Shirlyn is a graduate student at Brandon University focusing on her Master in Rural Development. Shirlyn's undergraduate degree is in Linguistics and Languages and she holds a Diploma in Conflict Resolution skills development. She has 13 years of field experience as a development practitioner with International Non-Profit Organizations. Her expertise is in Monitoring and Evaluation, project designing, strategic planning, community empowerment, community-led initiatives, and community participatory approach. At RDI Shirlyn is involved in the development and enhancement of community development tools, and skills assessment for indigenous communities as well as being part of the development and dissemination of project reports and outreach products.