Meet Rob Buchanan, a lead educator at Awaken!
Rob brings a unique perspective to Awaken, as he grew up in the small mountain town of New Denver, BC, where he developed a deep appreciation for the natural world.

As an educator, Rob is passionate about creating mentor-based, experiential learning opportunities for his students. In addition to his passion for teaching and the outdoors, Rob brings a wealth of connections and experience to the Awaken Program, engaging his students in learning experiences with local scientists, naturalists, and entrepreneurs. 

Rob holds a Bachelor's degree in Forestry from the University of British Columbia and completed his graduate studies at Simon Fraser University. Rob completed his Master of Education in Place & Nature-Based Experiential Education at Simon Fraser University. His background in forestry gives him a strong knowledge of the natural resources and environmental issues facing the Okanagan region. His studies and work experience have provided him with an in-depth understanding of the various ecosystems and habitats found in the area. 

Meet Caitlin Belot, a lead educator at Awaken!
Caitlin grew up in the Okanagan Valley, spending her time exploring the local wilderness, and her connection to the natural world has only grown over the years.

Caitlin is a passionate educator who brings a unique blend of nature-based education and experiential learning to her classes. She encourages her students to explore areas of study through cross-curricular connections with local land experts, such as ethnobotanists, foragers, and naturalists. 

Caitlin completed her Bachelor of Education at Simon Fraser University, focusing on Mathematics and Kinesiology. Caitlin completed her Master of Education, specializing in Place & Nature-Based Experiential Learning through Simon Fraser University. She is dedicated to providing authentic learning experiences, offering courses that weave numeracy, literacy, and core competencies into students' areas of interest.

Meet Sharon, the Education Assistant at Awaken!
Sharon thrives on creating meaningful connections and relationships with students, their families, fellow staff and the land we all reside on.

Sharon grew up in Northern B.C. and spent much of her time outside, gardening, building tree forts with her siblings, picking berries, camping, and truly connecting to nature. 

Sharon completed her Certified Education Assistant Program at Okanagan College and has continued her learning by taking courses in Indigenous knowledge, sign language, trauma-informed practice, autism spectrum condition and more. She is a lifelong learner and is always looking for ways she can improve her skills to better support the students she is growing and learning alongside.