Working in ECEC

Kismet Lowrie

Kismet Lowrie, Manager
Ashea Aboriginal Head Start Daycare, Kwanlin Dun First Nation
Whitehorse, Yukon Territory

Kismet Lowrie has worked as a fashion model, bartender and customer service representative. But she found her true calling when she discovered she had a talent for working with children.

She got her ECE diploma, then worked at several child care centres in Vancouver and Whitehorse before becoming the manager at Ashea in 2004.

Kismet reports to the director of health programs for Kwanlin Dun First Nation. She has many responsibilities, including developing and implementing the centre’s daycare program, supervising 13 staff, liaising with the coordinator/teacher of the Aboriginal Head Start Program, ensuring the safe and effective operation of the centre, and developing effective communication with parents. Ashea provides services to 54 children. It maintains a waiting list.

Kismet’s job comes with comprehensive benefits, including time off for overtime, special leave, vacation, sick leave, pension and a dental plan.

She says she loves having a positive impact on the children and developing good relationships with parents and other professionals. She feels her work is important for children and families, and is also part of community development for First Nations communities.