Our Team

Paula Amos is of Hesquiaht and Squamish Nation descent, born and raised in the Nuu-chah-nulth Territory on Vancouver Island. She has worked in several positions with Indigenous Tourism BC for almost 20 years and has been working with Indigenous communities for 25 years, bridging the opportunities between the Indigenous tourism industry and mainstream tourism.

Henry Tso is an accomplished tourism leader with over 20 years of experience in tourism development, project management, business planning, and financial management. As the Chief Financial Officer for ITBC, Henry leverages his experience from CPA, CGA, CMA, and CAFM to provide strategic leadership in finance, partnerships, and corporate services.

As Corporate Development Manager, Reena harnesses her expertise in governance, strategic planning, and economic development to drive the organization’s corporate growth and progress.

Dana Schoahs was born in Berlin and has called Canada home for over 20 years. Dana has extensive experience in marketing tourism businesses and has worked with many Indigenous communities, hotels, tour operators, and DMOS on tourism initiatives.

A citizen of the Haida Nation and a Royal Roads University graduate with a Bachelor of Commerce in Entrepreneurial Management, Deanna is a recognized leader in digital strategy, social media, and communications for Indigenous businesses and organizations. Named one of Canada’s Top 10 Social Media and Communications Instructors in 2022, Deanna makes social media accessible and engaging -simplifying strategy and storytelling to drive real results.

Jordie Johnson | Sxoxomic is of Secwepemc decent, born and raised in Esk’etemc First Nation. He has more than ten years experience working in corporate communications and community engagement. Jordie has a great appreciation for Indigenous languages and protocols throughout the province and beyond.

Chatman Shaw was born and raised in Prince Rupert, BC, and is a member of the Nisga’a Nation community of Gitlaxt’aamiks. Chatman moved to Vancouver in 2005 to earn his degree in Business Administration, focusing on strategic management.

Jessie Penner is of Onyota’a:ka (Oneida) and European descent and was born and raised in Ontario on traditional Anishinaabek, Haudenosaunee, Lunaapeewak and Attawandaron Lands. She has eight years of experience working in Indigenous and education strategy, with a focus on capacity and relationship building.

Leah belongs to the Mohawk Nation (Kanienʼkehá꞉ka) from Six Nations of the Grand River in Ontario, part of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy. Born and raised off-reserve in BC, Leah also comes from Delaware (Lunaapeew) and European heritage. She has expertise in social media management, content creation, data-driven strategies, SEO, SEM, and PPC advertising.

With more than 10 years of experience as a writer, consultant, and Indigenous communication specialist, Kerry works exclusively with Indigenous small businesses, organizations, and First Nations communities. At ITBC, Kerry is a senior writer and consultant supporting storytelling, strategy, and branding for consumer and corporate channels, with Destination BC as part of the Iconics Team.

Todd Liang graduated from University of Saskatchewan. He started his work with Indigenous Tourism BC (ITBC) in 2018 and supports the organization’s finance activities. Todd is working towards his CPA designation and will continue to work in finance and special projects at ITBC.

Sally was born in Hong Kong and has resided in Greater Vancouver since 1993. Sally is dedicated to financial accounting, with four years of work experience in the public practice and over twelve years of accounting experience in the hospitality industry. Sally supports the protection and promotion of Indigenous cultures.

(Kristina) Monica Guerra is a seasoned communications professional with over a decade of experience in public relations, communications strategy, marketing, and business development across the Philippines, Singapore, and Vancouver.

Caroline comes from the Ahousaht Nation and Katzie Nation, Caroline has immersed herself in the realm of Indigenous tourism management and operation since 2009.

London was born in Winnipeg and grew up in Vancouver. She has experience developing small businesses, relationship-based sales and educational outreach. 

Paisley plays a key role in supporting the organization’s marketing initiatives, specifically the Authentic Indigenous program.

Gail Joe is a member of the Lower Nicola Indian Band, Nlaka'pamux Nation. With more than 30 years of experience in Indigenous economic development, Gail worked with all Nations Trust Company for over 21 years providing business loans to Indigenous businesses throughout BC.

Darnell Stager is an Urban Indigenous man, born and raised in Vancouver. He proudly identifies as Ts'msyen from Kitsumkalum and S'tat'imc from Lil'Wat First Nation. Darnell is committed to promoting and sharing Indigenous culture with others and believes a vibrant experience awaits every curious visitor.

Angela is a member of the Dakelh community of Saik'uz First Nation, and was raised in Dawson Creek, BC. Her professional background includes experience in event management, finance, and tourism. Angela is passionate about Indigenous tourism and highlighting the beauty of Indigenous landscapes and cultures in the province of BC.

Jamie worked for a wealth management company for two decades before entering the tourism industry in 2020. A graduate of the Tourism and Professional Development program at Okanagan College, Jamie joined the ITBC team in early 2021, contributing to the team as Indigenous Coordinator, Training and Development, and as Indigenous Tourism Resiliency Program Advisor.

As a proud member of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nations, Wendy has spent two decades in the food and beverage industry, with ten years in managerial roles where she focused on the professional development of her team. In her new role, Wendy will work closely with Indigenous communities, cultural leaders, and tourism businesses to develop and promote unique and authentic Indigenous tourism experiences.

A Vancouver native with Nak'azdli Whut'en (Dene of North BC) roots, Stefanie brings over three years of experience supporting Indigenous communities in health and healing, including her role as Office Manager at the Indian Residential School Survivors Society. As the new Destination Development Coordinator, Stef will support the Regional Indigenous Tourism Specialists and Corporate Services team in the Invest in Iconics Strategy project.

Nicole, a proud Mi’kmaw from the Elsipogtog First Nation in New Brunswick, spent her formative years in Comox, British Columbia. Now, she returns to her passion for tourism, joining us as the Regional Tourism Specialist for Vancouver Island. In this role, Nicole will work closely with Indigenous communities and Indigenous-owned businesses to help develop, promote, and showcase the rich cultural and natural beauty of the Island.

A proud member of the Secwepemc (Shuswap-Salish Tribe) from Esk’etemc, Christine carries the traditional name T.seseleĺckn, bestowed upon her by the Matriarchs of her community. With over 12 years of experience in First Nations governance and administration, Christine brings a deep understanding of complex engagement and community outreach. As the Regional Indigenous Tourism Specialist for the Kootenay Rockies, she will support First Nations communities and Indigenous tourism businesses with pathfinding and destination development initiatives.

Rocky, a proud member of the Beaver First Nation, brings over 30 years of expertise in hospitality and tourism. As the Regional Indigenous Tourism Specialist for the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast, Rocky aims to enhance the value of Indigenous tourism. Known for his love of nature and often spotted with a camera, Rocky finds deep connections with the land, nurturing his respect for the world we all call home.

Sy-Lynn Bell, a valued member of the Haida Nation, has over 15 years of experience in tourism and hospitality and an additional four years in community economic development. Sy-Lynn brings a wealth of knowledge and dedication to her role.