News release

Behind the Badge- Cst Kelsey Mjaaland

March 30, 2026 - Nanaimo, British Columbia
From: Nanaimo RCMP

Content

Where she's from

Born and raised an Islander, I grew up in Nanoose Bay on Vancouver Island—so yes, ferry schedules and weather debates are practically second nature. After graduating from Depot, I was posted straight to Nanaimo, where I’ve now spent the past three years working in General Duty, with the bonus of serving the community I’ve long called home.

Education

• Bachelor of Arts degree from Vancouver Island University 
  • Major in Criminology
  • Minor in Psychology (surprisingly useful both on and off duty)
• Completed one year of the RMOT Diploma program 
  • Focused on the protection and management of parks, wildlife, and fisheries
  • Gained a healthy respect for wildlife—especially anything bigger than me

Previous Work Experience

• Worked as a mobile security guard for a forestry company while attending university 
  • Spent plenty of time navigating logging roads and learning the Island’s backroad system
  • Learned which “shortcuts” actually save time and which absolutely do not
• Trained for a Natural Resource Officer role shortly before receiving the call to Depot 
  • At the time, the ultimate dream opportunity
• Always drawn to challenging roles that allow me to work with people and make a meaningful difference in the community

Pets & Hobbies

• Have a dog (pictured) who I adopted and brought home from Regina after graduating from Depot
• Spend off-duty time exploring Vancouver Island together 
  • Hiking new trails
  • Discovering waterfalls
  • Taking in scenic viewpoints
• My dog enjoys every part of the adventure; my enthusiasm depends on how steep the trail is

If you see Kelsey out and about in the community, be sure to say hi—she’s a people person who loves connecting with others and getting to know the people she serves.

Contacts