History of Sila

Sila Sojourns was founded in 1992 by Jill Pangman and Joyce Majiski. Both wildlife biologists by training, we were each guiding for Ecosummer Yukon Expeditions at the time, a well-established adventure tour company. Ecosummer’s focus on natural history interpretation suited us, as did the pristine nature of the locations we were guiding in. Eventually, however, we wanted to offer trips of our own design, some of which could be slower-paced and more conducive to self-reflection and creative expression. We felt that the more our sojourns nurtured an intimate connection with the natural world the more rejuvenating and meaningful they would be.

I (Jill) have been sole proprietor of Sila Sojourns since 2003, hiring other leaders to assist me on the journeys when needed. My wildlife biologist husband, Bruce McLean, also supports in myriads of ways behind the scenes, and our son, Caelan, equally passionate about the wilds, assists on some of the trips. Joyce chose to pursue her art career full time, one that has been deeply influenced by her experiences in the natural world of the Yukon and beyond. ( www.joycemajiski.ca)

I have chosen to keep Sila Sojourns a small business, so that I can lead each trip myself, and still have time for conservation work, creative endeavours, personal wilderness journeys and parenting. I am grateful for how Sila has enriched my life, and that of my guests, through sharing transformative experiences with fabulous people in incredible landscapes!