I don't have a favorite - any time I get to go up into the mountains, or travel through various landscapes - these experiences imprint upon me and help me to know the world better.
Staff Spotlight: Khalila Archer
Title:
Program DirectorPhotos
What is your favorite travel memory?
How have you changed/grown since working for your current company?
The ability to share both the beauty and solace of wilderness places and mindfulness practices with teens and young adults is especially rewarding. My appreciation for both areas has deepened as I've seen how young people's lives are changed by these experiences for the better.
What is the best story you've heard from a return student?
We have such wonderful stories about how the experience has impacted their lives when they return home.
One teen said that “iBme created a nurturing environment in the beautiful mountains that allowed me to be a truly authentic version of myself.”
To know that we were able to provide the space for that young person to have that sense of acceptance is invaluable.
If you could go on any program that your company offers, which one would you choose and why?
I do get to go! That's what's so wonderful about my work - we are all intimately involved in the programs that we offer.
I love leading the wilderness retreats as this is really a beautiful blend of two things that I hold dear. The Sierra Nevada Mountains are one of my favorite places on earth, the fact that I get to go be among beautiful granite slabs and crystal blue lakes on our summer Emigrant Wilderness Retreat is a highlight of my year.
What makes your company unique? When were you especially proud of your team?
I'm proud of our commitment to accessibility and our willingness to problem solve in order to continually align with our highest values.
It's not easy having to balance budget needs, and fundraising with high quality curriculum, excellent staff and teachers, and the needs of a diverse group of participants.
Our commitment to equity, to valuing relationships, and creative collaboration is strong and powerful.
What do you believe to be the biggest factor in being a successful company?
Creating an environment where people can show up authentically, collaborate in the way that best meets their skill-set, and thrive is key.
When people want to show up and bring their whole selves to the table - amazing things can happen. For us this includes including the voices and perspectives of all of our teachers, mentors, teen participants, and parents.