Staff Highlight: Robi Fish
Robi at the Bow River
Robi Fish is a Community Program Leader with Spirit North, and is based in Mînî Thnî, Bow Valley, AB, Treaty 7. Robi has been with us for four years and her programs are generally connected to her passions for hiking, biking, and skiing. She was drawn to Spirit North through a shared understanding of the power of sport and play, and it’s ability to create space for people to connect with themselves, each other, and the land where they live.
“I am so grateful to be working with members of the Îyârhe Nakoda nation who are fluent in the Stoney language and share cultural learning with me and the students.”
We asked Robi a few questions to highlight her work with Spirit North and learn more about how she got involved:
Spirit North: Tell us a little about where you come from, where you live, and how you came to work for Spirit North.
Robi: I live in Canmore, AB, where I grew up. My passion for outdoor sports like cross-country skiing, hiking, and biking—along with my belief that children need time to connect and be outside on the land—led me to Spirit North. My values really align with the vision, and I hope to be an active participant in reconciliation.
Spirit North: Can you share a memorable highlight from a program you've led in your time here? What made it stand out for you?
Robi: There are so many great days! But taking ski team kids to the loppet in Lake Louise is definitely a highlight. It is great to see the skiers challenge themselves, enjoy the time with their friends and explore a new place.
Spirit North: How do you incorporate cultural learning or practices into your programs?
Robi backcountry skiing near Lake Louise
Robi: I am so grateful to be working with members of the Îyârhe Nakoda Nation who are fluent in the Stoney language and share cultural learning with me and the students. I love learning the language along with the kids!
Robi bikepacking in the front ranges of the Rocky Mountains
Spirit North: Is there someone particular in your life who inspires you, if so, how have they inspired you?
Robi: My daughters inspire me to approach every day with a sense of adventure!
Spirit North: How do you connect with your passion for sport and play outside of Spirit North?
Robi: I love to explore the mountains in my free time whether it be on skis, foot or by bike.
As you can see, Robi’s passion for exploring through sport and play inspires the programs she leads with Spirit North. Kids and teachers will attest, her compassion and caring nature create a safe space for youth to explore, learn, and connect to each other and where they live. Robi continues to set a great example of what it means to be a leader: not only for the youth in her programs but for all of us at Spirit North who feel lucky to know her as a colleague.