Carla Stephenson has lived her adult life in small rural towns and has worked in the arts in British Columbia for over two decades.

She's studied community development, innovated systems and built community hubs and cultural events, and is called to the work of amplifying the voices of others, mostly artists.

She is the founder of the Tiny Lights Festival in Ymir, BC and creator of the Rural Arts Inclusion Social Innovation Lab project.

“I do not know how to change the system or to create a better one but I believe that through listening, collective story harvesting, and collaboration we can find ways to support change.

Arts play a role in disrupting and getting to the truth of issues in subversive and overt ways. I am honoured and grateful to have the opportunity to explore this challenge with as many people who feel called to participate as possible.” - Carla Stephenson