Ryan has immersed himself in diverse sets of knowledge and experience as a national class marathon runner; at-risk youth worker, Indigenous health policy writer/analyst, and Kukpi7 (Chief) of Bonaparte Indian band of the Secwepemc Nation. As well he holds a degree in Economics, and a Masters degree in Indigenous Governance. Being mixed race, raised away from his homelands then finding and immersing himself amongst his Secewpemc family, community, and lands, Ryan has the privilege of experiencing the birth of a land and people-based identity. His perspective spans working with the most disempowered to the highest government officials; from the competitive behaviour of western economics to Secwepemc natural law; from the individualism of competitive sport to the service of family, community and Nation.