Author

Chehala Leonard, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Chehala Leonard,'s Latest Articles

B.C. health care workers add their names to list calling on closure of work camps during pandemic

A letter written by Wet’suwet’en female chiefs, and backed by the Union of BC Indian Chiefs and more than 400 healthcare workers, calls on the B.C. government to close “man camps” during COVID-19 pandemic.

OKIB COVID-19 cases
Okanagan Indian Band responds as several cases of COVID-19 confirmed in community

OKIB Chief Byron Louis urges people to stay home to flatten the curve.

Robert Riley Saunders bail
Robert Riley Saunders granted bail by judge in Kelowna, BC

The former social worker allegedly stole money from Indigenous youth in government care.

Robert Riley Saunders
Was Robert Riley Saunders your social worker?

We’re scheduling interviews with youth & families impacted by Robert Riley Saunders’ alleged actions.

Robert Riley Saunders court
Youth wants ‘survivors centred’ in media coverage, as Robert Riley Saunders’ criminal case begins

Saunders, accused of stealing thousands from kids in care, appeared by phone in Kelowna court.

Robert Saunders trial
How can we cover Robert Saunders’ upcoming trial in a good way?
alaina tom
‘You can have the birth you dream of,’ says traditional birth keeper

With 20 years of experience Alaina Tom shares insights into her work supporting expecting mothers with home birth.

OKIB primary care clinic
Okanagan Indian Band expands primary care clinic to include doctors

OKIB members now have access to doctors on reserve.

Cultural teachings and birth
‘Spirit saved my life:’ Estelle Carmona opens up about pregnancy, birth and systemic racism

When enduring two complicated births, Carmona says her strong teachings pulled her through.

‘More concerned about gender-based violence than the virus’

Elaine Alec aims to create an online website to provide resources for victims of sexual assault.