Matthew Arkinstall
Is a fourth year student at Thompson Rivers University and a current research assistant to Dr. Mónica J. Sánchez-Flores. He is currently completing his Bachelor of Arts, double majoring in Sociology and Psychology. He hopes to go on to graduate school to continue his education in Sociology.
Matthew was born and raised in Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada. He spends his free time reading different literary works for his book club he hosts once a month, enjoys spending time walking his dogs around the neighbourhood, and is an avid movie buff.
Radha Ortiz
Recently completed a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology and Psychology and is currently a research assistant to Dr. Mónica J. Sánchez-Flores. She is in the process of applying for graduate studies to obtain a Masters in Occupational Therapy and is keenly interested in researching the connections between mindfulness meditation, individual quality of life and community well-being.
Her research interests spring from the desire to participate in strengthening the relationships between individuals in the community and providing support for individuals lacking agency and voice within Canadian society. Born in Argentina and raised in various regions of British Columbia her immigrant background and unique upbringing found her approaches to education and organizational and community health- all of which rely on healthy doses of compassion, empathy and humour.
In the future she aims to become further involved in mindfulness meditation as a means to promote equity, respect and non-judgment in workplace, home and beyond.