Meet the Team Behind Every International Student Success Story

Behind every incredible student journey, regional excursion, and warm homestay experience in Campbell River is a team dedicated to supporting the next generation of global citizens. We are here to guide them through every step of their Canadian adventure, to ensure they have the best possible experience in Canada and leave with the feeling of a truly successful year abroad!

Meet Mercedes – Manager of International Student Programs

"I have the privilege of supporting international students as they embark on an exciting educational and cultural journey. By working closely with our International Program staff, schools, and the broader community, I help create a welcoming environment where students can grow, succeed, and feel a true sense of belonging. As the custodian for students and a trusted resource, I am dedicated to ensuring students are safe, supported, and cared for every step of the way while with us in Campbell River.

What I love most about my work is seeing the impact our international students have on everyone around them. From a distance, I witness the meaningful connections they build with their classmates, teachers, homestay families, and the broader community, and I see how those relationships enrich all of us. I also have the privilege of watching our students grow throughout their journey; the confidence, resilience, independence, and global perspective they gain become a lasting part of who they are, and knowing I play a role in that transformation is incredibly rewarding."

• Summer Highlight: "A mountain biking trip to Golden, BC, with a group of close friends. Spending time on the trails, challenging ourselves, and taking in the incredible mountain scenery was the perfect combination of adventure and connection. Spending time in the Rocky Mountains was both rejuvenating and inspiring, offering a chance to slow down, reflect, and be grateful for the privilege of living in such an incredible part of the world."

Meet Rhonda – Student & Homestay Advisor

"My role is to support students and hosts in their transition to becoming adapted and connected to each other—everything from understanding who they are from their application until student departure from the program, and everything in between. I consider myself a relationship, communication, and adaptation coach whose goal is to support everyone to have the best possible experience.

I really love this work because it puts me in direct contact with very unique and wonderful people. The trust they have in me allows me to customize their coaching in the best possible way to support the unique relationship they are developing. It is so rewarding to observe the progress in connection in our students and hosts!"

• Summer Highlight: "The time I spend in the mountains and on the lakes of this beautiful island. I completed the Auger Point Traverse, a multi-day backpack route, in a 15-hour run. Although not my fastest time, it was really special as I have come back from a string of injuries which left me unsure of being able to run that distance. Our family camping and canoe trip was also a highlight; with my sons being young adults, it is not easy getting together to camp, so I cherish our time out on Mohun Lake this summer!"

Meet Kim – Academic Advisor & ESL Educator

"I am the Academic Advisor for Campbell River International Student Programs. I support international students throughout their time in our schools, helping them choose courses, set academic goals, and plan for their future after high school. I also teach a small-group afterschool ESL class for students who want to improve their English language skills and build confidence in speaking and communicating.

What I love most about my work is getting to know students from around the world and helping them discover their strengths, interests, and future possibilities. It’s incredibly rewarding to watch them grow in confidence and achieve their goals."

• Summer Highlight: "Travelling to Lake Atitlán, Guatemala, where I completed my Yoga Teacher Training certification. It was a life-changing experience and I’m excited to share this new skill with others and support wellness and balance within my community."

Meet Karen – Administrative Assistant

"My role is to provide support in all areas of the International Student Program. I am behind the scenes working alongside this amazing team, processing student applications and communicating with students, agents, schools, and host families. I am here to support students throughout their entire journey, helping them make the most of their experience.

I love welcoming our students to our community. They bring the world to Canadian students; there is such beauty in diversity. I am always inspired by the courage of our international students as they leave their home country to begin this incredible journey. I also have great admiration for their parents, whose trust and support make this life-changing opportunity possible."

• Summer Highlight: "Summer vacation was a lovely opportunity to slow down and enjoy Campbell River. Highlights include paddleboarding at McIvor Lake, beach days with our dogs, exploring the area on our boat, and spending time with our adult children."

Ready for Another Unforgettable Year

Our team shares the same deep connection to Vancouver Island that we love passing along to our students. We are so excited to welcome our new and returning international students to Campbell River for another year of new experiences and West Coast adventures!