My name is Ricky-Lee Watts and I’m of Nuu-chah-nulth ancestry on my mother’s side and my father’s ancestry is a mystery. I grew up in Port Alberni, and have now lived in Victoria for the past seven years where I completed my Bachelor’s degree at UVic, worked as a Student Recruiter at UVic and am now currently doing an internship with the Ministry of Indigenous Relations & Reconcliation.

This summer I will be living in Haida Gwaii and later exploring my cultural and ancestral roots, speaking at conferences, and traveling. With an acquired zest for life I believe each day brings new opportunity, and there's so much incredible beauty in our world to explore, embrace, and experience. With gratitude, I'm keen to embark on new opportunities that allow me to continue my own pathway of learning and growth, and also inspiring other people to find their own potential and enjoyment in life.

Why do you use Instagram?

I use Instagram both as a creative outlet for sharing and as a fun way to connect with other people.

What will people see on your feed?

Adventures living in downtown Victoria, and soon-to-be Haida Gwaii summers with sprinkles of B.C. travelling.

Does your page have a specific style?

Themes of curiosity, adventure and passion while travelling. Join me on this journey we call life!

Favorite Instagram accounts to follow? 

@chasespencermusic for the exciting journey of an up and coming musician.

@levi_hildebrand for funny antics and thoughtful discourse on living an environmentally conscious life.

@sammmooreart for incredible pyrography art.

@tylermcave for cinematic captures of global travel.

How do you decide on your location for shoots?

Quite spontaneously, really. Wherever my adventures call me and when opportunities arise. At any given location I do my best to capture the authentic feel of special experiences.

Biggest Instagram moment?

My most popular post is a portrait shot of me in Ottawa, and features on other Instagram pages have been fun, but my favourite moment was quite recently. I was invited as a keynote speaker and had photos taken with multiple participants in which I was tagged in their Instagram posts. This was very flattering and a beautiful way to both connect and capture the impact of the experience shared with people at that conference.

Favorite hashtags?

#nationalgeographic #ourplanetdaily #exploredreamdiscover #explorebc

Why do you follow VictoriaBCNow?

Inspiration for local everyday adventure.