Dionne Paul (Ximik) is a proud member of the Nuxalk Nation and the Sechelt Nation. She is from the Eagle clan and her Indian name “Ximik” is translated as “the first eyelash of sunlight that comes over the mountain to greet everyone in the morning”. Dionne is a graduate of Emily Carr Institute of Art and Design with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree majoring in painting. She is a member of the Salish weaving guild and has had the exceptional opportunity to work with Lawrence Paul (Yuxweluptun) as an apprentice and studio assistant. Her work incorporates many native plants and natural dyes created through time-honored processes. Her artwork can be seen at various locations including the Sunshine Coast Art Gallery and Tsain-Ko Native Gift Shop. Dionne shares her inspiration for art and culture as a cultural guide with Talaysay Tours. 140
Deanna Lewis (Kalkalath) is a proud member of the Cheakamus Village located in the Squamish Valley. Her Indian name “Kalkalath” means “big women from the mountains” and she comes from a long line of “Lewis’. Deanna expresses her love for family, sports and culture in everything she does and was inspired by her late grandfather, Norman Lewis to live a Squamish way of life – “one must live life to the fullest, love what you do and make a difference to others”. Working many years in the recreational tourism industry Deanna strives to build cross-cultural understanding with other Cultures and brings her passion for this to share with Talaysay clients. We are thrilled to have Deanna on our Talaysay team. 119
Fran Nahanee (X`atxamat) has a vibrant ancestral background that includes Squamish/Cowichan and Hawaiian relatives. Fran owns and operates the Tsain-Ko Native Gift Shop located next to Shishalh Nation Museum and Raven’s Cry Theatre in the Shishalh Nation complex. Her hobby includes Coast Salish style weaving using traditional materials and she is well known for her Cowichan knitting. Fran is a descendant of respected healers re-known for their knowledge of plants and medicine and she passionately shares her knowledge of native flora and fauna that has been passed down to her through the women in her life. Talaysay is honored to have Fran Nahanee as the cultural guide for the Talking Trees tour and grateful to Fran for making herself available to share her knowledge. 124
Darnell Paul (S-kw’e`tu`) is a proud member of the Shishalh Nation and was born into the Frog clan and has ancestral connections to the Boston Bar First Nations. His Indian name “s-kw’e`tu`” literally means, “Raven”. Darnell completed the Hooksum Outdoor Leadership program in May 2005 and recently completed his Wilderness Leadership training with Capilano University in Squamish this year. He has a passion for everything outdoors and in particularly enjoys working with Shishalh youth and other enthusiasts who share his passion for the outdoors. He is currently learning more about weaving, drumming and singing and is an active member of the Xwamstut Dance group. Darnell is valuable member of the Talaysay team particularly on our First Nations Interpretive Paddle extended tours that take us into the wilderness area of Kunechin Point and other remote locations. 135