I am very pleased to have the opportunity to set up Skwah First Nation’s First Adult Education Centre. I have developed similar programs in Mission School District, Gold Trail School District, and at Seabird Island Band. My education includes a Bachelor of Arts and Teacher Training from Simon Fraser University and a Master of Arts in Education from the University of British Columbia. Most of my career has been spent working with students, of all ages, who require alternate pathways to success, and they are my passion. 

Gerry is a multi-award-winning Indigenous Chef, Educator, Business Consultant, Mentor and Public Speaker working in Social Enterprise. He is a 60’s Scoop child and member of Dokis First Nation (Anishinaabe).  Having “dropped out” of High School in the 70’s and struggling with addiction, Gerry went on to attain degrees in Business, Planning, Culinary Arts/Hospitality and Education. A graduate of the renowned Stratford Chef School, he has worked alongside many world-famous Chefs, led 5-Star Country House Hotels, and garnered many industry awards.  As a former “troubled youth” turned professor and now Program Director and Instructor for the Sqwá Education Culinary Program, Gerry has spent many years working with and mentoring young people across Canada.  His vision for First Nations is “strength through education, qualified by traditional values”.  Today, Gerry builds community through food, drink, hospitality, and teaching.

Greetings, I'm Shaun Beveridge, the dedicated Chilliwack District school Teacher overseeing Adult Upgrading Courses at Sqwá Adult Education Centre. I live work and play  on the ancestral territories of the Stó:lō unceded traditional territories of the Sqwá, Pilat, Sema:th and Ts'elxwéyeqw tribes. I bring over five years of teaching experience from both Toronto and Calgary to Chilliwack. My teaching philosophy revolves around nurturing student success by tailoring education to individual needs and abilities. I'm passionate about collaborating with students to unlock their full potential and am excited to contribute to the educational journey of individuals here at Sqwá Adult Education Centre, providing valuable adult education opportunities to this vibrant community.

My name is Lianne Paul. I'm the Office Administrator for Sqwá Adult Education Center. I reside on the traditional ancestral and unceded territory of the Sto:lo Coast Salish peoples. I have over 20 years of experience working in various government agencies; Ministry of Forests, Ministry of Children & Family Development - Aboriginal Services, and BC Assessment to name a few. I feel good about helping people to the best of my ability. I am excited to be here to support you on your journey. Whether it is supporting you through the enrolment process or your wellbeing, I am here for you.