Winter 2023

December 15, 2023

Happy holidays from the West Coast N.E.S.T. team! As we approach the end of the year, we can feel the change in the season. The air is filled with the sweet melodies of festive tunes, the scent of cinnamon and evergreen, and the promise of togetherness. In the midst of the holiday hustle and bustle, we would like to take a moment to express our gratitude to each of you who joined us this year for place-based educational opportunities, from our Youth Career Exploration event to our West Coast Fibre Art Retreat. May this festive season bring you peace, love, and moments that become cherished memories.

We look forward to seeing you in the New Year!

A Gift That Keeps on Giving

Do you want to give back to the place you love visiting? Are you looking for a great gift idea? Give local this holiday season with the Clayoquot Biosphere Trust's Holiday Giving Catalogue and support great work happening in the region! This online holiday crowdfunding campaign helps raise money for local charities. Support transformative learning experiences on the West Coast by donating to some of our local partners taking part in the initiative!

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Interpretation Skills Workshop

We were grateful to receive Tourism Relief funding earlier this year to host Interpretation Skills Workshops this past spring and fall for youth in the region. Twenty-two participants (grades 9-12) joined us to develop their communication and interpretation skills inspired by their interests and passions. Led by experienced local Interpreters, the youth had the opportunity to see how their passion could lead to a fulfilling career. We hope to be able to offer similar experiences in the future, stay tuned for more details!

Youth-Career-Exploration-Camp-West-Coast-NEST-Tofino

Ongoing Learning Opportunities

Looking for opportunities to learn during the darker days of the year? Have some extra time to dive into fascinating topics during the holidays? Be sure to browse our partner's ongoing courses on our website! Explore a diverse range of subjects at your convenience as many are offered online. Learn about wildlife coexistence, weather, and navigation for sea kayakers and boaters, how to best grow food on the West Coast, and much more!

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Fist Aid Courses Certification in Tofino Swell Tofino

Get your First Aid certifications with Swell Tofino!

Do you need to update your First Aid certifications for your work or would you like to sharpen your knowledge? Swell Tofino is offering Occupational First Aid Level 1 and Marine Basic First Aid courses during the winter and spring of 2024. Don't wait, secure your spot today!

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Tofino Clayoquot Heritage Museum West Coast History

Visit the Tofino Clayoquot Heritage Museum this winter!

Learn about the fascinating history of the region and discover their current Tonquin exhibit. Tonquin is a familiar word in Tofino, though few know its origins. Be sure to visit the Museum to dive into some of the details of what led to the Tonquin ship exploding.

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Sea Kayak Instruction and Leadership System (SKILS) Courses on the West Coast

Ready to take your paddling skills to the next level?

SKILS's calendar is packed again with a variety of educational kayaking courses in Clayoquot and Barkley Sounds starting next spring! With multiple certification options, from weekend courses to multi-day trips, you're sure to find an option suited to your individual paddling goals.

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West Coast Fibre Art Retreat West Coast NEST UkeeKnits

2023 West Coast Fibre Art Retreat

Our sixth annual West Coast Fibre Art Retreat took place at the Black Rock Oceanfront Resort with 31 enthusiastic participants. The retreat offered three days of learning, crafting, and enjoyment. Highlights included Faye Kennington's knitting workshop, Cecelia Smith's beading class, Katrina Stewart's crochet course, and Rose and Brian Wilson's cedar weaving session. A sunny walk on the Wild Pacific Trail, guided by Barb Beasley, offered a refreshing outdoor experience, even welcoming furry participants. The retreat concluded with a delightful evening of shopping, delicious food, and wine. We are already looking forward to next year's retreat. To learn more, read the story on our website for a full recap!