Noelle Suzuki, Sun Peaks Independent News’ newest community reporter, comes to the mountain from Nanaimo, B.C., where she graduated from Vancouver Island University with a bachelor of arts in psychology with a minor in journalism.
Throughout her years studying psychology and taking creative writing courses, she was always drawn to her journalism classes which led to her passion for journalistic writing.
Following her graduation in 2025, Suzuki and her classmates founded a literary magazine entitled The Raspberry Literary Magazine where she works as the primary photographer and non-fiction editor. Although writing poetry and campfire stories has always been a hobby of hers, her true love for writing stems from her love for non-fiction journalism.
Over the past six months, Suzuki worked as a student intern for The Discourse Nanaimo where she loved reporting on how communities can work to improve and what brings folks together.
Growing up in Canmore, Alta., Suzuki was immersed in the mountain lifestyle since childhood. She loves skiing, hiking, mountain biking and copious amounts of snow –there’s nothing she loves more than snow.
Suzuki has also always had an adoration for photography, writing and collaborating with a team.
What excites you about reporting on Sun Peaks?
“It has always been a dream of mine to live at a ski resort and work as a writer. This opportunity is like a dream come true. I’m excited to work in a close-knit community of folks who all have a mutual love of the mountains. Sun Peaks offers various events, activities and opportunities for community connection and I can’t wait to not only write all about it, but also to experience it!”
What do you hope will come from local reporting?
“I hope that reporting locally brings me closer to the community. Working in such a small community allows for strong community connections, and I am looking forward to being part of this collective to shed light on underreported stories. Smaller communities allow for more opportunity to spotlight unsung voices which I believe is one of my strengths as a journalist.”
What are you looking forward to in connecting with the community?
“Connecting with communities often brings a sense of belonging to one’s life. I am looking forward to not only listening to the stories of safety in connection and how they arose, but also to experience it for myself. I’m overwhelmed with excitement to be apart of a community who all share a similar love for mountain-life and value the importance of Mother Nature.”
What do you bring to The Sun Peaks community?
“I bring a diverse perspective to this community as a Japanese Canadian woman and member of the LGBTQ+ community. Throughout my studies in psychology, I have built a passion for advocating for mental health awareness. I hope to create a space for voices that may not always be heard. As a reporter in Sun Peaks, I hope to create a space for all voices and use my storytelling to uplift the community that makes Sun Peaks the special place that it is.”
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