What was young Kez like?

Young(er) Kez was friendly and inquisitive, and interested in the natural world.

What is a story from your childhood that you think shaped the person you are today?

It is a simple lesson I learnt when I was around 8 years old or so. My grandfather used to tell me that if anybody asks for assistance, to recognize that it is a very vulnerable thing to do. That I should help when possible, and not to be critical of the reasons why they may be asking or what they are asking for. The basic lesson is to not assume or make unnecessary judgements when someone is asking for help.

What does peace look like to you?

Peace is a personal and interpersonal process that is constantly changing and taking new forms. It looks different to every person. Peace is not a linear process but perhaps a cyclical one. I believe that maintaining the outcome of peace processes is just as intensive as the process itself.

A peaceful world is one where conflicts and differences are processed through compassion, dialogue and mutual respect. It is the overall balanced state of things from access to resources for life to freedom of self-determination. It is a world where everyone is able to enjoy a fair and satisfactory quality of life. I believe that peace is maintained by people understanding and recognizing the humanity in themselves and others and then moving forward with a sense of togetherness and responsibility to each other. This is an idyllic perspective, for sure.

My own definition for inner peace would be the flexibility to work through challenges and changes. There is a lowered desire to judge others and one acts and treats others with authenticity and not out of fear. Overall, I imagine inner peace to feel like safety, confidence and clarity. 

Why Kahanee? 

Peacebuilding has always been a topic of interest for me, and in exploring that, I have completed a degree in Conflict Resolution Studies at the University of Winnipeg. While I understand theories surrounding peacebuilding, I have not actively taken part in any peace-processes outside of my own personal life. 

When Kahanee was still in its infancy, I was invited to be a part of the board by Somia, who is also my step-mother. Kahanee's honest, equitable and respectful approach to peacebuilding aligned with my own perspective, and I accepted the opportunity. This has been a real privilege. Coming from a background that didn't emphasize story-telling, I have come to appreciate and admire all the lessons, perspectives, pain, joy, and vulnerability that is woven into stories and passed along. Being a part of Kahanee has deepened my understanding around the value of spoken story and peacebuilding processes, and has expanded my own definitions of peace itself. I am very appreciative to be a part of this organization and am continuing to watch, listen and learn, and contribute where I can.

What's something (or a story) that gives you hope or keeps you going?

I think about the simple little exchanges strangers have with each other as they pass by on the sidewalk, on the bus, online, in the workplace, anywhere. While one can chalk it up to politeness or cultural norms, I like to think most people are inherently kind or atleast want to be.