Rosalin Miles

Rosalin Miles

Dr. Rosalin Miles, MHK 1998, Research Associate, Indigenous Studies in UBC School of Kinesiology.

Dr. Rosalin Miles models traditional Indigenous practices of health and wellbeing for herself, her family, her students and her community. She states, “The pandemic can provide us with opportunities to promote spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical health and wellness. Even though there is a need for social distancing, this pandemic has brought people together.”

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It has been a very stressful time for many UBC students to adjust to the changes that have resulted from the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Rosalin Miles of Indigenous Studies in Kinesiology (ISK) has been reaching out to share resources and support to the many ISK students and community members by phone, zoom, and skype. “Thankfully,” says Dr. Miles, “the ISK was set up for students to take courses online; however, the community experiential learning components of the program have come to a screeching halt. In this regard, it has been more challenging to support each student.” Dr. Miles states, “I hope that they can find perseverance within their circle of support of family and friends.”

During this challenging time, Dr. Miles advocates for the importance of practicing holistic health and wellness. For spiritual health and wellness, she is providing support to Elders and community members through phone calls, Facetime and messaging. Through these relationships she is able to practice prayer and connections with her community which, in turn, reinforces gratitude and resilience.

For emotional holistic health and wellness support, Dr. Miles has turned to her own family. She lives with her husband and their five-year-old daughter on the traditional territory of the Musqueam people – on the reserve adjacent to the UBC Vancouver campus. As a safety measure, the Musqueam community has placed blockades on the main roads entering the community during the COVID-19 outbreak to ensure that there is protection for their community from the virus, and to promote social distancing on the roads.

Once the ISK research laboratory was closed down and her daughter’s school was halted, Rosalin reached out to her mother for support who moved in with her family to help provide home-schooling for her granddaughter. Rosalin reflects, “I feel extremely fortunate to have my mother here for my daughter, as this also allows me to continue to work from home.” She and her mother maintain a practice of gratitude each day which she says, reinforces her own role as a mother and allows her to acknowledge the values she has created; those of fostering unconditional love and support.

Dr. Miles is a registered Kinesiologist who knows the value of being physically active for holistic health and wellness. Each day, when her young daughter has completed homeschool lessons, Dr. Miles is physically active with her daughter to ensure they both feel grounded, whether it be playing in the backyard, going for a bike ride – or playing with their new puppy! Being active together supports their relationship in a fun way where they can both build on their connection together.

Dr. Miles also works with her community and volunteers on the Lytton First Nation Finance committee. She has been able to support them by writing emergency response policies and providing other needed supports. She will be driving to Lytton to deliver emergency supplies and much-needed seeds to support community farming. Aware of the dangers of driving into a rural community, Dr. Miles will leave all items she brings up to Lytton in a garage for 3 days, wipe them down, and maintain social distancing.

It has been difficult not to visit with her Musqueam neighbours but she states, “I know that the social distancing is mandatory. Should COVID-19 ever manifest in the community it would be catastrophic for the Elders and for the valuable knowledge and contributions they hold for the community.”

Dr. Rosalin Miles is a member of Lytton First Nation and works within UBC Indigenous Studies in Kinesiology as a Research Associate.

Indigenous Studies in Kinesiology Event Cancellations due to COVID-19


Indigenous Studies in Kinesiology, COVID-19 Update:

Dr. Miles, Associate Researcher in the Indigenous Studies of Kinesiology program, is the founder and volunteer Executive Director of the Indigenous Physical Activity and Cultural Circle (IPACC), which runs the annual Active Spirit 2km and 5km walk and run.

Due to the pandemic, IPACC has made the difficult decision to postpone this event, which is normally hosted with the Musqueam community and to which all UBC students, faculty and staff are invited. However, IPACC plans to host the event 4 weeks after the pandemic is over. For more information please contact IPACC

We are also sorry to announce that the National Indigenous Physical Activity & Wellness Conference scheduled for May 2 & 3, 2020 has also been postponed and is now scheduled to take place on May 1 & 2, 2021. Dr. Miles is extremely thankful to all involved community members who have been supportive and understanding throughout these difficult decisions.

Due to her work with IPACC, Dr. Rosalin Miles has been nominated for the YWCA Women of Distinction awards. We encourage you to vote online for Dr. Miles to receive the Connecting Community award by April 24. 2020.

ShareToCare – A story of humanity, compassion and hope

In response to COVID19, graduating Kinesiology students, Sunwon Jessica Kim, Paniz Shirkhanlou, and Cierrah DiCesare are demonstrating the KIN spirit of service to others. They are true Kin Community Champions who are walking the talk by rolling up their sleeves and assisting a particularly vulnerable, and often invisible community – that of women and children who are victims of domestic violence. The three KIN students began a volunteer donation drive under the name, Share to Care, to gather Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for non-profit shelters for women and children. The women’s shelters they are supporting include the Downtown Eastside Women’s Centre, the Nova Transition House, and BC Women’s Health Foundation.

“These organizations are at high risk for community infections and their needs for PPE are critical since they are subject to high traffic in confined areas. Social distancing is crucial at this time; however, staying home is not possible for women and children who experience domestic violence and harsh conditions. Families seeking a safe place need to be protected not only from the violence but also from the pandemic. As the shelters are still fully operational and providing full meal services, they are in dire need of PPE supplies to keep their staff and the women and children they serve safe. However, shelters are often overlooked when help is needed since they often remain out of the public eye,” explains @SharetoCare founder, Sunwon Jessica Kim.

The list of items required includes masks, gloves, hand sanitizer, and sanitizing wipes. Due to the rapidly evolving circumstances with COVID-19, ShareToCare has quickly expanded to promote both cloth masks and monetary donations to meet its affiliated organizations’ needs. Paniz Shirkhanlou, states that many of their “donations are coming from generous health care professionals, primarily dentists.”

Our mission is to advocate for, and support those experiencing double disadvantages during this outbreak. Women and children who are unable to maintain self-isolation or quarantine in their own homes due to violence or safety threats should not worry about their health and safety once they are in a shelter’s care.

If you are interested in donating to this worthy group please contact: sharetocaresunwonjessicakim@gmail.com

ShareToCare Instagram Page
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Sunwon Jessica Kim, 4th Year Kinesiology Student, Interdisciplinary stream.

Sunwon Jessica Kim is a 4th-year Kinesiology student graduating this May, and is the person who built the SharetoCare team. Sunwon is also a Certified Dental Assistant who will be applying to the UBC DMD program upon graduation.

Sunwon demonstrates leadership and service to the community. She says “as a student of human health and a healthcare professional who believes and understands the importance of preventive measures, I wanted to help prevent/minimize the community spread of COVID-19.

In addition to ShareToCare, Sunwon has gone even further in her service to the community at this time by volunteering at the Vancouver Aboriginal Health Society (VAHS)’s dental clinic to help serve emergency patients as a CDA during the pandemic. She explains, “because most dental practices are closed or have limited their operations at this time, the VAHS’s dental clinic is organizing the details of its operation for dental emergencies with the British Columbia Dental Association (BCDA). Since the N95 mask fit test with the VAHS’ dental team on April 10, I am ready to jump in to alleviate dental emergencies during COVID-19.

Sunwon adds, “It is my belief that humanity needs to be respected especially during times like this. And, I am enormously grateful for my journey at UBC School of Kinesiology where I further cultivated such important values through academics and diverse peer interactions.”
Upon graduation, Sunwon will be applying to the UBC DMD program.
 
 

Paniz Shirkhanlou, 4th Year Kinesiology Student, Interdisciplinary stream.

Paniz is a 4th-year Kinesiology student and is an American PFTA personal trainer. Volunteering in several different hospitals, senior care centers, and clinics since high school has taught her that “small contributions to our communities can result in meaningful changes. Thus, I’m a firm believer in thinking globally but acting locally. In today’s world, COVID 19 is a global issue; however, I believe every individual has the power to help the pandemic by taking modest steps towards supporting the neighboring community.” Paniz intends to apply for UBC DMD program upon our graduation.
 
 
 
 

Cierrah DiCesare, 4th Year Kinesiology Student, Interdisciplinary stream.

Cierra is graduating with her BKin in May. When she’s not studying or raising funds she is volunteering in local physiotherapy clinics and hospitals, and playing soccer matches. She has her eyes set on competing in the Great Canadian Bake Off some day! But her immediate plans are to do her masters in public health upon graduating from Kinesiology.

She states, “as we all move forward, developing our new ‘normals’ and reevaluating our life plans, we also have a chance to come together globally, in a way that is unprecedented in this generation. We are living history right now; I want it to be a story of humanity, compassion and hope. That is why I am honoured to be a part of ShareToCare, and proud to have these fellow “kinners” as my friends. It speaks to the kind of community collaboration UBC is known for.”

Active Kids launches new virtual intro to gymnastics classes for 4 to 6-year olds on April 29

Active Kids launches new virtual intro to gymnastics classes for 4 to 6-year olds on April 29th. Click here to join the live stream.

We are currently planning future sessions and would like your feedback.
Please complete this short survey so we can offer classes based on your preferred activities and schedules.

These online gymnastics classes are being presented in partnership with UBC Camps as part of their Play and Learn Live initiative!

Averill, Michael

Michael Averill, BHK 2006, Musician.

Michael Averill is a KIN Community Champion utilizing his creativity to bring us together in community and lift us up to help us overcome the challenges of social isolation during COVID-19. He shows leadership and service by offering free, live online performances/jam sessions for all.   

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Michael is a BHK 2006 alumnus and a well-known, beloved local performer and community animator who gives voice to many people through his music. He performs regularly at various venues across the lower mainland and across the country.

Since the COVID outbreak, Michael has demonstrated his creative and supportive spirit by transitioning his concerts to the virtual world. During this time of isolation, he is providing free, online live performances and communal jam sessions to which all are invited. We commend Michael as a KIN Community Champion for connecting people and lifting spirits through his music.

“People have told me it is really nice to have something uplifting, fun, and light to look forward to in the week. I have loved seeing so many artist friends doing the same thing as well. Everyone finds their unique way of providing a special music-based refuge/recharge for their audiences, which is very welcome amidst the constant intensity of our current situation.

Music is so important to all of us in our daily lives. But I think given everything that’s happening right now, its value has become immeasurable for lifting spirits, and inspiring hope for a better tomorrow. We’re stronger together, and music is one of the glues that gives us a place to collect and build each other up.”

You can find out about Michael’s upcoming online concerts here.

Competition for 2019-2020 KIN Scholarships, Awards & Prizes is now open

Information regarding eligibility criteria, application process and available scholarships, awards and prizes is now available here.

Additional questions may be emailed to kin.scholarships.awards@ubc.ca

The deadline date for application online is Wednesday, May 27th, 2020 at 11:59pm. Get started on your application and reference letters today, and good luck to all applicants!

Congratulations to Mikayla Ogrodniczuk for receiving the Buzz More Leadership Award and Kay Brearley Service Award

The School congratulates Mikayla, Assistant Captain of the Women’s Varsity Hockey team for being awarded the Buzz More Leadership Award and the Kay Brearley Service Award. The Buzz Leadership Award represents peer recognition for outstanding qualities and achievements in individuals, and the Kay Brearley Award recognizes exceptional service to the Women’s Athletic program.

Mikayla Ogrodniczuk is set to graduate Spring 2020 with a degree in Kinesiology in the Health Sciences stream. She has enjoyed being a part of the Kin community, expressing that she “truly appreciates having had the opportunity to learn at the top-ranked KIN program in the country!” During her time in KIN, Mikayla was a member of the UBC Women’s Varsity Hockey team, serving as Assistant Captain for the past two years.

“Being a varsity athlete has added tremendous value to my studies in Kin. I was able to apply what I learned in the classroom on a daily basis to my athletic life, and it provided me with a better understanding of the importance of nutrition, and the reasons behind the training sessions we completed.

There are many student-athletes in the School, and this provided an opportunity for us to connect through our love of sport. As a member of the Women’s Hockey team, we were required to travel a significant amount for away games; with our close-knit KIN community and supportive faculty, I knew that many of my classmates understood the challenges of missing school for competition – always willing to lend a helping hand. Most importantly, being a varsity athlete continuously challenged my ability to manage a full course load, training, competition, travel, and personal life. Time management is crucial in successfully managing the demands of varsity athletics, and I know the skills I developed studying Kinesiology while competing as a UBC Thunderbird will continue to help me navigate the demands of my future studies. The value I gained as a varsity athlete while studying at UBC is difficult to put into words. Competing as a UBC Thunderbird while studying in the School of Kinesiology was a dream I feel extremely grateful to have lived-out. I was immersed in two incredibly supportive communities, both of which aimed to educate and develop the next leaders in the academic and athletic worlds.”

Mikayla’s involvement in UBC Athletics inspired her to co-found the UBC Athlete’s Hub, Canada’s first mental health resource targeted at student athletes. This unique online resource focuses on increasing awareness of mental health issues, reducing stigma, and promoting coping skills and help-seeking among student-athletes. While completing her degree, Mikayla was a part of the UBC Interprofessional Health Mentors Program which aims to foster collaboration between healthcare trainees from different disciplines. Mikayla was one of 10 KIN students in her class to participate in this 3-term program.

This year, Mikayla was a part of the inaugural Campus Kinnections program, a student mentorship program that pairs senior kinesiology students with incoming students for a year-long partnership. Mikayla is looking forward to returning to work as an Undergraduate Research Assistant at the Aging, Mobility, and Cognitive Neuroscience Lab this summer where she gets to combine her love for physical activity with academic research. Upon completion of her degree this spring, Mikayla will continue her studies at UBC in the Master of Physical Therapy program in September.

 

Amit Sekhon

Amit Sekhon, 5th year Kinesiology, Interdisciplinary Stream.

Amit demonstrates true altruism. Recognizing the need for healthy coping habits during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, he took the initiative to provide free online home workouts for people to follow.

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When the COVID-19 pandemic shut down our communities, I began to notice that friends and family felt like they could not exercise due to the closure of their local gyms. This behaviour was coupled with other negative coping habits, such as eating unhealthy foods and excessive consumption of alcohol in order to deal with the stress of our current situation. I was able to show some of my family how they could still exercise without having a gym to go to by creating a home workout program for them. Many friends began asking for workouts as well, so I teamed up with fellow UBC Kin student Michael Fan (4th year Kin) to create a digital platform where we could post home workouts for people to follow.

We have just launched the Instagram page “@isolationworkout”, where we aim to provide at least 3 home workouts a week for people in the community to follow. The goal of this page is to provide an exercise resource library on an easily accessible social media platform. We are trying to keep the equipment used to a minimum, as we understand that the general population does not have equipment at home.

I have also been volunteering with the BC Brain Wellness Program exercise group, which aims to provide wellness support programs for individuals living with brain disorders. With facilities being shut down, I continue to volunteer in exercise classes through online Zoom classes three times a week. I am also creating instructional exercise videos that are sent to participants in the program so they can access exercises made specifically for them from home and keep a sense of normalcy in their lives.

Shaena Randles

Shaena Randles, 4th year Kinesiology, Interdisciplinary Stream.

Shaena went above and beyond to adapt core facilitation skills for PASS, and devised a novel, virtual study session. She was able to quickly transition an engaging learning system online in order to help other students’ academic success. In a time where social isolation is mandatory, she made sure that fellow students didn’t miss this learning opportunity.

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I have served as a PASS leader for the past two years. The PASS leader role combines my fascination with physiology and anatomy with my ambition to connect meaningfully with others, especially in a learning environment. This has motivated me throughout my journey as a PASS leader and continues to motivate me during this globally pressing time of the Corona Virus (COVID-19).

I feel extremely grateful for the online resources available today that allow me to continue working despite our emergency response to Covid-19. Still, moving my PASS sessions to the Collaborative Ultra online platform has proven to be a challenging transition. So far, I have found my success by adapting the core facilitation skills that I have developed with my team to the novel, virtual classroom. The essence of PASS is that it gives students the opportunity to promote each other’s learning through interaction and collective knowledge. In a time where social isolation is mandatory, students might miss this learning opportunity if not for the online transition that our team has committed to. At this early stage of the process, I feel excited about the positive response that our online PASS sessions have received from the first-year students. In fact, more students logged in for the first online session than I have seen at my most recent in-person sessions. With final exams in sight, it is truly inspiring that these students continue to prioritize their learning despite the dramatic shift in lifestyle and community health that Covid-19 has provoked.

Sam Vila

Sam Vila, 4th year Kinesiology, Health Science Stream.

Sam’s passion for anatomy and physiology led him to volunteer for the Peer Assisted Study Sessions (PASS) to help other students practice the skills necessary for success. When COVID-19 hit, he worked quickly to innovate and bring PASS to an online system to ensure continued support and success amongst his peers.

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My name is Sam Vila, I’ve been a PASS leader for the past two years and have loved every step of the way. I have always had a passion for anatomy and physiology and after learning about PASS, I thought giving back to my cohort, hopefully instilling that same passion in a few students would be more than worthwhile. It has been such a great experience meeting, and working alongside, some incredible people in the Kinesiology department while honing my skills as a facilitator.

The COVID crisis has required that we all work remotely and so Shaena Randles and I have worked quickly to ensure that students could still receive coaching via a move to a new online system. Learning about, and applying, the many tools of the online platform was a new challenge but I enjoyed designing the session to take advantage of each tool. The chat function is my favorite because I think students are much more willing to contribute when they don’t have to physically raise their hand and speak; the barrier to participate is a lot lower.

Now that we’re over the initial change things are running pretty smoothly. I’ve learned that working with humor and understanding to help combat social isolation during this time and has worked well to get us all feeling more comfortable with the new platform. One thing I miss is having the student community physically in front of me, as the feedback I get is much more visceral and immediate. Stay healthy!