About

Simolo’o/Monster, Art Wilson

Simolo’o/Monster, Art Wilson

 


Storytellers' is a place-based and community-driven organization that focuses on community-based actions and initiatives in order to engage citizens and build relationships between people, and people and the land. 

Our approach is grounded in fostering empowering relationships, where we learn and work together as Gitxsan, Wet'suwet'en and non-Indigenous citizens, to contribute to our community well-being; rooted in the needs, ideas, interests and strengths of the people living here.

Through our community space, The Learning Shop, we support meaningful learning experiences that engage people in literacy and food security activities to amplify their capacity, skill, and knowledge for personal growth, community engagement, and success. We also coordinate local networks to engage people and build collaborative approaches for community capacity building.

 

Art Wilson created our logo - Simolo’o/Monster.  He told us this creature gives, he grows an arm to receive, and as he receives, he grows yet another arm in order to give. It is reciprocity.   “Create opportunities for all to give and get.”

Our Roots

Storytellers’ was founded following the first round of Treaty talks involving the Gitxsan, British Columbia, and Canada in 1993. Our original team was deeply engaged in public education around the treaty process, and we frequently heard that local communities struggled to collaborate. However, what we witnessed in our work told a different story. We saw individuals eager to engage in dialogue and bridge their differences to foster a sense of community. Many showed remarkable courage by confronting sensitive topics and learning together.

This spirit of collaboration energized us and strengthened our commitment to our community. The Chiefs involved in the treaty process expressed their desire for us to continue our efforts, particularly in engaging young people. They appreciated how Storytellers’ brought together Gitxsan and non-Gitxsan community members to envision a culturally diverse society where collaboration enhances both social and economic opportunities while promoting healthy ecosystems.

With this vision in mind, in 2000 we formed into a non-profit organization which has carried out a wide variety of programs, depending on the specific needs of the community at the time. Today, we are guided by a dedicated board and a passionate staff, all committed to carrying out impactful projects that benefit our community.

Meet the Team

  • Diane McRae - Chairperson: Hagwil Ganaa’w (Diane McRae) is Gitxsan and Tsimshian from the Fireweed Clan and the House of Xsgogimlaxha. With 40 years of experience in First Nations organizations, she has served in roles such as Band Administrator, Finance Manager, and Executive Director of Gitxsan Child & Family Services. Diane is currently the Executive Director of the Gitksan Government Commission, where she has worked for 27 years. Active on numerous local and provincial boards, Diane is also a longtime member of the ‘Ksan Performing Arts Dance group and enjoys golfing in her free time.


    Karista Olson- Vice Chair: Karista is Gitxsan and Dakelh, with Persian and Swedish ancestry, from Sik-e-dakh. A member of the bear and fireweed (adopted) clans and wilps wag'yet, she holds a joint major in English and Environmental Studies with minors in First Nations and International Studies from UNBC. After a community economic development internship in Hazelton, she worked in Victoria with the Indigenous Forest Bioeconomy Program and now serves as a Senior Advisor in Community and Social Innovation with the Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation. A board member since 2019, Karista values supporting the impactful work of the Storytellers community.

  • Bev Busby, Secretary: Bev is a settler from Prince Edward Island who has lived on Gitxsan territory for 35 years. She serves as Administrator and Program Coordinator for the Wrinch Memorial Foundation Society, overseeing parenting and canning programs. Her connection to Storytellers dates back to 2006, when she worked as a harm reduction advocate in their building. Bev deeply appreciates Storytellers' work, which has supported her family and community in meaningful ways over the years.


    Darren Pierzchala, Director: Darren has lived in Twomile, Hazelton on Gitxsan territory for 17 years after moving from Southern Alberta. A founding member of Skeena Bakery and manager of the Hazelton Farmers Market, he balances work with raising his two young children. Inspired by Storytellers’ community-building efforts, Darren joined the board to help foster resilience and connection in Hazelton. He is proud to support their impactful work.

  • Ashley Reagan, Treasurer- coming soon!

    Brenda Barritt, Executive Director: Brenda is a white settler of central European heritage with over 25 years of experience in the nonprofit sector as a volunteer, leader, board member, and consultant. Her work spans local, regional, and international roles. Driven by curiosity about leadership and community, Brenda values food as a connector, a way to explore culture, and a source of nourishment and celebration.