Little Adventurers on Vancouver Island

Ashley, a local author, illustrator, and community advocate, has been nominated for two prestigious categories at the Nanaimo Women of Influence Awards: Arts & Culture and Community & Social Responsibility. After careful consideration, Ashley has chosen to be considered for the Community & Social Responsibility category, recognizing her outstanding commitment to giving back to her community.

In just three years as an author, Ashley has raised over $10,000 for local charities, all while prioritizing the importance of community and human connection. Through her personal and professional efforts, she has supported a variety of causes, including Mamas for Mamas, the Backpack Program, North Island Wildlife Recovery, and the Surfrider Foundation. In addition, Ashley’s Nanaimo North Edition book sales feature an ongoing initiative where she donates 10 books for every 100 sold, ensuring that books are accessible to those in need.

However, Ashley’s dedication to social responsibility extends far beyond her literary work. Most recently, she organized a fundraiser to support a local teen diagnosed with bone cancer. By hosting a crewneck sweatshirt sale, Ashley raised $850 for the family—despite having no personal connection to them. This fundraiser is just one example of Ashley’s natural instinct to step in and help whenever she sees a need.

Ashley was quick to acknowledge the generosity of local businesses like Riptide Graphics, who partnered with her for the crewneck fundraiser. “Riptide Graphics was incredible in helping make this happen. They offered to create the sweaters at a very low cost, allowing us to donate as much as possible to the family,” Ashley shared. “It’s local businesses like Riptide that make it possible for us to do more and give more to those in need.”

“I believe that we all have the ability to make a difference, and I try to do that in any way I can—whether that’s through donations, fundraisers, or simply offering a hand to those in my community.”

Ashley is also one of the driving forces behind the revitalization of the Qualicum Beach Skatepark. As a co-organizer of the Qualicum Beach Skatepark Project, she helped spearhead and organize the Puttin’ for the Park event, which successfully raised $13,000 for the skatepark’s much-needed rebuild. This event not only brought the community together for a day of golf, live music, and local vendors, but it also demonstrated Ashley’s ability to rally support for local causes.

Now, working alongside her partner Gauri, Ashley is focused on bringing the skatepark project to completion. The pair is determined to see the project through to its final stages, with plans for the skatepark’s rebuild set for Spring 2025.

“Community projects like the skatepark are so important—they give people a space to gather, be active, and connect,” Ashley explains. “I’m proud to be part of this initiative, and I’m excited to see it come to life for the youth and families in our community.”

Ashley’s work in both the local arts and philanthropic sectors exemplifies the spirit of social responsibility and leadership that the Nanaimo Women of Influence Awards seeks to celebrate. Whether through her book donations, her involvement in local causes, or her hands-on approach to community building, Ashley is a true pillar of support and an inspiring role model to others.

The Nanaimo Women of Influence Awards honor women who have made significant contributions to their communities, and Ashley’s efforts continue to have a profound impact. The award winners will be announced at the upcoming ceremony February 5th.

Ashley was featured as Alum of the Month, May 2023. Ashley graduated from VIU with her Bachelor of Arts with a Major in Sports Health and a Bachelor of Education. Check out the article here.

She recently released her fourth book Little Adventurers Vancouver Island: North Nanaimo Edition, after the success of her books that feature Qualicum Beach, Parksville, Errington, Coombs and Nanoose Bay.

Qualicum Beach Teacher Releases Interactive Colouring Book

Ashley was featured in the PQB News when she released her first book in November 2022. Check out the article here.

PQB highlighted Ashley's most recently published book being released which focuses on the Parksville, Coombs and Errington Region. Her launch took place at Qualicum Cheese Works. Check out the article here.

Times Colonist November 2023, highlighted her work in renaming Contaminant Pond into Salamander Pond. She discovered its original name when researching her first book. Check out the article here.