Macarena Mantilla, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Author at The Wren

Macarena Mantilla, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

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.

A map of the he proposed Ajax Copper-Gold project. Kamloops land claim

Land claims, clarified: What does the Quw’utsun Nation title case mean for Kamloops?

By Macarena Mantilla, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter ● Community ● January 16, 2026

As misconceptions spread about Indigenous land claims and private property, lawyers unpack the history, legal realities and local implications.

A mountain with snow, there is also vegetation around. The image is there to show the winter season in Tkʼemlúps and the Secwépemc winter traditions

What are some Secwépemc traditions celebrated in the winter?

By Macarena Mantilla, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter ● Secwépemc ● January 6, 2026

Long winter evenings supported rest, knowledge sharing, spirituality and more, says Secwépemc cultural advisor Ted Gottfriedson.

Various groups of people reunited for an unsanctioned event at the Thompson Rivers University campus following residential school denialism

‘Hatred is not welcome here’: Kamloopsians unite against residential school denialism

By Macarena Mantilla, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter ● News ● November 26, 2025

“This is a call out to stand in solidarity, rejecting hatred in all its forms and working together toward a future anchored in respect, healing, and truth,” Kúkwpi7 Rosanne Casimir stated.

In photos: Indigenous Veterans Day in Tkʼemlúps

By Macarena Mantilla, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter ● News ● November 12, 2025

‘Many volunteered at a time when they weren’t even recognized as citizens in our own homeland,’ Kúkwpi7 Rosanne Casimir says about Indigenous Veterans Day.

The area where the Red Bridge used to stand. Photo by Macarena Mantilla / The Wren News

What is happening with the Red Bridge?

By Macarena Mantilla, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter ● News ● October 21, 2025

‘We can’t get a straight answer,’ business owner says of government timelines for a proposed replacement bridge.

Where is Kamloops with truth and reconciliation?

By Macarena Mantilla, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter ● Secwépemc ● October 7, 2025

‘Our relationship as good neighbours has grown’: Kamloops city council members reflect on the city’s efforts to live up to the TRC’s Calls to Action.

Here’s how you can commemorate National Day of Truth and Reconciliation in Tkʼemlúps

By Macarena Mantilla, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter ● Secwépemc ● September 23, 2025

From film screenings to motorcycle rides, here are a few events in Kamloops to gather and learn Sept. 30.

Echoes of the Homesick Heart seeks to answer the question: ‘What do we do to heal our communities?’

By Macarena Mantilla, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter ● Secwépemc ● September 16, 2025

Laura Michel’s play Echoes of the Homesick Heart aims to support language revitalization with learning tools and a bursary.

On screen and in spirit: Indigenous voices lead the 4th Stseptékwles re Sk’elép (Coyote Stories) Indigenous Film Festival

By Macarena Mantilla, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter ● Community ● September 9, 2025

Taking place Sept. 26 to 28, the festival offers an ‘additional learning opportunity’ leading up to the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

Western Canada Theatre celebrates its 50th anniversary with all-Canadian plays

By Macarena Mantilla, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter ● News ● July 22, 2025

‘I think that there’s no better place’ organizer says of Kamloops for prioritizing Indigenous and Canadian plays.

Macarena Mantilla, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

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