Author

Macarena Mantilla

Macarena Mantilla moved from Ecuador to pursue her degree in journalism at Thompson Rivers University. She seeks to amplify the stories of people in the Tk’emlúps (Kamloops) territory. Growing up in Quito, Ecuador taught her about different cultures and traditions. She is interested in reporting on social issues, mental health and human rights. She has covered stories that have focused on minorities in the community. 

Macarena's Latest Articles

A viewpoint in Kamloops shows the city
Hiking trails and viewpoints in Kamloops: Where to go and what to know

Here are some great options for hiking trails and viewpoints in Kamloops.

From left to right there is one man, and three woman next to him. They are standing in a line smiling.
New Indigenous Justice Centre in Kamloops to help ‘strengthen community safety’

‘When our people are well, our communities are safe,’ says vice-chair for the B.C. First Nations Justice Council.

A man is standing up with a hammer in his hand pointed above his head. he is dressed in a red shirt, has a plaid shirt, denim vest, blue jeans and cowboy boots. The theater light is shining on him as he keeps his pose. While in the other hand he keeps a small bag. The character is Red in the play Little Red Warrior and His Lawyer.
‘Little Red Warrior and His Lawyer’ pokes fun at the absurdity of land claims, and is as relevant as ever

Director and playwright Kevin Loring used his personal experience to inspire the play, which runs at Kamloops’ Sagebrush Theatre starting Feb. 20.

Interior Women’s Centre Society
At the Interior Women’s Centre Society in Kamloops, all women are welcome

“Through the Interior Women's Center society, one of our biggest hopes and dreams is to bring loud and proud advocacy work for women and girls and non-binary individuals across the interior,” Kathleen Larose says, one of the cofounders of the organization.

Kamloops Adults Learners Society
Kamloops Adult Learners Society celebrates 20 years of lifelong learning

The Kamloops Adult Learners Society, going on 20 years of operations, was recently awarded $5,000 from the 2025 social and community development grants given by the city.

The Wren’s top reader requested stories of 2024

From the history of the Red Bridge to concerns about 15 minute cities, The Wren's top stories were informed by local questions and concerns.

Kamloops gift guide Crooked Crown local store in Kamloops
An affordable Kamloops gift guide featuring local businesses

Check out these stores located in downtown Kamloops for some gifts that do not break the bank.

Picture of Secwépemc-led store. 4 generations creations
2 Secwépemc-led businesses you can support during this holiday season

4 Generations Creations and Tk’emlúps Traditions share the stories behind their art and businesses.

The Powwow Arbour during last year’s Who-Ville Kamloops Photo by Who-Ville Kamloops
Want to support locals in Kamloops? Check out these holiday events and markets

Support local businesses, artists and organizations in Kamloops this holiday season with these events and markets.

People gathered listening to a speaker. The event is the climate action fest.
How a grassroots group created Kamloops’ first car share

‘If you want something done, you can't just go out in the community and ask people to do it for you,’ says the co-founder of Propel Us Carshare Co-Op.

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