Caitlin Taylor’s year-long Saskatchewan journey has ended.
After serving as the 2014 Saskatchewanderer, the 22-year-old will return to the University of Saskatchewan in January to continue her studies.
Throughout the past year, Taylor showcased Saskatchewan to the world. She produced, shot and edited more than 30 videos. Through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, she gained more than 4,500 new followers.
Taylor was the first Saskatchewanderer ever to travel outside of the province. She visited Toronto for a national trade skills competition – and while there took to the downtown streets and shot “Talking with Torontonians” – one of her most-watched videos of the past year.
She was also the first Wanderer to land in Athabasca Sand Dunes Provincial Park, home to the world’s most northerly sand dunes. The video highlighting that trip is her most popular of the year with more than 7,000 views on YouTube alone.
“I am sad that my year is coming to a close, but grateful that I had this opportunity,” Taylor said. “If I could meet and speak with the next Saskatchewanderer, I would say: You will meet kind, intelligent people – artists, business owners, scientists, farmers – who are excited about what they do in this province. You will witness spectacular scenery – valleys, forests and crystal-clear lakes. You will learn so much and you will fall in love with Saskatchewan. Get ready for one of the best years of your life.”
In addition to experiencing new destinations, Taylor interviewed successful artists, athletes and business owners who all call Saskatchewan home, including Life of Pi author Yann Martel, tornado hunter Greg Johnson and NHLer (and farmer) Keith Aulie.
“The Saskatchewanderer program brings profile to the destinations, attractions and events that showcase Saskatchewan hospitality and entice visitors,” Minister responsible for Tourism Saskatchewan Jeremy Harrison said. “As a four-season destination, Saskatchewan offers great diversity in tourism experiences. The stories and adventures shared on social media by the 2015 Saskatchewanderer will generate interest in Saskatchewan as a great place to travel, work, establish a home and raise a family.”
Applications for the 2015 Saskatchewanderer position closed Dec. 1. The project’s partners – Tourism Saskatchewan, and the Ministries of Economy, Agriculture and Parks, Culture and Sport, are currently selecting the candidate who will start wandering the province in January.
