Meet the RDCO Parks Students helping visitors connect with nature

Every summer, RDCO Parks welcomes a new group of students who bring curiosity, enthusiasm and a passion for connecting people with nature. This year, two Park Interpreter Students, Eli Decker and Isis Khalil, are doing just that, helping visitors discover the stories, ecosystems and experiences that make our regional parks so special.

For Eli Decker, who grew up in Salmon Arm, a love of the outdoors started early. Family hikes, camping trips and time spent exploring nature sparked an interest that eventually led him to study Ecology, Evolution and Conservation Biology. Today, that passion comes full circle as he spends his summer helping park visitors learn more about the natural world around them

"What I enjoy most is meeting new people almost every day," says Eli. "It's really rewarding to hear face-to-face how much people enjoy our parks and programs."

The experience has also reshaped how he sees his future. Before joining RDCO Parks, Eli assumed government careers were mostly spent indoors behind desks. This summer has shown him that local government can offer opportunities to work outdoors, build community connections and contribute to environmental stewardship.

Meanwhile, fellow Park Interpreter Student Isis Khalil brings a truly global perspective to the role, having called Belgium, Panama, the Philippines, Chile and Denmark home. Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Zoology, Isis has always been fascinated by animals and the natural world. What began as an interest in animal behaviour has evolved into a growing passion for research, birdwatching and migratory bird studies.

For Isis, Visitor Services provides the perfect opportunity to combine learning and education.

"A big part of all of this is learning new things so that we can teach others about those things," she explains. "I want to be able to share the vibrant world I've had the privilege to experience with others, so they can feel excited about spending time outside as well."

What stands out most to Isis is the ability to make a positive impact on visitors' experiences. Whether it's answering questions, leading programs or simply offering a warm welcome, she values being part of what helps people feel safe, included and connected in their community.

For both students, the most memorable moments of the summer aren't found in reports or statistics, but in the human connections they've made along the way. Eli fondly remembers helping children make bracelets and talking about local parks during the Live in Lake Country event.

For Isis, one interaction continues to resonate. After a park program, a young participant approached her with a simple question: "Will I get to see you again?" It's a moment that reminded her how meaningful these experiences can be, especially for the children and families who participate.

When they're not sharing their knowledge in the parks, both students embrace the outdoor lifestyle they encourage in others. Eli enjoys biking, swimming, camping and board game nights with friends, while Isis spends her free time scuba diving, gardening, birdwatching, photographing wildlife and hiking with her cats and dog.

Together, Eli and Isis represent the next generation of environmental leaders and educators. Through their enthusiasm, expertise and genuine love of nature, they're helping visitors see regional parks not just as places to visit, but as places to learn, connect and build lasting memories. And in the process, they're discovering new possibilities for their own futures as well.