Shanda was born in Manitoba and grew up in remote Northern British Columbia where she learned horsemanship, hunting, cooking, and bushcraft from her mother and father as they worked year-round for big game guide outfitters. Shanda is Metis on her mother’s side and Ukrainian on her father’s side and is eager to learn more about the history of Metis people in Canada. Having employment experience in residential care, mental health and addiction facilities, and school settings in psychiatric support and counselling roles, Shanda has worked closely with marginalized and at-risk youth for over 10 years. As such, she has been afforded a close-up view of how the justice system can impact youth, their families and communities. Shanda is completing studies in Psychology, enjoys the outdoors and being in nature, likes movies and sports, and is a certified group fitness instructor. She believes strongly in the principles of restorative justice and is pleased to help deliver IYOP material this year.