A Voice in the Wilderness Archive
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2025
2025
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June
Be Yourself – Radically
Read MoreEvery year, the “This I Believe” evening of speeches by graduating students showcases a wide range of topics and emotions as Shawnigan students bare their souls by reading aloud pieces they have written about topics close to their hearts. As part of the English curriculum at Shawnigan, all Grade 12 students prepare essays about a topic of their choice, reflecting in some way on takeaways from their high school experience, and read it to their classmates. The following is Mattias Pollitt’s contribution to this year’s event. -
SOGI’s Promise to Shawnigan Students
Read MoreJune is Pride Month in most of Canada (some jurisdictions celebrate at other times of the year), and Shawnigan marked Pride Week in the first week of June, with several events, including a special Chapel Service with the theme of Belonging. Ms. Erica Hanson was one of the speakers, with a message that included contributions from a pair of students. -
You Belong Here
Read MoreJune is Pride Month in most of Canada (some jurisdictions celebrate at other times of the year), and the first week of June is designated as Pride Week at Shawnigan. At Shawnigan, Pride Week is about making sure every student knows they belong here. The following message about Pride at Shawnigan was adapted from an email sent from Ms. Gemma Atkinson, Associate Director of Annual Giving & Data Management and Copeman’s House Director -
All Quiet on the Dorm Front
Read MoreA lot of things have changed at Shawnigan over the last 109 years, but some things have stayed the same, including expectations of students in boarding houses. Mr. Elliot Logan boarded at Shawnigan as a student and is now a live-in staff member in Copeman’s House, and he reflects here on some of the little things he learned as a student that are still valuable years later. -
May
Tips for Being the Ultimate Boarding School Roommate
Read MoreIf you’re living away from home for the first time, or even if you’re a day student who returns home regularly, you might need to get used to living with someone you’re not related to – a roommate. Ms. Kieran Ward brings her unique perspective as a current Admissions Assistant and former boarding house staff member to this list of tips for how to make the roommate experience great for everyone. -
Never Forget You Are Always a Shawnigan Lake School Graduate
Read MoreMembers of Shawnigan’s largest-ever graduating class celebrated the end of the school year and their respective Shawnigan Journeys in Whistler on May 16 (although there are still a few weeks left of classes). Among those who spoke were the parents of the Co-Heads of School, including Mr. Bogart Ahumada, the proud father of Sebastian. Here is his address to the Class of 2025. -
A Mission to Speak for Those Who Cannot
Read MoreMaria Mohammadi is a Grade 10 student at Shawnigan Lake School whose family left Afghanistan for Turkey and freedom from the Taliban when she was very young. As with alumna Marina Musleh ’24 (Renfrew), Maria has been given the opportunity for a Shawnigan education by Women Leaders of Tomorrow, and she expressed her gratitude and shared her experience in a recent Gathering. -
Compassion, Mindfulness and Peace: A Visit to the Vancouver Buddhist Festival
Read MoreIntroduction by Ms. Pema Yangchen, English Language Centre TeacherOn Sunday, May 4, the eighth Buddhist Festival and the third Buddhist Culture Day celebration took place in Vancouver, BC. This unique festival brings together Buddhist groups and practitioners from around the world, fostering unity and sharing the richness of Dharma propagation experiences. It was founded by Tsengdok Rinpoche, the Master of the Tibetan Buddhist monastery known as Tsengdok Monastery which is based in Vancouver. As the Chair of the BC Buddhist Festival Committee, Tsengdok Rinpoche is the bridge between many Buddhist Communities in Vancouver and more.In the Tibetan language, reincarnated lamas are known by the title “Rinpoche.” The title is a term of respect and reverence, meaning "precious one" in Tibetan. It's used for various individuals,including:• Tulku: reincarnated teachers or high-ranking lamas• Abbots: leaders of monasteries and other religious communities• Teachers who guide long-term retreatants: individuals who are respected for their spiritual guidance and experienceIn essence, a tulku is a specific type of Rinpoche – a revered figure who is recognized as thereincarnation of a previous great teacher. -
‘That’s the Juice’ – The arts and the power to reveal, connect, and transform
Read MoreShawnigan sent 13 students to STAR Fest Nationals at Douglas College in Vancouver at the end of April, where they performed musical numbers and dramatic scenes in front of an adjudication panel, attended workshops, and connected with their fellow performers from across Western Canada. Theatre teacher Mr. Salvatore Interlandi spoke about the students’ experiences and why the performing arts matter in a Chapel Gathering soon after they returned. -
Paths of Passion: The Art of Diplomacy
Diplomacy is often considered one of the oldest vocations in the world, helping our nations work together over the past 3,500 years. Despite its age and longevity, international relations is also considered a path that guides our futures. Alan Asprey, a member of Shawnigan’s Model UN 360, reflects on his experience in the Harvard Model Congress Europe, one of the world’s most prestigious Model UN conferences.Read More
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‘What Can I Learn?’ – Sharing with Courage and Listening with Compassion
Read MoreIn a recent Chapel Service, Shawnigan teacher and alum Mrs. Heather Wilke ’98 (Kaye’s) was persuaded to speak about not only finding the courage to share your own opinions, but also listening with empathy to those of others. She drew some inspiration from a talk in a previous service by Dr. Jonathan Zimmerman from the University of Pennsylvania about free speech. -
April
How Hockey and Admissions Team Up at Shawnigan
Read MoreAt Shawnigan Lake School, hockey is more than a game – it's a path, a passion, and a powerful way to shape young leaders and student-athletes. What sets Shawnigan apart from most sports academies is the harmony between its competitive hockey program and its well-rounded educational experience. Behind every student-athlete’s journey is a close partnership between the School’s hockey staff and its admissions team, working together to ensure the right fit and future for each player.Spring is a key time in this journey. Across the country, hockey playoffs from one season are ending and new teams are swiftly being finalized soon after. This is no different for the Shawnigan hockey program. The Admissions team sat down with three staff members who coach and support our competitive hockey program to learn more about what our program has to offer, and why a student would want to consider joining Shawnigan as a hockey player. -
A Tribe Called Copeman's
The kitchen staff at Shawnigan does a fantastic job of feeding more than 500 students every day. But these are teenagers we’re talking about – they’re never satisfied, and it never hurts to supplement their regular meals with some after-hours food. For Mr. Elliot Logan, Grilled Cheese Night at Copeman’s House is more than just a way to quell the boys’ hunger – it is also an epic opportunity to come together.Read More
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Rugby Tour 2025
Read MoreOver Spring Break 2025, the senior boys’ rugby program was fortunate to tour Japan, with games against high school teams and a training session with the coach of a professional team (who is also a former Shawnigan parent and former Team Canada head coach). Head of Rugby Mr. John Tait reports on the success of the trip. -
Harvard Model Congress Europe, and Beyond
Read MoreDuring Spring Break 2025, 10 Shawnigan students travelled to Belgium for the Harvard Model Congress Europe, an annual event that looks at institutions of international governance. This was the first time the School has taken part in the HMCE, and it proved a huge success, with six students receiving awards. Grade 11 student Shannon Cen and Grade 10 student Alan Asprey received honourable mentions for their contributions to the NATO and Senate Judiciary committees, respectively. -
Paths of Passion: When a 360 Becomes a Career Path
Read MoreShawnigan has 32 programs under its 360 (arts and activities) umbrella, each with opportunities for student leadership. However, true initiative can often come from areas that require us to delve a bit further than what remains at the surface. Shelby H. shares her story of developing Shawnigan’s next generation athletes through a passion for coaching. -
March
'They'll always be with me' – Musical Theatre and Character Development
Read MoreNow in Grade 12, Talia S. has been part of Shawnigan’s annual musical theatre production every year she has attended the School, usually in major roles. Here she writes about the process for developing the characters she has played, and how they have stayed with her even after the productions ended. -
Reflections on Ramadan
Read MoreRamadan, the ninth month in the Islamic calendar and one of the Five Pillars of Islam, runs in 2025 from February 28 to March 29. Prior to Ramada, Kira Rasul-Jankovics – an Ismaili Muslim and Grade 10 student at Shawnigan – spoke in the Chapel Gathering on February 19 to educate her fellow students about this important observance and her personal experiences. -
Life in a Grade 8 House
Read MoreThere has been a buzz in the air since the official opening of Samuel House in early 2024. In the Admissions Office, we regularly field questions from prospective families and alumni about what it’s REALLY like to live in a co-educational boarding house with Grade 8 students. Who better to ask than our current live-in House staff and our Grade 11 mentors who support Grade 8 life at Shawnigan? -
Paths of Passion: Building More Than Just Robots
Shawnigan’s 360 (co-curricular arts and activities) robotics program was founded in 2012 through the vision of alumnus Dennis Ren. Over the ensuing 12 years, our students have transformed the program into a competitive powerhouse that has to date sent six teams to the VEX Robotics World Championships. John P., a team leader in this year’s competition, shares his experiences with one of Shawnigan’s most successful and dynamic extracurricular programs.Read More -
February
Black History Month: In Honour of My Mother
Read MoreEnglish teacher Mr. Michael Andoh was one of three main speakers in our February 22 Chapel Service that honoured Black History Month. In his address, Mr. Andoh noted that, while it is important to recognize the trailblazers and pioneers, it is equally valuable to honour those who made contributions that will not end up in the history books, like his mother, Comfort Afua Mansa Andoh. -
Black History Month: Overcoming Apartheid
Read MoreComing to Shawnigan from South Africa, where his family lived through the apartheid era, Grade 9 student Hluma Vezile has a unique perspective on Black history. In a speech he delivered in Chapel to help mark Black History Month, Hluma discussed the connections between apartheid, Nelson Mandela, rugby, and his family. -
Black History Month: Hair and Heritage
Read MoreGrowing up in locations around the world, Ephrim Horlock has used his hair to express himself and connect with his culture, and that has continued during his time at Shawnigan Lake School. This is the speech that Ephrim delivered in the School's Chapel service on February 22, marking Black History Month. -
Paths of Passion: On the Record
Read MoreThe recording arts studio is considered by many to be the crown jewel of our student resources here at Shawnigan. From sampling to creating entire albums, our students have accomplished wonders with their envisioned projects. Sean Xiao, a member of the Recording Arts 360, reflects on a personal project in which he linked his passion for musical production with his cultural heritage. -
10 Ways to be Successful at a Boarding School
Read MoreMr. Elliot Logan ’10 (Duxbury) graduated from Shawnigan Lake School and went on to a successful career in the film industry before returning to his alma mater to embrace a variety of roles. After looking at the boarding school experience from several different angles, he knows what it takes to be a successful student. -
Paths of Passion: Learning the Ropes
Read MoreWilliam Shakespeare once wrote that “One touch of nature makes the whole world kin.” At Shawnigan, we are surrounded by the beauty of nature. Since the School’s founding, our fellow students have taken upon themselves to discover the environment around us. Oscar Nicoletti reflects upon his experience on a recent trip with the Outdoor Leadership & Development 360, where he saw first-hand the tools and resources of Canadian first responders. -
January
Resistance, Part I: ‘It became increasingly impossible to remain standing on the sidelines of the conflict’
Read MoreShawnigan observed International Holocaust Remembrance Day with a sombre Chapel service centred around a moving message from Rev. Selinde Krayenhoff, the daughter of two members of the Dutch Resistance during the Second World War. This is the first part of her message to students. Click here for the second part.Content warning: this story contains material that may be harmful or traumatizing to some readers. -
Resistance, Part II: ‘We all have the choice as to how we will respond to those challenges’
Read MoreShawnigan observed International Holocaust Remembrance Day with a sombre Chapel service centred around a moving message from Rev. Selinde Krayenhoff, the daughter of two members of the Dutch Resistance during the Second World War. This is the second part of her message to students. Click here for the first part.Content warning: this story contains material that may be harmful or traumatizing to some readers. -
‘A role I’m proud of’ – Shawnigan’s tour guide program
Read MoreStudent tour guides serve as invaluable internal ambassadors for the School, welcoming prospective students and their families to campus and providing a gentle but enthusiastic introduction to Shawnigan. Now in Grade 12, Hazel Parris has been part of the tour guide program for three years, and recalls how her own tour helped shape her Shawnigan experience and explains what the program means to her. -
Paths of Passion: The Power of Music
Music plays an incredible role in our lives. Whether we listen to it or play it, melody and harmony have the power to shape, define, and inspire us. In our very first release of the Paths of Passion article series, we explore the passion of music through the eyes of Ash Butun, who discovered her love for music through performance and growth.Read More -
Community and Collective Responsibility: a Fable
Read MoreFor the Chapel service on Saturday, January 11 – the first service of a new calendar year and new academic term – Shawnigan Chaplain Rev. Ruth Dantzer shared a fable about the importance of integrity, generosity, and collective responsibility in community. This version of the fable was adapted by Keven Fletcher, Rev. Dantzer’s colleague at St. Michaels University School. -
Yes, I’m coaching basketball again at Shawnigan
Read MoreMr. Andrew Shepherd has been coaching boys’ basketball at Shawnigan for the last nine years, beginning with the Grade 9 team and working his way up to the senior boys’ squad this season. In that time he has gained a new perspective on coaching and the sport of basketball, and an appreciation for the work put in by the players on his team and everyone else who has helped make his journey possible. -
The Greatest Lie I Ever Told: Part 1
Read MoreFrom his years as a student to returning as a member of the Communications department and boarding house staff, Shawnigan has been a significant part of Elliot Logan’s life for much of the last two decades. But was it all based on false pretenses? Find out in this two-part series. -
What can adventure and the outdoors do for you?
Read MoreIn October 2024, Shawnigan’s Outdoor Leadership and Development Club and Adventure Sports team travelled to Quadra Island for a weekend packed with hiking, kayaking and other open-air undertakings. As Outdoor Education Coordinator Ms. Jessica Dick recounts, the trip was much more than just an off-campus adventure as the students learned about geography and history of the part of the world we live in, a key part of the experiential education focus at Shawnigan.
We acknowledge with respect the Coast Salish Peoples on whose traditional lands and waterways we live, learn and play. We are grateful for the opportunity to share in this beautiful region, and we aspire to healthy and respectful relationships with those who have lived on and cared for these lands for millennia.
Shawnigan Lake School is an independent co-educational boarding school for ages 13 –18 on Canada’s beautiful Pacific Coast. Our diverse, interdisciplinary and innovative programming helps shape the next generation of global leaders.
