Kylie Peake
More about Kylie’s internship
Kylie is working with Beaver First Nation as a Health and Wellness Intern. Upon arrival, Kylie has been helping with the community orchard by planting fruit and berry-producing shrubs and trees. She has also been helping with the high school graduation celebrations and writing grant applications for the community garden development. She has had a chance to tour the region with community members and fellow interns.
A conversation with Kylie Peake about participating in the Engage North Internship Program
Who are you?
My name is Kylie and this summer I am the Health and Wellness Intern for Beaver First Nation! I recently graduated this past spring with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from the University of Alberta, Augustana Campus with plans of pursuing a career in medicine, specifically working in rural and remote locations. Areas that I am specifically interested in and passionate about include individual and community approaches to nutrition and education surrounding mental health. Aside from school and work, I enjoy a wide variety of sports and outdoor activities including basketball, running, golf, cross-country skiing, and hiking.
What are your specific interests as an intern for Engage North?
My interests surround the health and wellbeing of individuals as well as the community as a whole. More specifically, I am interested in assisting in health clinics, education regarding health and nutrition, mental health advocacy, working on projects such as a community garden, and implementation of sports and recreation programs for individuals of all ages.
While these are some potential ideas, I am very much looking forward to assisting the community in any way that I can and am aware that there are most likely projects that I have not even considered. I am excited to learn more about the community and help with whatever projects they have in mind!
Why do you want to be an intern? What attracted you or motivated you to get the position?
As a Canadian citizen, I feel responsible for learning more about Indigenous peoples and culture and Engage North provides a meaningful opportunity to share my skills and contribute in whatever capacity the community needs while gaining valuable knowledge to better understand how to interact and support the various interests and goals of Indigenous communities.
When I initially came across this position I thought it was the perfect opportunity to engage in an immersive experience and meaningfully contribute to my host community. In addition, living in the community permits the ability to participate in other activities and cultural events to increase my understanding and facilitate the formation of meaningful relationships. Through interacting with individuals and assisting with a variety of projects I hope to build fruitful relations with the community which I aim to maintain for years to come.
I am looking forward to this summer and feel so fortunate and grateful for Beaver First Nation for having me!