Carissa Block – II

My first home was on a boat anchored in the waters of the Taíno people (St. John, USVI), but I spent most of my childhood on the lands and waters of the Suquamish people (Bainbridge Island, WA). After high school I moved north to xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) territory in 2014 to study at UBC. I, a settler of mixed European ancestry, am a sister, daughter, stepdaughter, niece, granddaughter and friend. My biological and chosen families have shaped who I am today, encouraging me to value; learning, curiosity, silliness, friendship and meaningful work.

I completed my undergrad in International Relations and Political Science in 2019, beginning my first staff position at the university in 2020 and transitioning to the II Team in January 2022 as an educational programs coordinator. In addition to back-end support for various projects, I also co-lead the II Learning Community and support units with Indigenous Strategic Plan Toolkit engagement. I am currently working towards a Master’s degree in Disaster and Emergency Management.