With over 27 years of teaching experience in Manitoba, Kelli Mandzuik has had the privilege of fostering a love for learning and supporting students from early years to high school. With a major in English and a minor in Physical Education, she has had the opportunity to teach a wide range of subjects—from Nursery to Grade 6 Physical Education to advanced English courses at the Grades 9-12 level. Throughout her career, Kelli has embraced the opportunity to connect with students beyond the classroom. Whether coaching sports teams or running clubs like Writing Club, Zumba Club, and GSA Club, she has found great joy in creating spaces where students can explore their talents, build confidence, and feel supported as individuals. At this stage in her career, her focus is on giving back to the educational community. Kelli is passionate about mentoring future educators and educational assistants, equipping them with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed in Manitoba schools. By sharing her experiences and insights, she hopes to inspire and prepare the next generation of educators to make a meaningful difference in the lives of their students. As for her non-teaching life, she is passionate about traveling, camping (the real way, in a tent) helping others, reading, writing, and being active outdoors. Kelli cherishes her time with family and friends, and she is always working on deepening her meditation practice. Her happy place is sitting on the rocks by the water in Grand Marais, MB, sipping on an ice-cold Coca-Cola out of a glass bottle while watching the sun go down.