Meet Our Staff

Having served as a Settlement Worker in the Golden CBAL office for the past six years, I’m excited by the opportunity to contribute to CBAL’s newest initiative, EKZIP. I am honoured to support the ongoing development of welcoming, inclusive communities.

With a strong foundation in community development and settlement services, I bring both passion and practical experience to this role. My background includes over a decade as Community Liaison with Columbia Basin Trust, where I coordinated initiatives in Valemont through Kimberley, engaging municipalities, employers, and community groups to address local needs. In addition, my tenure as Director of Community Programs at the YWCA of Banff involved leading diverse initiatives ranging from counselling to community education.

Whether coordinating advisory groups, organizing inclusive events, or building partnerships across sectors, I will work to ensure every voice is heard – including those of newcomers. My approach centers on accessibility, cultural safety, and creating spaces where shared experiences spark meaningful action.

I can be reached at ekzip@cbal.org.

Growing up in a German-Estonian family on Treaty Seven territory between Calgary, the Bow Valley, and Bergen, I’ve always believed its important for the communities I’ve lived in to be places where everyone feels like they belong.

Over the last fifteen years, I’ve been moving around the Rockies, sharing community stories and programs, supporting local artists, and working on fundraising projects.

Now based out of Cranbrook, I support regional health care and help students at College of the Rockies start their career paths.

Whether you’re planning to be here for a short time or a long time, I want the East Kootenay to be a place where people feel safe, welcomed, and included. I’m looking forward to being a part of this work.

I can be reached at swackerle@cbal.org.