Speakers

Formed in 1978, CFVSAR is comprised of over 25 unpaid professionals who have each undergone extensive mandatory Search and Rescue training. The Central Fraser Valley stretches from the west border of Chilliwack to the east border of Surrey, British Columbia Canada. Whether it be inland water and rivers, mountain terrain, high-angle rope, or urban rescue, our team of dedicated members are on-call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. We are a resource for agencies such as the RCMP, Emergency Management BC, and the Fire Department. Our members are trained in a variety of specialties, from rope rescue, swift water / flood rescue, avalanche response, and public education.  

Emily Bakhitah Akoth Otieno is a Rotarian with the Rotary Club of Kisumu Winam, in Kenya. She is the founder of an NGO called Rise to Shine Education Foundation, which seeks to empower and enable young, bright needy students from the western region of Kenya.

Emily is motivated by a strong desire to provide a positive social impact and to give back to society. She does this through offering scholarships to children, knowing firsthand the importance of education in a child’s life. Emily’s goal is to pursue a Masters degree in Development Studies in September 2023 at SOAS University. She also works with Red Rubber Ball Foundation, a UK based organization that works with youth in Kenya.