SCHOOL DISTRICT5SOUTHEASTKOOTENAY

Instructors

Niall McFadyen (Tech Hub Coordinator)

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Niall McFadyen is the Tech Hub Learning Support Teacher and Coordinator where he helps students explore new ways of learning through technology, creativity, and hands-on innovation. With more than 17 years of teaching experience in the Seven Oaks School Division, Niall brings a unique blend of expertise in education, multimedia, and digital technologies to his work.

Niall holds a Master of Education in Educational Technology, a Bachelor of Education, a Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Education, and a Bachelor of Arts in Filmmaking. Throughout his career, he has taken on a variety of roles including homeroom teacher, multimedia technology specialist, high school project-based learning teacher, and university lab instructor.

Driven by a deep interest in the intersection of technology and learning, Niall's teaching and research has focused on game-based learning, digital literacy, educational technology, media production, design projects, and inquiry driven project-based learning.

In the classroom and beyond, Niall has led digital media productions, developed websites, contributed to academic publications, and presented his work to educators and organizations in a variety of settings. Whether designing innovative learning environments, exploring the educational potential of games, or helping students bring creative ideas to life, Niall is driven by a belief that technology used purposefully and critically can transform learning and inspire curiosity, creativity, and exploration.

KaleAsperin.jpgKale Asperin

Kale is a young, relatable instructor with over five years of experience writing code, developing innovative projects, and contributing to open-source communities. Driven by a deep curiosity, Kale thrives on diving into the intricacies of software and games, exploring how they function beneath the surface. This passion for understanding and discovery fuels Kale’s teaching, where they enthusiastically share insights and inspire others to engage with technology in meaningful and creative ways.

Derek Baert.jpegDerek Baert

Derek is a game developer with a passion for Programming and Technical Design. He holds two diplomas from Red River College Polytech, one in Business Information Technology where he focused on Programming and Web Development, and an Advanced Diploma in Game Development (Programming). He is the Technical Director for Eneme Inc, and an Ambassador with the Winnipeg Game Collective. 

Belanna Johnston.jpgBelanna Johnston

Known for her caring nature, Belanna is an enthusiastic, athletic, and hardworking individual who has been working with the 7 Oaks School Division for 4+ years and continues to pursue her education further as she works alongside at-risk youth and community members. She is passionate about art and nature, and looks forward to learning more as she tackles every challenge thrown her way. With the goal of assisting youth in her care to make education not only a fun experience, but an opportunity for growth.

Avery Powell.pngAvery Powell

Avery Powell is a 3D artist with a passion for virtual production and a strong foundation in Unreal Engine and Blender. In addition to freelance work with New Media Manitoba and the Winnipeg School Division, Avery has supported students and educators through the Seven Oaks Tech Hub program, helping to bring real-time 3D workflows and creative tools into the classroom. Their experience spans cutting-edge virtual production shoots and educational initiatives, where they excel at making advanced technology approachable and inspiring for learners. Avery is committed to continuous growth, consistently pushing creative and technical boundaries while sharing knowledge with others. 

Q Takayuki Yoneda.pngQ Takayuki Yoneda

Takayuki "Q" Yoneda is a UX designer and co-founder of Sadie, a branding and marketing agency he launched with his best friend and business partner, Justin, during the pandemic. He is also the art director at ENEME, a local game studio, and a published manga creator and author. Originally from Kyoto, Japan, Taq began his career in Vancouver’s advertising industry before relocating to Winnipeg, where he graduated from RRC and continued working in the same field. He recently expanded into game development—something he had long intended to pursue. Outside of work, he enjoys drawing, gaming, reading, cooking, and lifelong learning, especially in languages and philosophy. He’s still figuring things out, one colour, one line of code, and one late-night sketch at a time.