Melanie Fontaine
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Melanie Fontaine brings to KAST passion, skill and deep commitment to benefit the Kootenay science and tech communities.
After moving to the West Kootenays in 2020, she managed a small business while settling into the Kootenay life. Melanie is excited to lead the KAST team, creating relationships across the region and bringing renewed energy to programs, both current and future, for KAST.
Melanie comes from a strong scientific background in biochemistry research with a Master of Science degree from the University of Alberta. Some of her experiences include working at a non-profit hospital in Kenya and for the Provincial Health Services Authority in Vancouver.
Outside of work, Melanie can be found spending time with her partner and fur-babies, whether that be skiing the local mountains, creating stained glass art or gardening in her backyard.
Crystal Swan
COMMUNICATIONS & ADMINISTRATION MANAGER
Crystal Swan joins KAST after spending the last 8 years working remotely as a consultant to both local and international businesses in the fields of project management and digital marketing. She has a strong drive to continually learn, solve problems and make an impact on the community.
With a long history of family and life in Nelson, Crystal has a deep respect for the people and community here in the Kootenays. She has a diverse background that started out with Civil Engineering Technology and Drafting for the City of Calgary. She brings that analytical mindset to KAST in her ability to organize and manage programs, budgets and reporting.
When not working, Crystal is busy keeping up with her two boys, working as a PAC volunteer, out riding her mountain bike or skiing.
Katelyn Bilenduke
PROGRAM MANAGER
Katelyn Bilenduke joins team KAST, bringing creativity, enthusiasm and a passion for making a positive impact!
Before moving from Toronto in early 2022, Katelyn spent over 7 years in university recruitment advising students and delivering programs to support youth in achieving their postsecondary goals. She also has experience working in youth travel, hospitality and for media outlets, such as CBC.
Katelyn has a strong background in media and communications, with skills in writing, event planning, broadcasting, public speaking, marketing and content creation. She’s eager to introduce exciting programs that inspire folks across the Kootenays to discover their own passions and contribute to the local tech and entrepreneurial community.
In her spare time, Katelyn can be found cooking, volunteering with animals, travelling with her partner and being active!
Terry Sidhu
MARKETING & EVENTS COORDINATOR
Terry Sidhu is passionate about empowering people to access their fullest potential.
Originally from the UK, Terry moved to Canada in 2010 and successfully launched his very own life coaching practice. After 9+ years of coaching and running a demanding business, he shifted focus towards teaching meditation as a form of sustainable mental health management. In 2020 he released his book, Meditate: Breathe into meditation and awaken your potential, and today specializes in teaching neurodivergent individuals how to meditate.
In addition to lending his wealth of business and marketing skills to KAST, Terry is excited for the opportunity to grow the entrepreneurial and tech community in the Kootenays. He is eager to bring fresh energy to KAST events, working with diverse groups to engage the community and bring people together.
In his spare time Terry enjoys writing, dancing, and exploring ways to incorporate innovative technologies such as: AR, VR, and AI into his teachings.
