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

Despite several years of calls for a pride centre, Queer students at Thompson Rivers University are left in the lurch

By Macarena Mantilla ● News ● August 13, 2024

Students originally proposed plans for a pride centre in 2017, creating a formal petition in 2021. Queer students at TRU still have no dedicated space.

A wooden pantry with swinging doors sits on a rainbow painted sidewalk outside The Stir.

‘No signs of slowing down’: Kamloops Food Policy Council offers resources to beat the heat

By Macarena Mantilla ● In-depth ● July 30, 2024

Drought and high temperatures are putting pressure on community gardens and food distribution. Here’s how the Kamloops Food Policy Council is stepping up.

Cooling spaces in Kamloops are limited despite heat warning

By Macarena Mantilla ● News ● July 16, 2024

The city opened some cooling spaces for Kamloopsians, but more resources are needed, unhoused residents and advocates say.

Meet The Wren’s new reporter, Macarena Mantilla

By Macarena Mantilla ● News ● July 9, 2024

Macarena Mantilla comes to The Wren from an internship with CBC Radio and will soon graduate from Thompson Rivers University.

The reception at Merit Place still holds the word "tickets" from its time as a bus depot. Merit Place is written on the reception window.

Meeting the residents of Merit Place

By Macarena Mantilla ● In-depth ● January 30, 2024

“There is help out there you just have to reach out,” says one resident of the shelter.

International students call for better reporting on racial discrimination at TRU

By Nicole Perry, Janelle Rudolph & Macarena Mantilla ● News ● July 4, 2023

‘Kamloops is known for being diverse and welcoming,’ says one student who would like to see the entire community live up to this reputation.

Kamloops LGBTQ2S+ students prepare signs for the 2017 Kamloops Pride Parade

How will mayoral candidates support the LGBTQ2S+ community?

By Macarena Mantilla ● News ● October 14, 2022

The Wren spoke with Kamloops Pride and mayoral candidates to understand how city council could expand LGBTQ2S+ community support.