Board of Directors

Originally from Jamaica, Brian served in the Jamaica Defence Force, where he helped establish the Caribbean Military Academy School of Aviation—the first of its kind in the English-speaking Caribbean. Since moving to Canada in 2010, he has continued his career in aviation as a flight instructor and training program manager. Brian's travels and community involvement have deepened his interest in how personal stories shape identity and connection. A devoted reader of first-person narratives, he is passionate about creating space for diverse voices and proudly supports StoryBridge’s mission to build belonging through storytelling.

SJ’s approach to leadership is grounded in community care, accessibility, and creativity. With deep experience supporting seniors, neurodivergent individuals, and arts-based community initiatives, she brings an intergenerational and inclusive perspective to our board. As a storyteller, musician, and operations strategist, SJ is committed to making space for people to be fully themselves—and to feel supported in sharing their truths however they choose to express them.

Monique is the Newcomer Services Coordinator for the Winnipeg School Division. With over 15 years of experience in newcomer settlement, education, and program development, she brings a holistic and compassionate lens to our leadership. Her work has focused on supporting school transitions, youth leadership, and community inclusion for immigrants and refugees. As both an educator and artist, Monique understands the importance of belonging, creativity, and culturally responsive care. Her leadership helps ensure our programs meet the diverse needs of newcomers with empathy and impact.

Rachel is a multi-disciplinary artist and educator whose work bridges the worlds of performance and personal development. She brings expertise in storytelling, acting, and public speaking, offering tools that help our participants build confidence and stage presence. Her work as a coach and consultant helps strengthen our ability to deliver trauma-informed, expressive arts programming that is both empowering and skill-building. With Rachel’s guidance, StoryBridge remains a space where creative transformation becomes a path to self-expression and connection.

Lisa Houtkooper is a registered nurse with over 30 years of healthcare experience, currently working at the Occupational Health Centre in Winnipeg. She holds a Master of Nursing and a certificate in leadership development from Mediation Services. Passionate about fostering psychologically safe workplaces and supporting equity-deserving communities, Lisa focuses on building the capacity of workers, workplaces, and communities to promote health, dignity, and safety. As a workplace mindfulness facilitator and de-escalation trainer, she brings deep compassion and insight to her work and is proud to contribute to StoryBridge’s mission of healing and connection through storytelling.

Patlee is a lived experience storyteller, mindfulness facilitator, researcher, writer, non-profit strategist, and social entrepreneur. With a PhD in Peace and Conflict Studies, her work centers narrative, identity, and transformation—particularly for people navigating transitions, conflict, migration, burnout, or recovery. Patlee co-founded StoryBridge to offer the kind of support that’s often missing: a space where lived experience becomes a source of power and community, not shame or silence. Her leadership ensures that StoryBridge stays rooted in compassion, innovation, and impact.

A member bio will appear here once he/she/they are appointed. Consider joining the StoryBridge Board of Directors. Use the Apply Now button below to email your letter of interest.

A member bio will appear here once he/she/they are appointed. Consider joining the StoryBridge Board of Directors. Use the Apply Now button below to email your letter of interest.