Westbank First Nation has a new voice.
On Feb. 20, Mandi Carroll began her new job as communications officer for WFN. She said that the first three weeks have been focused on getting to know her new community.
“(I’ve been) just making my way around, meeting with the different departments, community groups and the school and daycare,” said Carroll.
“I’m just trying to build some of those relationships. Being new to the Okanagan, I felt that was especially important so that people start to know who I am and know I’m available to support them.”
Communications is nothing new for Carroll. She spent the last 10 years working in municipal communications roles while living in Calgary and Red Deer.
She said she has already noticed similarities between the areas.
“There are similarities in the growth and the importance of the highway corridor, but WFN definitely has (its) own unique needs.”
She said her challenge will be to make sure she delivers “consistent, progressive and proactive type messages.”
“WFN has much to be proud of and I look forward to promoting those good news stories locally and beyond.”
Over the past year, WFN has been a part of several controversial news stories including its proposed land swap with the province and its role with the Westside Road Interchange Project.
When asked how she will jump into the task of speaking about these issues, Carroll said, “I think (by) doing the research on what has been communicated and building a strategy for communications going forward.”
WFN Chief Robert Louie said he felt that Carroll was up to the task.
“Mandi is equipped to manage all aspects of media relations,” said Louie.
wpaterson@kelownacapnews.com
