Sooke Region Lifelong Learning
LEARNING NEVER ENDS
Who We Are
Albert Einstein famously said, “Wisdom is not a product of schooling but of the lifelong attempt to acquire it.”
We agree! Sooke Region Lifelong Learning (SRLL) was launched in 2016 with this in mind, delivering 300+ FREE learning programs over the past decade. We’re enormously proud of this 100-percent volunteer-run initiative, and happy to report that our previous term was well attended and lots of fun. If you participated in any of our courses, we thank you sincerely for your support.
For the Fall 2025 term, there are 17 new or returning courses to choose from, from cold-water plunging to energy healing, discussions on colonialism and Canada’s democracy, an exploration of feminism, the world of bears and cougars … along with a return of Movies in the Afternoon, Book Club, World Events and Doc & Talk, a newer offering that explores contemporary documentaries. Most sessions take place at the Sooke Library, except for Movies, and some are available by Zoom. Scroll down for full descriptions.
Based on the Elder College model, SRLL functions as a working group under the auspices of the Sooke Region Communities Health Network (SRCHN) and in partnership with the Sooke Library. Our mission is first and foremost to provide stimulating, sociable, and free learning opportunities that address the unique and diverse interests of our community. For more information, email us at sookeregionlifelonglearning@gmail.com.
Please note: We try to ensure all of our information is as accurate as possible, but last-minute changes do happen and we are not able to keep this website updated. If you choose to drop-in to our programs, please double-check with our registrar at the above email address.
FRIENDS OF SRLL PROGRAM
Everyone should have access to lifelong learning and personal growth opportunities, regardless of age, background, or finances. That’s why SRLL is free for all, with 15 to 20 learning opportunities provided each term by volunteer presenters.
We do have some minor expenses, which is why the “Friends of SRLL” program began in 2024: For a gift of $20, Friends get early registration privileges for two upcoming terms, or one year. To become a Friend, speak to the host at any SRLL session. Your email address will be added to our Friends database, and you will be notified when early registration begins for the next term. There is also a button below you can click to become a Friend.
Thank you for considering this opportunity to support Sooke Region Lifelong Learning!
SRLL FALL 2025 PROGRAM TITLES
1. MEET THE PRESENTERS
Number of sessions: 1
Date and time: Thursday, September 11, 1:30 – 3:00pm
Location: Sooke Library Multipurpose Room
Come and hear our presenters give a preview of their upcoming programs and join us for some good food with good friends to start off the new term. Walk-ins are very welcome, but it helps with our planning if you register.
Hosted by the SRLL Steering Committee–Carolyn Bateman, Lorrie Beauchamp, Jack Gegenberg, Tim Traynor, and Hester Vair.
2. Democracy: Understanding It Globally, Protecting It Nationally
Number of sessions: 1
Date and time: Tuesday, September 16, 1:30 – 3:00pm
Location: Sooke Library Multipurpose Room
As a fierce defender of democracy, Sue Elrington wants us to talk about it. The U.S. is no longer an objectively functioning democracy; in light of how quickly this happened, what do other democracies, including Canada, need to do to safeguard their cherished freedoms? This one-part session welcomes all questions and discussions from participants, and will be limited to 30 individuals.
Sue Elrington is a career journalist and active community volunteer, having assisted in the creation of Sooke’s first coffee co-operative (Café Vosino) as well as Sooke’s recently launched online radio station (Sooke.live). She is a former SRLL presenter, is now a local broadcaster, and enjoys sharing and discussing the important issues of the day.
3. WORLD EVENTS
Number of sessions: 2
Dates and time: Wednesdays, September 17, October 15, 1:30 – 3:00pm
Location: on Zoom
It’s been eight months since the U.S. installed a new president. How has that affected world events so far this year? This will certainly be one of the many topics we hope to discuss, but there are many other worthy topics as well. There’s never a lack of interesting or thought-provoking conversations during
World Events. Join us on ZOOM this fall.
Chris Moss is a long-time follower of news and world events and has been involved with SRLL since 2017.
Please share!
4. Understanding the Foundations of AI
Number of sessions: 2
Dates and time: Thursdays, September 18, 25 1:30 – 3:00pm
Location: Sooke Library Multipurpose Room
In two sessions, we explore the connections between artificial intelligence, machine learning, and deep learning. We develop code in class to demonstrate how machines can “learn.” Students can bring their own laptops and actively engage in coding, or simply observe. In the second session, we build on the concepts demonstrated through the coding examples from the first session. We explore the development of more sophisticated deep learning models, including a review of the “transformer” architecture that underpins current AI models. We’ll also examine the strengths and weaknesses of these models and discuss potential advancements in AI, particularly intellectual capabilities and consciousness. Sessions are in-person at the library and hosted by Jack Gegenberg, with our presenter on Zoom.
Dr. Jonathan Ziprick earned his PhD in physics from the University of Waterloo. He currently serves as an instructor in the Math and Science Department at RRC Polytech in Winnipeg. Before joining RRC Polytech, Dr. Ziprick was a Postdoctoral Fellow in Theoretical Physics at both the University of Winnipeg and the University of New Brunswick.
5. Language and AI
Number of sessions: 2
Dates and time: Thursdays, October 9, 23 1:30 – 3:00pm
Location: Sooke Library Multipurpose Room
The first session with Curtis Wagter explores how our conversations with AI, like ChatGPT, echo familiar cultural debates and anxieties about technology, identity, and human connection. We’ll examine parallels between language in AI and in psychological models of personality. Building on this, we’ll look at adaptive and maladaptive uses of AI in emotional contexts, with illustrated examples—from moments of genuine support to the dangers of blind reassurance. Along the way, we’ll unpack the psychological
mechanisms shaping these interactions. Listeners will leave with a richer understanding of not only how AI fits into the world, but how they fit into the world of AI.
The second session with Incé Husain explores how AI large language models, like ChatGPT, influence human politics, culture, clinical settings, and legal systems. We’ll discuss how language models have been used to further political motives and propaganda; the sociocultural norms inherent in the verbal outputs of language models; how language models fare when replacing humans, like therapists, in clinical settings; and how language models are interpreted in the legal system when they (and the corporations
that created them) are involved in court cases. These topics will be discussed with reference to recent news stories on language models in these human contexts.
Both sessions will be in-person at the library and hosted by Jack Gegenberg, with our presenters on Zoom.
Curtis Wagter is an Honours Psychology student at Western University. His research explores how people use chat-based generative AI for emotional support and self-reflection. He’s interested in clinical applications of technology, emotion regulation, and the psychology of the digital self.
Incé Husain
is a neuroscience PhD student at Western University and a journalist with independent press. Her research is on the cerebellum brain region’s role in cognition, while her journalism covers sociopolitical issues. She is interested in how chat-based AI influences sociopolitical sensibilities and is compared to the human brain.
6. Doc & Talk
Number of sessions: 3
Dates and time: Tuesdays, September 23, October 7, 21, 1:30 – 3:00pm
Location: Sooke Library Multipurpose Room
Documentaries abound in our high-tech world, and there are many fascinating and controversial ones that deserve our collective attention. These sessions are roundtable discussions, with all opinions and insights welcome. We encourage a space of lively sharing and debate, safe from censorship. For the first session, participants are asked to watch The Story of Plastic and Sensory Overload, both available on VIRL’s Kanopy free streaming site. Doc & Talk is now in its third term; session size is limited so register early.
Lorrie Beauchamp is a volunteer member of SRLL’s Steering Committee, a passionate advocate of lifelong learning, and a cinephile who averages five movies and/or documentaries a week. Then she annoys her friends trying to discuss them, so she thought, why not make it a group learning opportunity?g club.
7. Energy Healing: A Holistic Option
Number of sessions: 1
Date and time: Wednesday, October 1, 1:30 – 3:00pm
Location: Sooke Library Multipurpose Room
Reiki energy treatments have been known to relieve pain, stress, stored trauma, sleep deprivation, feelings of guilt, resentment and anxiety. Clients often report feeling more balanced, calm, and relaxed and have a
better sense of well-being after their treatments. Energy healing uses a non-invasive technique that doesn't interfere with medications or treatments the individual is currently undergoing. Sessions are offered using a gentle hands-on or hands-off touch and can also be offered remotely for those with physical, mental, emotional, and geographical limitations. Amanda will share her personal story with energy healing and the power of crystals.
Amanda Petronis is a certified Usui/Holy Fire Reiki Master and practitioner who recently opened a local practice for the Sooke community. She and her husband also own the Owl’s Perch treehouse, a favourite with visiting tourists.
8. Wonder Words
Number of sessions: 1
Date and time: Thursday, October 2, 1:30 – 3:00pm
Location: Sooke Library Multipurpose Room
Words have power. They have meaning and significance. They have nuance and connotation. So how do you choose the right words for your story or poem? Through examples, tips and exercises, participants are
given an overview of why words matter, practical tools they can use in their own writing and revising, and fun and engaging writing exercises to help them choose the best word for the situation. Applicable to prose writers and poets at all levels from beginner to experienced writer.
DK Eve is a multiple award-winning author inspired by the people and places of southern Vancouver Island in the traditional territory of the T’Sou-ke people. Her work is featured in eleven anthologies, the latest Writings from the Living Edge (Sooke Writers’ Collective, 2025). She enjoys sharing what she learns and leads workshops on writing fiction, creative non-fiction, as well as branding and marketing for writers, artists, and not-for-profit organizations.
9. Physics of the Tides:
A Predictive Model for the Pacific Ocean
Number of sessions: 1
Date and time: Tuesday, October 14, 1:30 – 3:00pm
Location: Sooke Library Multipurpose Room
In an effort to understand the physics of tides, Sid Jorna has developed a tidal prediction model for the Pacific Ocean that uses elements of celestial navigation and spherical trigonometry to determine the interplay of the sun, moon, and earth’s rotation. The model also factors in the relative orbital effects of perigee and apogee, the effect of the continents of the Pacific basin, and returns the height of tide at Neah Bay for any date and time in 2025. Sid will present some mathematical equations but use them in a
descriptive manner that most should find interesting.
Sid Jorna holds a BSc in physics and mathematics and an MSC in electrical engineering. As a naval officer, he was trained in ocean navigation. He is fascinated by the phenomenon of tides and hopes to demonstrate the physics involved using the first principles of Newtonian physics.
10. SRLL Book Club:
The Revenge of the Tipping Point
by Malcolm Gladwell
Number of sessions: 2
Dates and time: Thursday, October 16, November 13, 1:30 – 3:00pm
Location: Sooke Library Multipurpose Room
Malcolm Gladwell’s commentary on our society is incisive and unafraid of controversy. While the session will focus on The Revenge of the Tipping Point, we will refer also to Talking to Strangers - We Should Know About the People We Don’t Know. The library will have book club sets for both titles available well before the session.
As a Canadian media correspondent, Tim Traynor carried out assignments in international journalism. He later worked for federal government departments in the fields of foreign affairs, energy, and international cultural relations.
11. Movies in the Afternoon
Number of sessions: 6
Dates and time: Wednesdays, October 22, 29, November 5, 19, 26, Friday, November 21, 1:30 – 4:00pm
Location: TBA upon registration
In this recurring SRLL favourite, each term six films are chosen around a central theme. We all watch them together, then discuss them over juice and cookies. The theme this fall is “The Beast Within.” The films to be shown, but not necessarily in this order, are:
- Forbidden Planet, 1956, USA (Fred M. Wilcox, director)
- Lord of the Flies, 1963, UK (Peter Brook)
- Aguirre, the Wrath of God, 1972, Germany (Werner Herzog)
- Othello, 1965, UK (Stuart Burge)
- Mr. Brooks, 2007, USA (Bruce A. Evans)
- The Virgin Spring, 1960, Sweden (Ingmar Bergman)
Jack Gegenberg is a retired theoretical physicist. Besides watching films and stressing over how to move on from capitalism, he spends his time working on how to reconcile quantum theory and Einstein’s theory of gravity. He has lived in Sooke for eight years. Chris Irvine is originally from Kingston, Ontario, and has lived and taught in NWT, the Eastern Arctic and the Western Subarctic for the past 36 years. He taught sciences, art, and music until retiring four years ago to Sooke. He has a keen and vast knowledge
of film.
12. Into the Blue:
Getting Started with Open Water Swimming
Number of sessions: 1
Date and time: Friday, October 24, 1:30 – 3:00pm
Location: Sooke Library Multipurpose Room
Curious about open water swimming? In this panel discussion, headed by cold water swimmer Abbie Morris, we’ll dive into the essentials of the sport, including how to get started safely, what gear you need, and how to build your skills and confidence in the water. Whether you’re a pool swimmer looking for a new challenge or someone drawn to nature and adventure, open water swimming offers a unique and invigorating experience for people of any age group.
Abbie Morris is an avid open-water swimmer who finds connection and calm in nature. She loves introducing newcomers to the benefits of outdoor swimming and brings a friendly, grounded approach to helping others feel safe and inspired in the water. She will be joined by other cold water enthusiasts to be decided at a later date. This program has been developed in partnership with the Sooke Chamber of Commerce.
13.
Colonialism, Neocolonialism, and the Logic of Imperialism
Number of sessions: 3
Dates and time:
Tuesdays, October 28, November 4,
Wednesday, November 12, 1:30 – 3:00pm
Location: Sooke Library Multipurpose Room
This three-part program will attempt to facilitate an understanding of the form, content, and mechanics of colonial and neocolonial exploitation in the framework of global imperialism and capitalist decay. We’ll focus on the following:
- What is the motive force behind colonial exploitation?
- How does the ideological justification for colonialism relate to its economic dynamics?
- How did earlier forms of colonialism differ from later forms?
- Under what conditions were anticolonial movements able to achieve successes against European empires? Have those conditions changed?
- Have former colonies and semi-colonies maintained political and economic independence? Have standards of living risen or fallen in recent years, and why?
Tyson Riel Strandlund, MA, BA, is an anti-fascist activist, historian, and author who has served in leading roles in a range of progressive movements in Victoria and across Canada. He studied at the University of Victoria and the Kyiv-Mohyla academy in Ukraine. His writings have been published in Canada and elsewhere. Tyson is a proud member of the Métis Nation, with both his scholarly and political projects reflecting a respect for Indigenous knowledge and experience combined with rigorous scientific methodology.
14. Bears: Our Wild Neighbours
Number of sessions: 1
Date and time: Thursday, October 30, 1:30 – 3:00pm
Location: Sooke Library Multipurpose Room
Join us for an engaging and educational talk all about bears—our wild neighbours and vital members of local ecosystems. In this session, you’ll learn about the fascinating lifecycle of bears, from cubs to adulthood, and how their behaviour changes with the seasons. We’ll explore their feeding patterns, from spring foraging to fall hyperphagia, and the crucial role these behaviours play in their survival. Most important, we’ll discuss effective strategies for co-existing with bears and reducing human-wildlife conflict—whether as a hiker, homeowner, renter, or land manager. This talk will leave you better informed and empowered to make a positive impact in co-existing responsibly with our wild neighbours.
Mollie Cameron is a passionate wildlife educator, president of the Wild Wise Society, and also leads the Cougar Coexistence Initiative, a conservation project that uses trail cameras to monitor cougar activity, raise awareness, and protect critical wildlife corridors from development. A talented wildlife
photographer, her work inspires and informs, helping to deepen our understanding of the natural world.
15. Are All Feminisms Equal?
Number of sessions: 3
Dates and time: Thursdays, November 6, 20, 27, 1:30 – 3:00pm
Location: Sooke Library Multipurpose Room
Different schools of feminist thought have different ideas about women’s nature and what the liberation of women would look like–and these differences matter because not all feminisms are equally likely to improve women’s position in society. We will look at various schools of feminist thought and try to place our own understandings of women’s issues in this framework. Then we will try to answer two questions: Do any of the ideas that underlie various feminisms pose a problem for the kind of world we’d like to build? Can we effectively marry ideas from different feminisms?
Hester Vair took an eclectic path through academe, studying geography and economics as an undergraduate, followed by an interdisciplinary Masters studying social change and environmental philosophy, and eventually finding a home in sociology, where she got her PhD. Her dissertation
focussed on feminist theory, and the tensions between family and work.
16. From Field to Table: The Art of Sustainable Hunting
Number of sessions: 1
Date and time: Friday, November 14, 1:30 – 3:00pm
Location: Sooke Library Multipurpose Room
In this session, we’ll explore ethical hunting, conservation, and the essential skills needed to responsibly harvest game. We’ll discuss firearm safety, hunting techniques, and how hunting fits into a sustainable, self-sufficient lifestyle. Whether you’re curious about hunting or looking to expand your knowledge, this session will provide valuable insights.
Tyson Schenk has more than 40 years of firearm experience and 30 years as a seasoned hunter in British Columbia. His passion for conservation education led him to host information sessions introducing non-hunters to responsible hunting practices. With a background in training, Tyson brings extensive teaching experience to his mission of promoting ethical, informed, and sustainable hunting. This program has been developed in partnership with the Sooke Chamber of Commerce.
17. The Secretive World of Cougars
Number of sessions: 1
Date and time: Tuesday, November 18, 1:30 – 3:00pm
Location: Sooke Library Multipurpose Room
Discover the secretive world of these powerful predators in this eye-opening talk designed to deepen our understanding of cougars. You’ll learn about their lifecycle—from solitary kittens to stealthy adults. We’ll explore their feeding habits, hunting strategies, and the critical role they play in maintaining healthy ecosystems. The session also covers how to recognize signs of cougar presence in the wild, such as tracks, scrapes, scat, and prey remains. You’ll gain practical tips on how to stay safe in cougar country, as
well as proven methods for reducing conflict—whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or simply existing on shared landscapes. This talk will equip you with the knowledge and tools to better coexist with cougars, as well as understand them.
Mollie Cameron is a passionate wildlife educator, president of the Wild Wise Society, and also leads the Cougar Coexistence Initiative, a conservation project that uses trail cameras to monitor cougar activity, raise awareness, and protect critical wildlife corridors from development. A talented wildlife
photographer, her work inspires and informs, helping to deepen our understanding of the natural world.
18. Optimizing Your Natural Immunity
Number of sessions: 1
Date and time: Tuesday, November 25, 1:30 – 3:00pm
Location: Sooke Library Multipurpose Room
Does it seem as if you or those you care for just can’t shake that flu or cold? Bothered by constant or recurring infections? Learn how diet and nutrition affect your immune system’s ability to function optimally and what to take and what to avoid the minute cold or flu symptoms appear to nip them in the bud. Discover effective, safe, natural antivirals, antibacterials, and antifungals that should be in every medicine chest.
Jo Phillips has been a Registered Nutritional Consultant (RNC) for 30 years and is a retired community health nurse. She has given nutrition consults and workshops on nutrition for places as varied as Camosun College Continuing Education, Alcohol and Drug Services day program, and CUPE SD #62 Wellness Days. She continues to upgrade her nutrition expertise via conferences and education and enjoys sharing her knowledge about being and feeling healthy as we age.
19. End-of-Term Thank You Gathering
Number of sessions: 1
Date and time: Thursday, December 4, 1:30 – 3:00pm
Location: Sooke Library Multipurpose Room
Everyone is welcome to our end-of-term thank-you gathering to wrap up the fall term for 2025. Enjoy some good food with good friends as well as some spirited conversation about the many topics presented during the semester. And feel free to offer some suggestions for the coming spring 2026 term. We always enjoy hearing ideas from our community. Walk-ins are very welcome, but it helps with our planning if you register.
Hosted by the SRLL Steering Committee–Carolyn Bateman, Lorrie Beauchamp, Jack Gegenberg, Tim Traynor, and Hester Vair.
SRLL PAST PROGRAMS
