Weyt-kp! (hello), My name is Onadee Guadelupe Mckenna, and I was born in the traditional, unceded territories of the Semiahmoo First Nation. From my mother, I am Zapotec from Oaxaca, Mexico. And from my father, I am Secwepemc from Stwecem’c Xget’tem First Nation- which is in The Caribou region in what is referred to as colonially British Columbia. I am currently living and learning in the traditional, unceded territory of the Sylix/ Okanagan peoples while accomplishing my bachelor’s degree at the University of British Columbia.

Water has always been essential in my life, and I am always happiest when travelling
rivers, especially with amazing people and community. A couple of years ago, I was a part of
Bobbi Rose Koe’s first cohort for training Indigenous Youth to become River Guides. Since this experience, I have been learning to guide rivers alongside mentors like Bobbi Rose Koe and river guiding with The Aatse Davie School located in Kwadacha. My favourite times of travelling rivers are eating delicious meals at the riverside, sitting by the campfire with good company, and enjoying the spectacular views. I feel my best self when on the river, and I want to share this feeling I have on the water with many beautiful people.