Board Members

  • Ross Everatt

    Interim President

    Contact:
    Ph: (250) 499-9840
    Email: rosseveratt@sosma.ca

  • Daniel Pitman

    Interim Vice-President

    Taanishi, I am six generation Red River Métis (Ojibway-English). I have retired as a Youth and Family Counsellor after 40 years of service. I was President of SOSMA from 2005-2012, Region 3 Director and sat on the MNBC Executive from 2012-2020. I strongly believe in our Michif culture, heritage and teachings. Our Métis children are our future and I believe in promoting and supporting their dreams. Maarsii

  • Jean (Rosaline Jeanette) Jones

    Treasurer

    I have been a citizen of MNBC and the South Okanagan Similkameen Métis Association since 2013.  My son, Robert David Jones, now deceased, and myself were interviewed by Daniel Pitman, who signed the necessary documents to be forwarded to MNBC for verification of ancestry and approval of citizenship.

    Since becoming a citizen and eventually a member of the Board, I have witnessed many changes in our Association over the years.  At times, our Association struggled to fill positions on our Board and for the most part only had eight to twelve regular citizens attending monthly meetings that included Board of Directors.

    Even though we had small numbers, the Presidents’ strived to keep us alive.  Several activities became popular:  a Beading Circle, and funding was received from MNBC UPIP.  Funds received were used in conjunction with the School District to hold Louis Riel celebrations, holding a Métis dinner and bringing a popular Métis artist, Elder Bev Lambert, to teach dance steps, especially jigging, to the students.  The students were taught how to make spoons, used as a popular music instrument.  And over the years recognizing and honouring Métis grad students. 

    It is an honor to serve on the SOSMA Board of Directors, holding the position of Treasurer.

  • Natasha Radosztics

    Youth Representative

    Growing up, Natasha has been raised fully immersed in her Métis heritage. Since being elected SOSMA’s Youth Representative she has offered a great point of view and has been an excellent addition to the board. Natasha recently graduated Penticton Secondary School, where she found passion in culinary arts. When she’s not busy attending meetings and community gatherings she cares for her family's new puppy.

  • Tracy Franklin

    2SLGBTQIA Representative

  • Karyn Heinrick

    Women’s Representative

    As a long time Penticton resident, Karyn is excited to be part of the Métis community and see SOSMA growing and flourishing! Karyn looks forward to bringing her family to community and cultural events and hopes to see other families join in the fun.

  • Tim Thompson

    Tim Thompson

    General Director

    While Tim himself is Penticton born and raised, his family’s heritage began in the United States and migrated to Canada after the Civil War. Tim’s diverse background includes a love for classic cars, coaching hockey, and gardening. Tim has always been an integral part of the South Okanagan Community, since becoming a Métis Citizen in 2016 his love for community only grew; including being an active SOSMA board member for 4 years.

  • Brigitte Radosztics

    General Director

    Hello, I'm Brigitte Radosztics. Originally hailing from Winnipeg, Manitoba, I made the life-changing move to Penticton in 1994 to pursue my education in becoming a care aid. Since 1996, I've proudly contributed to the same company, finding fulfillment in my career. I married my husband in 1997. My world is graced by the presence of two incredible daughters, aged 21 and 19, and four adorable Chihuahuas who bring boundless joy to our home.

    I find immense fulfillment in volunteering for various city events, cherishing the opportunity to give back to our community. As a Red River Métis, I take great pride in my heritage and continually seek to deepen my connection to it through ongoing learning.

  • Gail Kronlachner

    General Director
    I have been a proud member of SOSMA for 17 years and have served as an Elder Board Member for over two years. Prior to moving to the Okanagan, my husband and I spent 20 years near Dawson Creek, where we owned and operated a cattle ranch and raised buffalo. During that time, I also worked with a non-profit society contracted by the BC Government, serving as the Coordinator of an assessment centre supporting at-risk youth.

    Now retired and living in Penticton, I continue to share my knowledge and passion for Métis culture by teaching beading and traditional practices, while serving on the SOSMA Board as an Elder.

  • Sloane Kusmack

    General Director

    Sloane grew up in Winnipeg, MB, surrounded by Metis culture but not realizing her roots until later in life.

    Sloane has been a Pentictonite since 2010 and with the opening of SOSMA, has been able to learn more about her culture and connect with family and community. 

    Sloane is looking forward to being a part of the board and serving our community.