Staff

lee is a queer intersectional feminist working to break down the systems of oppression that inhibit equality. they moved to nelson in 2020 and is grateful for the amazing people and land that surround this valley. they became involved with the wkwa in 2021 and became executive director in january 2023. lee is excited to be supporting the west kootenay women's association in its ongoing efforts to serve the community.lee has a passion for learning and has studied fine art, biology, english literature, environmental studies and most recently began a marine service technician apprenticeship. When not studying or working, you may find them reading, tinkering, basking in nature, or cuddling with their dog and two cats.

Originally from Toronto, Siân travelled abroad for years before settling in Nelson, BC. She feels deeply grateful to live and work on the ancestral lands of the Sinixt. AN intersectional feminist at heart, Siân brings a deep commitment to environmental, social, and racial justice, with experience working alongside Indigenous organizations and communities. As Programs Manager at the Nelson and District Women’s Centre, she is passionate about creating spaces where people feel seen, heard, supported, and empowered. She believes that meaningful change grows through connection, compassion, and collective action, and is dedicated to working toward a world free from oppression, where all people can live with equality, dignity, and freedom. As a mother to a daughter, her hope for a kinder, more just world is deeply personal and rooted in her vision for future generations. Outside of work, Siân finds joy in the simple things: hiking, practicing yoga, foraging for mushrooms, tending to her garden, cooking, and spending time immersed in nature. She feels incredibly fortunate to call Nelson home and to be part of a community working toward a more compassionate, equitable, and connected world.

Originally from England, Jade landed in Nelson in 2021, drawn to the artistic, outdoorsy spirit and strong sense of community that makes this town feel like home. She is grateful to live and work on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territories of the Sinixt, Ktunaxa, and Syilx peoples. With a background in counselling, community work, and hospitality, she brings a trauma-informed, person-centred approach to her work at the Women’s Centre. Jade is passionate about creating spaces where people feel welcomed, respected, heard, and free to show up exactly as they are. She believes that everyone deserves access to support, connection, and community, and that sometimes the simplest things, a safe space, a listening ear, or a sense of belonging, can make a meaningful difference. She values community care, creativity, and shared experiences, and is committed to continually learning about intersectional feminism, and the different experiences and barriers that shape people’s lives. Outside of her work, she enjoys learning through human connection and conversations books, particularly those that challenge her perspective and deepen her understanding of the world around her.