her desire to work with children and families in the future. Adriana likes to play guitar, read and watch historical-fiction and is grateful to experience the Secwépemc territory with her husband and their two dogs.
Ralph Tarlit (he/him/his)
I have recently graduated from the social work program at Thompson Rivers University, and have been in the field for a number of years. This project gives me the opportunity to further my professional development in many ways different from my experiences in the field.
This research project is extremely important to me, as it intersects with many aspects of my life. I am a first generation Asian-Canadian male who comes from an immigrant family that migrated to Canada from the Philippines over 40 years ago. I also identify as gay, have a partner in the ranching community and my daughter is Indigenous. When thinking about experiences within diverse communities, I can relate to many of them.
Karlee Bryan (she/her)
As a 4th year Bachelor of Social Work student through Thompson Rivers University, I am interested in research and allyship. I recognize that my social location places me in a position of privilege. I am interested in researching this project because I believe that bringing awareness is the starting place for change. When I am not involved in research I enjoy rock climbing, horseback riding, and trail guiding.
Rachel Frymire (She/Her)
I was born and raised in Secwépemc territory in Kamloops, BC. My background is a mixture of Métis and European ancestry. When I’m not working on this project, I work with school age children at a childcare centre. In my free time I enjoy beading, film photography, fishing, and hiking
I began on this project back in September 2021 as a practicum student. After graduating from the Bachelor of Social Work program at Thompson Rivers University in January, I continued my learning on the project as a research assistant. The collaborative nature of this research methodology has provided such rich learning for me. I have a special interest in learning how to make this project accessible and accommodating for all. As someone that holds several privileged identities, I’m learning the importance of de-centering my voice and listening to the stories and expertise of rural men from diverse communities. What I’ve learned so far is invaluable. Thank you to everyone involved and I look forward to seeing where this project takes us.
Andrei Ouspenski (he/they)
I am a social worker, an immigrant, and a (dis)Abled person. My practice experience is primarily in the field of mental health and substance use. I am also passionate about equity, accessibility, and human rights; particularly when it pertains to sexuality, gender, and sex. In research, I am interested in the intersections of various identities, and am honoured to be able to contribute to research for male identified folks in a community participatory approach. I am also very excited to be able to support students and future social workers on this project! Aside from professional interests, I love gardening, fishing, and cooking, while living on beautiful and unceded Secwépemc lands
