Kari Esparza-Sosa (she/they) – Chair
Born and raised in Aguascalientes, México, Kari is a passionate advocate for 2SLGBTQIA+ rights and a dedicated community researcher committed to fostering more equitable communities where every individual can thrive in all aspects of their lives. Since moving to NL in 2017, Kari has developed a deep affection for, and connection to, Newfoundland and Labrador and its diverse communities. Their love for singing brought her to Spectrum Queer Choir in 2018 where Kari joined the Alto section. Kari is now the Chair of the Board of Directors. In her spare time, Kari loves to go on walks with her dog Moka, play Nintendo Switch, or jumping on stage at the local improv scene.
Jill Blackwood (she/her) – Treasurer
Jill Blackwood worked as a clinical psychologist in the health system for over 30 years until recently retiring. She volunteered on the executive of the Association of Psychology Newfoundland Labrador in various capacities including treasurer for close to 10 years. Jill has been a member of Spectrum Queer Choir since its inaugural year.
Nathan Hynes (he/him) – Secretary
Nathan has been a member of Spectrum since joining in 2012, and has enjoyed singing alongside his community every step of the way. After a two-year hiatus finishing his Master of Information degree at Dalhousie University, Nathan has returned to the province eager to help build his community further. He is currently working as a librarian in St. John’s public libraries. Nathan enjoys video games and crafting in his spare time.
Maka Binimelis (they/she) – Member at Large
Maka is a Software Engineer, always looking for opportunities to combine their dual passions of technology and the humanities. Originally from Chile, Maka has made NL their home since 2016. They love being part of Spectrum Queer Choir and connecting with their community through music. They are currently in charge of maintaining the website, and taking care of all the choir’s techy needs. When they are not geeking around, Maka enjoys listening to music, reading, and riding their bicycle.
Nathalie Brunet (she/her/elle) – Member at Large
Nathalie recently retired from teaching Science in junior high, where she also had the privilege of being the openly queer teacher-facilitator to the school’s “LGBTQ-munity” group. Besides singing in Spectrum, she is also a potter, a D&D player, a recorder player, and a hiker and gardener with an interest in ecology. She loves Spectrum as an opportunity to be in multi-generational queer community – and on top of that you get to sing, too!!!