You can't connect the dots looking forward – I was a lifeguard, swim instructor and camp counsellor in my teens. Being Director of Recreation & Cultural Services feels like coming home and connected the dots for me.
I started my career in local government a bit later in life. In 2018 I jumped at the chance to work for the District of Squamish in the Manager of Filming & Events. At the time, the District was looking for a manager to work with major planned events to ensure the community’s needs were represented.
Outside of festival management, it also quickly became clear there was the need for an expanded arts & culture role in our community and I dove in, bringing groups around Squamish together in more strategic ways.
Early on, I’d realized the alignment of recreation sector with my values and was thrilled at the opportunities available to build connections with my community and continue working to connect people (mostly children) to experiences through programs and services that enrich their lives. After all, it is our experiences that shape us.
Since August 2019, when I took on the role of Director of Recreation Services (acting) we’ve begun to actively integrate the Arts & Culture realm into Recreation Services; A move I’m excited about and believe will play an important role in ensuring our program and service inventory reflect our entire community.
Devon Guest lives, works and plays on the traditional territories of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw, and loves being outdoors on bikes and skis with daughter, dog and husband in tow.
Devon Guest is the Director of Recreation Services at District of Squamish. She leads a team of 80+ individuals in the strategic and operational work of supporting the community in recreation and culture programs and services. She started her career in local government in 2018 as the Manager of Filming & Events for Squamish and quickly realized the recreation sector aligned with her values. She was thrilled at the opportunities to build connections with her community, and to connect people to experiences that enrich their lives. In her current role, she is excited to actively integrate the Arts and Culture realm into Recreation services.
This is Devon's second year as a BCRPA Board Director. She has served on the board since 2022.