International guests visit TIB

May 2009--Kamloops, British Columbia- A Rotary Group Study Exchange visited the Tk’emlup’s Indian Band office May 11, 2009 seeking words of wisdom that they could take back with them to Northern Australia.

The group met with Chief Shane Gottfriedson and councilors Kevin Jules, Dave Manuel, Connie Leonard, Evelyn Camille and Fred Seymour where they learned about how the Tk’emlups Indian Band has been able to become a successful and thriving community and business.

“I am excited to be able to bring this team of young professionals that are heavily involved with aboriginals in our country to learn from you guys and your practices,” said Steve Lavin, team leader.

The Rotary group was made up of Rosanna Breed - policing development officer, Arullan Naido- pharmacist, Hayley Laidlow- elementary school teacher, Tim Palph- High School Teacher, Mick Ruppin- veterinarian, and team leader Steve Lavis- horticulturalist. They posed questions on issues surrounding educational practices and programming, reconciliation, and health and safety.

“The work that Rotary International does worldwide is fantastic, and the networks that are built are great,” said Chief Shane Gottfriedson. As we continue to foster and build relationships internationally and locally we then will truly begin to advance our people by sharing knowledge,” he said.

The meeting was a great success as the Chief and Council were able to share a plethora of knowledge and information with the group who will be taking the shared information back to their own communities on the other side of the globe.

“We are extremely humbled to be here and it’s a great honour to be able to sit here and learn from you,” said Lavin.

For more information contact:

KelleyO'Grady                                                                                                                                                                                       kogrady@kib.ca                                                                                                                                                                             Communications and EventsCoordinator                                                                                                                                                                               Tk'emlups Indian Band