Kyna Johnson

We are extremely grateful for our Paddling Volunteer of the Year award recipient, Kyna Johnson. In one short year, Kyna has already made significant contributions to the BCMOS paddling program. Not only has she dedicated numerous hours as a volunteer to help keep the BCMOS paddling program running smoothly, she has also assisted with our ASABC sailing and our BCMOS hiking programs! 

When asked about the reason she joined BCMOS paddling, Kyna replied “I’m an outdoor enthusiast and couldn’t imagine my life without my love for the outdoors and activities. It fills my heart with so much joy and love to be able to provide this same experience and enjoyment for those that need a little help. To be by their side for support, encouragement, and inspiration is truly fulfilling.” She further elaborated on her love for the outdoors, stating, “Being on the water is so important to me. I learned to swim and be on the water with all kinds of activities ever since I was very young, and I couldn’t imagine my life without being out on the water. […] If I ever couldn’t be out on the water doing my activities on my own, I would love for someone to be giving their time to help me. That is why I am doing this. I love helping people.” 

Last summer was Kyna’s first season with us, so admittedly, she “was nervous the first time [that she went on the water] with a wheelchair on the paddleboard.” However, she was happy that she gave it a try, exclaiming, “I went for it and overcame my fear. I paddled the paddleboard with the wheelchair and my client without a problem and we both had a super great time! […] The second time I did it I was very confident!” 

Reflecting upon the connections she made last season, Kyna detailed how many of the clients were an inspiration to her. The impact that her time has had on other peoples’ lives became clear when Kyna detailed her experience with a child named Kaiya. Kyna explained “[Kaiya] loves paddleboarding, and would go on her own paddleboard sitting down, and I would paddleboard beside her. I would sit down on mine as well, to be the same. We would talk and laugh and just paddle around. She would always talk about her favorite ice cream. Her parents would keep requesting me each time she signed up because we have such a connection. She loves being on the water and would always look so calm and peaceful enjoying every moment. She would always make me tear up because I was so proud of her being so brave and powerful by getting out there! I was so happy to be paddling by her side, making her smile and laugh.” 

Kyna’s personal goals are always to “help people, make them smile, and make them happy.” She added, “I love being proud of people. So anytime that I bring a client out with BCMOS I am so proud that nothing stops them from doing what they love.” When discussing why people may be interested in becoming a volunteer she said, “The inspiration is to see the clients of BCMOS getting out there, fearless, and letting nothing stop them from enjoying what they love! This inspires me as well to be thankful for what I can do, and to offer my help to inspire others as they continue to inspire me.” 

Thank you Kyna for your consistent dedication to BCMOS Paddling. We are beyond thankful to have you at our organization. We admire how your positivity and cheerful spirit ensures that every participant feels welcomed, safe, and included!