Meet our Members 
Central to the Women for Nature initiative is the opportunity to tell the story of the positive impact honourees have had on our nature and in our communities. We applaud their initiative and commitment to nature. Their generous support and involvement as Ambassadors of our work is much appreciated. Click on the names to read about these remarkable women.
Honourary Chair: The Honourable Rosa Galvez 
Chairs Emeritus: Hon. Janis G. Johnson (retired)Hon. Janis G. Johnson (retired)
Senator Johnson has dedicated her career to serving Canadians in politics, business and the arts. As a young woman, she set ambitious goals for herself, but never dreamed she would have the honour to serve in many prominent positions within her community and her country. Her passion for social justice and equality for women led her to study political science, graduate to a career working in politics, and run her own business. In the 1980s, Johnson became the first woman to establish and chair the federal Progressive Conservative Women’s Caucus. Subsequently, she became the first female National Director of the PC Party of Canada in 1983. After working in business throughout the decade, she was called to the Senate of Canada by former Prime Minister Brian Mulroney in 1990. Johnson was the first woman stemming from the Icelandic community of Canada to be appointed to the Upper Chamber. She will tell you her volunteer work has been equally rewarding. She has worked on campaigns and served on the boards of two universities, the YM/YWCA, Special Olympics Manitoba and Canada, the Winnipeg Art Gallery and several women’s health programs. Senator Johnson raised a family, is an “amma” now and her greatest joy is taking her young grandsons on walks along Gimli Beach, where she has a home. Lake Winnipeg has played a huge role in Johnson’s life. She has worked on issues affecting the health of the lake and it is where she feels closest to nature. Indeed, her love of nature was spawned there. She founded the Gimli Film Festival 13 years ago featuring a large screen planted in the lake allowing people to watch movies under the stars and see the marvel of the Northern Lights. It is yet another wonderful tourist attraction in her beloved community. Senator Johnson is honoured to partner with Women for Nature to celebrate nature’s profound impact on us all.
Senator Johnson has dedicated her career to serving Canadians in politics, business and the arts. As a young woman, she set ambitious goals for herself, but never dreamed she would have the honour to serve in many prominent positions within her community and her country. Her passion for social justice and equality for women led her to study political science, graduate to a career working in politics, and run her own business. In the 1980s, Johnson became the first woman to establish and chair the federal Progressive Conservative Women’s Caucus. Subsequently, she became the first female National Director of the PC Party of Canada in 1983. After working in business throughout the decade, she was called to the Senate of Canada by former Prime Minister Brian Mulroney in 1990. Johnson was the first woman stemming from the Icelandic community of Canada to be appointed to the Upper Chamber. She will tell you her volunteer work has been equally rewarding. She has worked on campaigns and served on the boards of two universities, the YM/YWCA, Special Olympics Manitoba and Canada, the Winnipeg Art Gallery and several women’s health programs. Senator Johnson raised a family, is an “amma” now and her greatest joy is taking her young grandsons on walks along Gimli Beach, where she has a home. Lake Winnipeg has played a huge role in Johnson’s life. She has worked on issues affecting the health of the lake and it is where she feels closest to nature. Indeed, her love of nature was spawned there. She founded the Gimli Film Festival 13 years ago featuring a large screen planted in the lake allowing people to watch movies under the stars and see the marvel of the Northern Lights. It is yet another wonderful tourist attraction in her beloved community. Senator Johnson is honoured to partner with Women for Nature to celebrate nature’s profound impact on us all.
Hon. Diane GriffinHon. Diane Griffin
The out of doors and a passion for its preservation have driven Senator Diane Griffin in all her endeavors. She was recognized for her work as early as 1985 when she was selected as Canadian Outdoorsman of the Year, and she hasn't stopped since. She is a former PEI Deputy Minister of Environment and Energy. A prolific writer, she published a book of Atlantic Wildflowers and has penned numerous articles on a wide range of topics including agricultural and trade policies, eco-economics, national forest strategy, natural heritage. The nature organizations to which her name has been attached cover the gamut from national, like Nature Canada, Bird Studies Canada, Nature Conservancy Canada to provincial, Island Nature Trust and The Natural History Society of P.E.I. Diane was also awarded Nature Canada's Pimlott Award for her lifetime of conservation work. As a former President and current member of Nature Canada's Board of Directors, her voice and passion has shaped our work and we are pleased to highlight her commitment as a founding member of Women for Nature.
Kathy AbusowKathy Abusow
Kathy Abusow is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Sustainable Forestry Initiative, Inc. (SFI®), where she works with government organizations, companies and conservation groups to promote forest certification. Under Kathy’s leadership, SFI Inc. established a multi-million dollar conservation research grant program, which included funding the World Resources Institute’s risk information tool to assist with the avoidance of illegal logging and in 2012 SFI Inc. launched the SFI Forest Partners Program which works with founding partners Time Inc., National Geographic Society, Macmillan and Pearson to increase the levels of forest certification to address the growing demand by responsible corporations who seek low-risk certified forest products in the supply chain. A sought after speaker, Kathy has led and moderated discussions at Fortune Brainstorm Green on themes related to supply chain management and the new economics of land, she has spoken at RISI’s North American Forest Products Conference on Evaluating the Business Case for Sustainable Practices. Most recently she spoke at The Economist’s World Forest Summit in Stockholm on a panel that addressed illegal logging and timber regulations, as well as the World Business Council on Sustainable Development's Forest Solutions Working Group. She also sits on several Boards including the Canadian Forestry Association and the World Forestry Centre. Kathy earned an undergraduate degree from McGill University and a M.A. from Harvard University with a concentration in sustainable development of natural resources.
The out of doors and a passion for its preservation have driven Senator Diane Griffin in all her endeavors. She was recognized for her work as early as 1985 when she was selected as Canadian Outdoorsman of the Year, and she hasn't stopped since. She is a former PEI Deputy Minister of Environment and Energy. A prolific writer, she published a book of Atlantic Wildflowers and has penned numerous articles on a wide range of topics including agricultural and trade policies, eco-economics, national forest strategy, natural heritage. The nature organizations to which her name has been attached cover the gamut from national, like Nature Canada, Bird Studies Canada, Nature Conservancy Canada to provincial, Island Nature Trust and The Natural History Society of P.E.I. Diane was also awarded Nature Canada's Pimlott Award for her lifetime of conservation work. As a former President and current member of Nature Canada's Board of Directors, her voice and passion has shaped our work and we are pleased to highlight her commitment as a founding member of Women for Nature.
Kathy Abusow is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Sustainable Forestry Initiative, Inc. (SFI®), where she works with government organizations, companies and conservation groups to promote forest certification. Under Kathy’s leadership, SFI Inc. established a multi-million dollar conservation research grant program, which included funding the World Resources Institute’s risk information tool to assist with the avoidance of illegal logging and in 2012 SFI Inc. launched the SFI Forest Partners Program which works with founding partners Time Inc., National Geographic Society, Macmillan and Pearson to increase the levels of forest certification to address the growing demand by responsible corporations who seek low-risk certified forest products in the supply chain. A sought after speaker, Kathy has led and moderated discussions at Fortune Brainstorm Green on themes related to supply chain management and the new economics of land, she has spoken at RISI’s North American Forest Products Conference on Evaluating the Business Case for Sustainable Practices. Most recently she spoke at The Economist’s World Forest Summit in Stockholm on a panel that addressed illegal logging and timber regulations, as well as the World Business Council on Sustainable Development's Forest Solutions Working Group. She also sits on several Boards including the Canadian Forestry Association and the World Forestry Centre. Kathy earned an undergraduate degree from McGill University and a M.A. from Harvard University with a concentration in sustainable development of natural resources.
Stella AmblerStella Ambler
Since the 2011 general election, Stella Ambler has served the citizens of Mississauga South, as their Member of Parliament. Prior to this, Stella served as the Director of Regional Affairs for the Hon. Jim Flaherty, then Minister of Finance and Minister for the Greater Toronto Area.Active locally, Stella has provided leadership on the Mississauga Board of Trade’s Green Committee and been involved with efforts to help restore the Rattray Marsh. Early in her career, after earning her psychology degree from the University of Toronto, Stella worked as an advisor at Queen’s Park. She was also a stay at home mother for nine years maintaining her community and political involvement on a volunteer basis. In Parliament, she currently serves as a member of the Standing Committee on the Environment and Sustainable Development, the Status of Women Parliamentary Standing Committee and Chaired the Special Committee on Violence against Aboriginal Women. Her passion for this issue is one of the many ways Stella Ambler reveals her drive to create a better world.
Hon. Rona Ambrose
Since the 2011 general election, Stella Ambler has served the citizens of Mississauga South, as their Member of Parliament. Prior to this, Stella served as the Director of Regional Affairs for the Hon. Jim Flaherty, then Minister of Finance and Minister for the Greater Toronto Area.Active locally, Stella has provided leadership on the Mississauga Board of Trade’s Green Committee and been involved with efforts to help restore the Rattray Marsh. Early in her career, after earning her psychology degree from the University of Toronto, Stella worked as an advisor at Queen’s Park. She was also a stay at home mother for nine years maintaining her community and political involvement on a volunteer basis. In Parliament, she currently serves as a member of the Standing Committee on the Environment and Sustainable Development, the Status of Women Parliamentary Standing Committee and Chaired the Special Committee on Violence against Aboriginal Women. Her passion for this issue is one of the many ways Stella Ambler reveals her drive to create a better world.
Kristin Anderson Kristin AndersonKristin Anderson is the Calgary-based Vice President, Public Affairs and General Manager of Alberta and the Prairies with Global Public Affairs, Canada’s largest public affairs and strategic communications consultancy.
Kristin is a Calgary native with deep roots in the corporate, government, and community sectors. She has over ten years’ experience providing senior strategic counsel and guidance to clients navigating some of the most complex public policy challenges in the country. Her expertise is to take a wide-angle view of the stakeholder landscape, to understand how the pieces fit together and to build advocacy strategies that drive successful outcomes for clients. As Global’s senior executive in Alberta and the Prairies, she has been engaged in a broad range of sectoral issues including energy, transportation, pipelines, forestry, and financial services. Prior to joining Global, Kristin worked in marketing communications at Nortel Networks and in Stephen Harper’s Office of the Leader of the Official Opposition. She sits on the Board of Directors of Propellus, the Volunteer and Capacity Building Centre of Calgary and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Calgary.
Margaret AtwoodMargaret Atwood
Margaret Atwood is a celebrated Canadian poet, novelist, literary critic, essayist, and environmental activist. Born in 1939 in Ottawa, she grew up in northern Ontario and Quebec, and in Toronto. She received her undergraduate degree from Victoria College at the University of Toronto and her master’s degree from Radcliffe College. Margaret Atwood is the author of more than forty volumes of poetry, children’s literature, fiction, and non-fiction, but is best known for her novels, which include The Edible Woman, The Handmaid’s Tale,The Robber Bride, Alias Grace, and The Blind Assassin, which won the prestigious Booker Prize in 2000. Her newest novel, MaddAddam), is the final volume in a three-book series that began with the Man-Booker prize-nominated Oryx and Crake). Ms. Atwood’s work has been published in more than forty languages. She and her husband, Graeme Gibson are the Joint Honourary Presidents of the Rare Bird Society within BirdLife International. Through this role, she has been a supporter of Nature Canada’s efforts to conserve Canada’s rich natural patrimony.
Dominica BabickiDominica Babicki
Dominica Babicki has worked in the sustainability, environment and planning fields locally, nationally and internationally for close to 25 years. Her background includes extensive experience with the non-profit sector, government, and academia. Her work reflects a desire to contribute to research and bridge ideas between continents, levels of government, and organizations around environment and sustainable development issues. She worked for the International Centre for Sustainable Cities (later Sustainable Cities International) for 15 years and has also been a researcher and lecturer at the University of Manchester, and an energy manager for the District of North Vancouver. Over her career, Dominica has sat on numerous boards including as a board member of Sustainable Cities International, founding board member of the Vancouver Chapter of the Urban Land Institute, board member of the Community Energy Association, and member of the International Committee of the Canadian Institute of Planners. Her studies reflect a passion for trans-disciplinary thinking and international collaboration (B.A. – UBC, Political Science/French Literature; M.A. – Carleton, Political Economy; M.R.M. – SFU, Resource and Environmental Management). Currently, she is seeking a PhD in geography on issues related to climate change, energy and cities which is jointly supervised by scholars from Aix-Marseille University in France and the University of Western Ontario in Canada. A common thread in her professional and personal life is a fundamental belief that the human species must learn and respect the laws of nature in order that we may all thrive. We are delighted to have Dominica involved with Women for Nature.
Kristin Anderson is the Calgary-based Vice President, Public Affairs and General Manager of Alberta and the Prairies with Global Public Affairs, Canada’s largest public affairs and strategic communications consultancy.
Kristin is a Calgary native with deep roots in the corporate, government, and community sectors. She has over ten years’ experience providing senior strategic counsel and guidance to clients navigating some of the most complex public policy challenges in the country. Her expertise is to take a wide-angle view of the stakeholder landscape, to understand how the pieces fit together and to build advocacy strategies that drive successful outcomes for clients. As Global’s senior executive in Alberta and the Prairies, she has been engaged in a broad range of sectoral issues including energy, transportation, pipelines, forestry, and financial services. Prior to joining Global, Kristin worked in marketing communications at Nortel Networks and in Stephen Harper’s Office of the Leader of the Official Opposition. She sits on the Board of Directors of Propellus, the Volunteer and Capacity Building Centre of Calgary and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Calgary.
Margaret Atwood is a celebrated Canadian poet, novelist, literary critic, essayist, and environmental activist. Born in 1939 in Ottawa, she grew up in northern Ontario and Quebec, and in Toronto. She received her undergraduate degree from Victoria College at the University of Toronto and her master’s degree from Radcliffe College. Margaret Atwood is the author of more than forty volumes of poetry, children’s literature, fiction, and non-fiction, but is best known for her novels, which include The Edible Woman, The Handmaid’s Tale,The Robber Bride, Alias Grace, and The Blind Assassin, which won the prestigious Booker Prize in 2000. Her newest novel, MaddAddam), is the final volume in a three-book series that began with the Man-Booker prize-nominated Oryx and Crake). Ms. Atwood’s work has been published in more than forty languages. She and her husband, Graeme Gibson are the Joint Honourary Presidents of the Rare Bird Society within BirdLife International. Through this role, she has been a supporter of Nature Canada’s efforts to conserve Canada’s rich natural patrimony.
Dominica Babicki has worked in the sustainability, environment and planning fields locally, nationally and internationally for close to 25 years. Her background includes extensive experience with the non-profit sector, government, and academia. Her work reflects a desire to contribute to research and bridge ideas between continents, levels of government, and organizations around environment and sustainable development issues. She worked for the International Centre for Sustainable Cities (later Sustainable Cities International) for 15 years and has also been a researcher and lecturer at the University of Manchester, and an energy manager for the District of North Vancouver. Over her career, Dominica has sat on numerous boards including as a board member of Sustainable Cities International, founding board member of the Vancouver Chapter of the Urban Land Institute, board member of the Community Energy Association, and member of the International Committee of the Canadian Institute of Planners. Her studies reflect a passion for trans-disciplinary thinking and international collaboration (B.A. – UBC, Political Science/French Literature; M.A. – Carleton, Political Economy; M.R.M. – SFU, Resource and Environmental Management). Currently, she is seeking a PhD in geography on issues related to climate change, energy and cities which is jointly supervised by scholars from Aix-Marseille University in France and the University of Western Ontario in Canada. A common thread in her professional and personal life is a fundamental belief that the human species must learn and respect the laws of nature in order that we may all thrive. We are delighted to have Dominica involved with Women for Nature.
Céline BakCéline Bak
Céline Bak is an internationally recognized author, speaker and consultant on clean technology and on innovation. She is also the founder of Analytica Advisors, a research and advisory firm. Together with her colleagues she launched the first independent research on the Canadian clean technology industry and its global markets, helping to build a multi-billion clean technology industry that contributes to sustainability and prosperity for Canada. Her current leadership roles include Global Practice Leader at the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Clean Technology Practice. Céline is the co-chair of the Canada-Brazil Science Technology and Innovation Working Group for Cleantech/Green Energy. She co-founded the Canadian Clean Technology Coalition that works to make Canada's clean technology industry an economic driver and an enabler for sustainability. Most recently, she has been recognized as a Clean16 honoree for her contribution to sustainability in Canada. Céline's example shows how science and research offers solutions that benefit nature and the economy in Canada.
Dr. Sandra BarrDr. Sandra Barr
Dr. Sandra M. Barr is Professor and J. Austin Bancroft Chair in Geology in the Department of Earth and Environmental Science at Acadia University. During her career she has shared her passion for Earth science with thousands of students, helping them to better understand and appreciate Earth processes and history. Her research has a strong emphasis on studying rocks, and to see them she has hiked many of the rivers, streams, and shorelines in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. In 1995, she was awarded the Gesner Medal of the Atlantic Geoscience Society in recognition of her contributions to geosciences. Dr. Barr has over 150 publications and has also presented the results of her work at conferences world-wide. She has also been active as a volunteer, serving in various roles, including Treasurer and VP, in the Association of Geoscientists for International Development (AGID). She was a member of the Canadian delegation to International Geological Congresses in Kyoto (1992) and Beijing (1996). She has been co-editor of the Atlantic Geoscience Society journal "Atlantic Geology" since 1986. She is a past President of the Geological Association of Canada (2004-2005), and has since continued to serve as Book Editor and Special Advisor to the President. In 2011, Sandra received a Distinguished Service Award from GAC. In addition to being a valued member of Women for Nature, she is currently President-Elect of the Canadian Federation of Earth Sciences, a national organization representing thousands of Earth scientists in Canada.
Candice BatistaCandice BatistaEco-journalist Candice Batista’s true passion in life is eco-consciousness and sustainability—a passion 15 years of experience has made continually stronger. Her green journey has covered everything from skincare, to household pets, to the weather outside our windows. With her roots in climatology, she created, produced, and hosted several eco-themed television programs (A Greener Toronto, Global Footprints, and @issueEarth), as well as hosting and producing Pet Central, which focuses on sustainable pet ownership. As the Eco & Pet Expert on CTV’s The Marilyn Denis Show, she covers topics such as energy conservation and eco-friendly lifestyle solutions. Whether for those getting started on their eco-path or for those who have already been on it for a while, Candice is proud to help provide the tools and information that help keep this planet sustainable though her website The Eco-Hub with Candice Batista (candicebatista.com). Her work embodies the Women for Nature mandate.
Céline Bak is an internationally recognized author, speaker and consultant on clean technology and on innovation. She is also the founder of Analytica Advisors, a research and advisory firm. Together with her colleagues she launched the first independent research on the Canadian clean technology industry and its global markets, helping to build a multi-billion clean technology industry that contributes to sustainability and prosperity for Canada. Her current leadership roles include Global Practice Leader at the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Clean Technology Practice. Céline is the co-chair of the Canada-Brazil Science Technology and Innovation Working Group for Cleantech/Green Energy. She co-founded the Canadian Clean Technology Coalition that works to make Canada's clean technology industry an economic driver and an enabler for sustainability. Most recently, she has been recognized as a Clean16 honoree for her contribution to sustainability in Canada. Céline's example shows how science and research offers solutions that benefit nature and the economy in Canada.
Dr. Sandra M. Barr is Professor and J. Austin Bancroft Chair in Geology in the Department of Earth and Environmental Science at Acadia University. During her career she has shared her passion for Earth science with thousands of students, helping them to better understand and appreciate Earth processes and history. Her research has a strong emphasis on studying rocks, and to see them she has hiked many of the rivers, streams, and shorelines in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. In 1995, she was awarded the Gesner Medal of the Atlantic Geoscience Society in recognition of her contributions to geosciences. Dr. Barr has over 150 publications and has also presented the results of her work at conferences world-wide. She has also been active as a volunteer, serving in various roles, including Treasurer and VP, in the Association of Geoscientists for International Development (AGID). She was a member of the Canadian delegation to International Geological Congresses in Kyoto (1992) and Beijing (1996). She has been co-editor of the Atlantic Geoscience Society journal "Atlantic Geology" since 1986. She is a past President of the Geological Association of Canada (2004-2005), and has since continued to serve as Book Editor and Special Advisor to the President. In 2011, Sandra received a Distinguished Service Award from GAC. In addition to being a valued member of Women for Nature, she is currently President-Elect of the Canadian Federation of Earth Sciences, a national organization representing thousands of Earth scientists in Canada.
Eco-journalist Candice Batista’s true passion in life is eco-consciousness and sustainability—a passion 15 years of experience has made continually stronger. Her green journey has covered everything from skincare, to household pets, to the weather outside our windows. With her roots in climatology, she created, produced, and hosted several eco-themed television programs (A Greener Toronto, Global Footprints, and @issueEarth), as well as hosting and producing Pet Central, which focuses on sustainable pet ownership. As the Eco & Pet Expert on CTV’s The Marilyn Denis Show, she covers topics such as energy conservation and eco-friendly lifestyle solutions. Whether for those getting started on their eco-path or for those who have already been on it for a while, Candice is proud to help provide the tools and information that help keep this planet sustainable though her website The Eco-Hub with Candice Batista (candicebatista.com). Her work embodies the Women for Nature mandate.
Janet BaxJanet Bax
Janet Bax is currently the Acting President and a Program Director at the Council of Canadian Academies. Prior to joining the Council, Janet served as Executive Director of the Federal Healthcare Partnership Secretariat in the Department of Veterans Affairs. Previous to that, she worked in the Department of Public Safety where she was responsible for emergency preparedness. Janet’s substantial career in public service has also included positions in the Department of Foreign Affairs, as Director of the Academic Relations Division, and as Consul, Cultural Affairs in New York; in Environment Canada on policy development, climate change and national park establishment; in Heritage Canada as communications advisor to the minister; and at the Millennium Bureau.
Over her career, Janet has also worked in various capacities in the Government of Ontario, including the positions of Executive Secretary of the Ontario Quebec Permanent Commission, as a senior representative for Ontario in Brussels, as a special advisor to develop an overseas higher education marketing strategy for the Ministry of Colleges and Universities, and as a director in the Ontario Women’s Directorate. Preserving the natural environment has always been a priority for Janet both in her career and in her personal life at the family cottage north of Wakefield. We are delighted to welcome Janet as a member of Women for Nature.
Dawn BazelyDawn Bazely
Dr. Dawn Bazely is a Professor in Biology at York University and was Director of York University’s Institute for Research and Innovation in Sustainability (2006-2011, 2012-2014). She is an ecologist, with degrees in Biogeography and Environmental Studies (1981) and Botany (1984) from the University of Toronto. Her doctorate in animal behaviour, from the University of Oxford (1988), was followed by research fellowships both here and at the University of Cambridge, before she joined York University in 1990. Dawn studies grassland and forest management, climate change impacts on ecosystems, invasive species and and science policy, and has published widely. She strives to inspire nature enthusiasts through her courses in ecology and sustainability, public outreach, and service. Dawn believes that scientists must be excellent communicators: she is active as a blogger and on Twitter. Dawn has won York University's Senior Faculty Teaching Award, and was the Globe and Mail's Hotshot (top) Professor of 2014 in its annual universities report. In 2011 Harvard University awarded her a Charles Bullard Fellowship, given to those most likely to make a significant impact in forest conservation and research. We are honoured to have Dawn as a founding member of Women for Nature for she brings her immeasurable expertise to our efforts to save wildlife, protect habitat and inspire others with nature.
Deborah BeattyDeborah Beatty
Deborah (Debby) Beatty understands that when it comes to nature conservation, it is all about making sure there is something left for future generations. For Debby, love of family and love for the natural world are deeply connected. As President of the Helen McCrea Peacock Foundation, she supports environmental causes throughout Ontario. She is presently the President of the Lake Simcoe Conservation Foundation, a volunteer board helping to raise funds and awareness to restore and protect Lake Simcoe. Debby has been a member of the Garden Club of Toronto since 1981, organizing the speakers series at Canada Blooms for nine years and spending two years as treasurer of The Garden Club. She was also a dedicated board member of the Toronto Community Foundation from 2000 - 2008. Supporting Nature Canada for over 25 years, she's a shining example of our Women for Nature founding members.
Janet Bax is currently the Acting President and a Program Director at the Council of Canadian Academies. Prior to joining the Council, Janet served as Executive Director of the Federal Healthcare Partnership Secretariat in the Department of Veterans Affairs. Previous to that, she worked in the Department of Public Safety where she was responsible for emergency preparedness. Janet’s substantial career in public service has also included positions in the Department of Foreign Affairs, as Director of the Academic Relations Division, and as Consul, Cultural Affairs in New York; in Environment Canada on policy development, climate change and national park establishment; in Heritage Canada as communications advisor to the minister; and at the Millennium Bureau.
Over her career, Janet has also worked in various capacities in the Government of Ontario, including the positions of Executive Secretary of the Ontario Quebec Permanent Commission, as a senior representative for Ontario in Brussels, as a special advisor to develop an overseas higher education marketing strategy for the Ministry of Colleges and Universities, and as a director in the Ontario Women’s Directorate. Preserving the natural environment has always been a priority for Janet both in her career and in her personal life at the family cottage north of Wakefield. We are delighted to welcome Janet as a member of Women for Nature.
Dr. Dawn Bazely is a Professor in Biology at York University and was Director of York University’s Institute for Research and Innovation in Sustainability (2006-2011, 2012-2014). She is an ecologist, with degrees in Biogeography and Environmental Studies (1981) and Botany (1984) from the University of Toronto. Her doctorate in animal behaviour, from the University of Oxford (1988), was followed by research fellowships both here and at the University of Cambridge, before she joined York University in 1990. Dawn studies grassland and forest management, climate change impacts on ecosystems, invasive species and and science policy, and has published widely. She strives to inspire nature enthusiasts through her courses in ecology and sustainability, public outreach, and service. Dawn believes that scientists must be excellent communicators: she is active as a blogger and on Twitter. Dawn has won York University's Senior Faculty Teaching Award, and was the Globe and Mail's Hotshot (top) Professor of 2014 in its annual universities report. In 2011 Harvard University awarded her a Charles Bullard Fellowship, given to those most likely to make a significant impact in forest conservation and research. We are honoured to have Dawn as a founding member of Women for Nature for she brings her immeasurable expertise to our efforts to save wildlife, protect habitat and inspire others with nature.
Deborah (Debby) Beatty understands that when it comes to nature conservation, it is all about making sure there is something left for future generations. For Debby, love of family and love for the natural world are deeply connected. As President of the Helen McCrea Peacock Foundation, she supports environmental causes throughout Ontario. She is presently the President of the Lake Simcoe Conservation Foundation, a volunteer board helping to raise funds and awareness to restore and protect Lake Simcoe. Debby has been a member of the Garden Club of Toronto since 1981, organizing the speakers series at Canada Blooms for nine years and spending two years as treasurer of The Garden Club. She was also a dedicated board member of the Toronto Community Foundation from 2000 - 2008. Supporting Nature Canada for over 25 years, she's a shining example of our Women for Nature founding members.
Meg BeckelMeg Beckel
Meg Beckel's impressive career has spanned the arts, academia, finance, the public sector and the country. She began her working life at the Bank of Nova Scotia, before moving to the National Ballet of Canada, the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, the University of Calgary, the Royal Ontario Museum and the University of Waterloo. Most recently, Meg was appointed President and CEO of the Canadian Museum of Nature in Ottawa, in 2011. Since joining the museum she has initiated a series of strategic changes in order to enhance the visitor experience and ensure the museum's position as a national museum of international first rank. Meg is a natural choice as a founding member of Women for Nature given her efforts to inspire understanding and respect for our natural heritage in all Canadians; a vision we share at Nature Canada.
Diane Beckett Diane Beckett 
Diane Beckett has more than three decades of experience addressing the human and environmental dimensions of sustainability. Her work has focused on low-carbon energy futures, urban environments, agro-ecology, livelihoods, climate and environmental justice, natural resources management, nature deficit disorder, gender equality, and Indigenous traditional knowledge.
She has a broad range of experience in research, policy, planning, management, and advocacy for civil society organizations, governments, associations, universities, and the United Nations. She has designed and implemented policies and programs, provided strategic advice, supported capacity-building and organizational change, and developed and implemented initiatives to influence policy and increase public and professional awareness for more than three dozen organizations in many parts of Canada, and in almost a dozen countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
Diane has a Bachelor of Environmental Studies from the University of Waterloo and a Master of Arts in International Affairs from Carleton University.
Dr. Valerie Behan-PelletierDr. Valerie Behan-PelletierDr. Valerie Behan-Pelletier is an Honorary Research Associate in the Invertebrate Biodiversity Program at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada in Ottawa. She is an expert on soil mites in ecosystems globally, and has a broad research interest in biodiversity and ecology of arthropods in soil and canopy habitats. She is currently engaged in research initiatives on soil mites across North America and in New Zealand. She is an Editor of the Global Soil Biodiversity Atlas, a Project of the European Commission and the Global Soil Biodiversity Initiative, scheduled to be released in Fall 2015. She is past member of the UNEP Scientific Committee on Problems of the Environment (SCOPE) Soil and Sediment Subcommittee. Valerie has been a recipient of Japanese Society for the Promotion of Science Fellowship, is a past member of NSERC’s GSC on Evolution and Ecology, and the Scientific Committee of the Biological Survey of Canada. She is a graduate of University College Dublin, Ireland and McGill University, Montreal. She brings her passion for and knowledge of biodiversity to the Women for Nature Initiative.
Meg Beckel's impressive career has spanned the arts, academia, finance, the public sector and the country. She began her working life at the Bank of Nova Scotia, before moving to the National Ballet of Canada, the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, the University of Calgary, the Royal Ontario Museum and the University of Waterloo. Most recently, Meg was appointed President and CEO of the Canadian Museum of Nature in Ottawa, in 2011. Since joining the museum she has initiated a series of strategic changes in order to enhance the visitor experience and ensure the museum's position as a national museum of international first rank. Meg is a natural choice as a founding member of Women for Nature given her efforts to inspire understanding and respect for our natural heritage in all Canadians; a vision we share at Nature Canada.
Diane Beckett has more than three decades of experience addressing the human and environmental dimensions of sustainability. Her work has focused on low-carbon energy futures, urban environments, agro-ecology, livelihoods, climate and environmental justice, natural resources management, nature deficit disorder, gender equality, and Indigenous traditional knowledge.
She has a broad range of experience in research, policy, planning, management, and advocacy for civil society organizations, governments, associations, universities, and the United Nations. She has designed and implemented policies and programs, provided strategic advice, supported capacity-building and organizational change, and developed and implemented initiatives to influence policy and increase public and professional awareness for more than three dozen organizations in many parts of Canada, and in almost a dozen countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
Diane has a Bachelor of Environmental Studies from the University of Waterloo and a Master of Arts in International Affairs from Carleton University.
Dr. Valerie Behan-Pelletier is an Honorary Research Associate in the Invertebrate Biodiversity Program at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada in Ottawa. She is an expert on soil mites in ecosystems globally, and has a broad research interest in biodiversity and ecology of arthropods in soil and canopy habitats. She is currently engaged in research initiatives on soil mites across North America and in New Zealand. She is an Editor of the Global Soil Biodiversity Atlas, a Project of the European Commission and the Global Soil Biodiversity Initiative, scheduled to be released in Fall 2015. She is past member of the UNEP Scientific Committee on Problems of the Environment (SCOPE) Soil and Sediment Subcommittee. Valerie has been a recipient of Japanese Society for the Promotion of Science Fellowship, is a past member of NSERC’s GSC on Evolution and Ecology, and the Scientific Committee of the Biological Survey of Canada. She is a graduate of University College Dublin, Ireland and McGill University, Montreal. She brings her passion for and knowledge of biodiversity to the Women for Nature Initiative.
Amanda BellAmanda BellAs vice-president of Regulatory and Government Affairs for RBC, Amanda Bell has responsibility for the financial sector policy and government relations activities of the organization in Canada, including analysis, review and communication of RBC views regarding government initiatives and coordination of RBC involvement with related stakeholders.
Ms. Bell began her career with the Department of Finance in Ottawa where she was involved in the reform of Canadian financial services sector legislation, including the Bank Act and Insurance Companies Act. She subsequently joined the Canadian Bankers Association where she had primary responsibility for the bank insurance file as well as several key issues, including the federal financial services legislation review process and developing a grassroots communications program.
Ms. Bell joined RBC as director of Public and Regulatory Affairs, RBC Insurance. She held a number of roles within the organization including in the areas of communications and corporate affairs prior to her appointment to her current position.
Ms. Bell is active in the community having been a member of the Board of Directors for Bridgepoint Health and the Canadian Club (Toronto). She is currently a member of the Board of Directors of the Public Policy Forum. She holds a BA (Honours) in economics from McGill University and an MA, economics from the University of Toronto.
Hon. Carolyn Bennett Annie BlierAnnie Blier
Working within the mining industry for almost 20 years, Annie Blier strives to reduce the ecological footprint of human activities, protect biodiversity, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and ensure a positive investment for nature and the communities that IAMGOLD Corporation operates in. As Director of Sustainable Development at IAMGOLD Corporation, Annie understands that impact of mining activities and is she constantly exploring ways to minimize them. Her personal objective is continual improvement on a journey in the pursuit of zero harm. Born in a rural area, nature and the outdoors have always been important to Annie. She wants to make sure that her kids and grandchildren will also be able to enjoy the beauty of nature and water, so nature conservation is one of her top priorities. To guide her decisions, she often asks herself: “Will my grandchildren be proud of what I accomplished?” Nature Canada is proud to welcome Annie Blier as a passionate and committed member of the Women for Nature initiative.
As vice-president of Regulatory and Government Affairs for RBC, Amanda Bell has responsibility for the financial sector policy and government relations activities of the organization in Canada, including analysis, review and communication of RBC views regarding government initiatives and coordination of RBC involvement with related stakeholders.
Ms. Bell began her career with the Department of Finance in Ottawa where she was involved in the reform of Canadian financial services sector legislation, including the Bank Act and Insurance Companies Act. She subsequently joined the Canadian Bankers Association where she had primary responsibility for the bank insurance file as well as several key issues, including the federal financial services legislation review process and developing a grassroots communications program.
Ms. Bell joined RBC as director of Public and Regulatory Affairs, RBC Insurance. She held a number of roles within the organization including in the areas of communications and corporate affairs prior to her appointment to her current position.
Ms. Bell is active in the community having been a member of the Board of Directors for Bridgepoint Health and the Canadian Club (Toronto). She is currently a member of the Board of Directors of the Public Policy Forum. She holds a BA (Honours) in economics from McGill University and an MA, economics from the University of Toronto.
Working within the mining industry for almost 20 years, Annie Blier strives to reduce the ecological footprint of human activities, protect biodiversity, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and ensure a positive investment for nature and the communities that IAMGOLD Corporation operates in. As Director of Sustainable Development at IAMGOLD Corporation, Annie understands that impact of mining activities and is she constantly exploring ways to minimize them. Her personal objective is continual improvement on a journey in the pursuit of zero harm. Born in a rural area, nature and the outdoors have always been important to Annie. She wants to make sure that her kids and grandchildren will also be able to enjoy the beauty of nature and water, so nature conservation is one of her top priorities. To guide her decisions, she often asks herself: “Will my grandchildren be proud of what I accomplished?” Nature Canada is proud to welcome Annie Blier as a passionate and committed member of the Women for Nature initiative.
Alexandra Blum Cedar Bradley-SwanCedar Bradley-Swan
Adventurer and passionate outdoor enthusiast, Cedar Bradley-Swan strongly believes in the importance of connection to nature in one’s daily life. An expedition planner, guide and Vice President of Adventure Canada, Cedar’s career involves introducing the public to remote places. With a focus on Arctic and sub-arctic environments her work educates and provides first hand experiences. She believes that fostering connections to people and land is critical to the longevity of conservation work. Cedar is dedicated to cultivating meaningful relationships that strengthen our ties to nature. We honour Cedar as a founding member of Women for Nature for sharing the culture and nature of the Arctic with Canadians.
Sheefra BrisbinSheefra Brisbin
Sheefra Brisbin is a partner of Greenbridge Consulting Group a government relations and strategic communications firm with a special focus on health and safety, environment and business issues. Sheefra’s interest and passion for the environment began when she was appointed publisher and editor of Communique, the national industry publication for the Petroleum Association for Conservation of the Canadian Environment (PACE) and subsequently the Canadian Petroleum Products Institute (CPPI). She was a recipient of the ‘Outstanding Contribution to Conservation and Protection of the Canadian Environment’ Award by both PACE and CPPI. She was recruited by the federal Minister of the Environment to head Environment Canada’s Conservation and Protection Program. During her tenure with the Minister of the Environment, Sheefra immersed herself in a wide range of issues that included Ozone Depletion, Global Warming, Climate Change and Pollution Prevention policy. Given her leadership and expertise, she was tapped to attend the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) Meeting of the Parties to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone layer in Copenhagen, Denmark. Soon after, Sheefra founded Greenbridge and led a delegation through three cities in India and organized the Asian Regional Workshops on Ozone Depleting Substances Phase Out on behalf of Environment Canada, the CII and the World Bank. More recently, Sheefra organized a panel on energy production, environmental responsibility and economic growth on behalf of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly’s Science and Technology Committee in the United States. Sheefra also organized for three consecutive years Earth Hour for the City of Ottawa, for which she received the Agent of Change Medal from the Mayor of Ottawa. Sheefra clearly exemplifies the initiative and dedication of Women for Nature and Nature Canada is delighted to partner with Sheefra.
Adventurer and passionate outdoor enthusiast, Cedar Bradley-Swan strongly believes in the importance of connection to nature in one’s daily life. An expedition planner, guide and Vice President of Adventure Canada, Cedar’s career involves introducing the public to remote places. With a focus on Arctic and sub-arctic environments her work educates and provides first hand experiences. She believes that fostering connections to people and land is critical to the longevity of conservation work. Cedar is dedicated to cultivating meaningful relationships that strengthen our ties to nature. We honour Cedar as a founding member of Women for Nature for sharing the culture and nature of the Arctic with Canadians.
Sheefra Brisbin is a partner of Greenbridge Consulting Group a government relations and strategic communications firm with a special focus on health and safety, environment and business issues. Sheefra’s interest and passion for the environment began when she was appointed publisher and editor of Communique, the national industry publication for the Petroleum Association for Conservation of the Canadian Environment (PACE) and subsequently the Canadian Petroleum Products Institute (CPPI). She was a recipient of the ‘Outstanding Contribution to Conservation and Protection of the Canadian Environment’ Award by both PACE and CPPI. She was recruited by the federal Minister of the Environment to head Environment Canada’s Conservation and Protection Program. During her tenure with the Minister of the Environment, Sheefra immersed herself in a wide range of issues that included Ozone Depletion, Global Warming, Climate Change and Pollution Prevention policy. Given her leadership and expertise, she was tapped to attend the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) Meeting of the Parties to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone layer in Copenhagen, Denmark. Soon after, Sheefra founded Greenbridge and led a delegation through three cities in India and organized the Asian Regional Workshops on Ozone Depleting Substances Phase Out on behalf of Environment Canada, the CII and the World Bank. More recently, Sheefra organized a panel on energy production, environmental responsibility and economic growth on behalf of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly’s Science and Technology Committee in the United States. Sheefra also organized for three consecutive years Earth Hour for the City of Ottawa, for which she received the Agent of Change Medal from the Mayor of Ottawa. Sheefra clearly exemplifies the initiative and dedication of Women for Nature and Nature Canada is delighted to partner with Sheefra.
Hon. Pauline BrowesHon. Pauline Browes
The Honourable Pauline Browes is a passionate champion for the environment. Pauline was instrumental in efforts to establish Canada's first National Urban Park in the Rouge Watershed in the eastern part of the Greater Toronto Area. She is a board member on the Waterfront Regeneration Trust and a member of the National Round Table for the Environment and Economy. During a long and distinguished career in public service, having been elected as a federal Member of Parliament and served as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of the Environment and later, Minister of State for the Environment, Pauline is a strong voice for nature. More recently she served as a member of Ontario's Environmental Review Tribunal and has been appointed to the Joint Public Advisory Committee of the Council of Environmental Co-operation for North America which includes members from Canada, United States and Mexico. As both a public servant and private citizen, Pauline has shown what one person can achieve for the cause of nature conservation.
Lyn BrownLyn Brown
Lyn has 30 years of corporate experience at the forefront of social trends, engaging with stakeholders on business issues, and weaving together the many threads of sustainability. She serves on the boards of GreenBlue Institute, Quest Outreach Society, and is managing director with Toronto-based Corporate Knights Inc. Her corporate background spans economic sectors and Canadian-based organizations, with communication leadership roles at Aquila Networks Canada (now Fortis), TELUS, Canada Post, and APEGA. She led the integrated marketing communication and corporate responsibility portfolio at Catalyst Paper through the end of 2013; in January 2014, Catalyst and partners announced completion of the Great Bear Rainforest agreement for coastal B.C. During her tenure, Catalyst ranked among Corporate Knights Best 50 Canadian companies for seven consecutive years and earned five awards for disclosure from the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants (now CPA). Lyn attained the ICD.D designation from the ICD-Rotman director education program, an MBA from Royal Roads University, a BA from the University of Alberta, a journalism diploma from MacEwan College University, and is accredited by the International Association of Business Communicators.
Meredith Brown Meredith BrownMeredith Brown, a champion for freshwater protection, is widely known throughout the vast Ottawa River Watershed as the founding Executive Director and Riverkeeper for the charitable organization Ottawa Riverkeeper, a licensed member of Waterkeeper Alliance.
Over 15 years, Meredith significantly raised the profile of the Ottawa River and brought together community organizations, municipal, provincial, federal governments, First Nation leaders, industry and civil society to work collaboratively to protect and restore the ecological health and resilience of the watershed. Still highly involved with Ottawa Riverkeeper, Brown now holds an officer position of Riverkeeper Emeritus.
Aside from being a nature fanatic, Meredith is an environmental consultant, an advisor to the International Boreal Conservation Campaign and is starting up a social enterprise to increase our connection to water and nature.
Meredith holds degrees in biology, environmental engineering and resource and environmental management. She is a Fellow of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society and was awarded the Nature Inspiration Award from the Canadian Museum of Nature. Meredith is also a director and member of the National Council for the Canadian Canoe Museum.
The Honourable Pauline Browes is a passionate champion for the environment. Pauline was instrumental in efforts to establish Canada's first National Urban Park in the Rouge Watershed in the eastern part of the Greater Toronto Area. She is a board member on the Waterfront Regeneration Trust and a member of the National Round Table for the Environment and Economy. During a long and distinguished career in public service, having been elected as a federal Member of Parliament and served as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of the Environment and later, Minister of State for the Environment, Pauline is a strong voice for nature. More recently she served as a member of Ontario's Environmental Review Tribunal and has been appointed to the Joint Public Advisory Committee of the Council of Environmental Co-operation for North America which includes members from Canada, United States and Mexico. As both a public servant and private citizen, Pauline has shown what one person can achieve for the cause of nature conservation.
Lyn has 30 years of corporate experience at the forefront of social trends, engaging with stakeholders on business issues, and weaving together the many threads of sustainability. She serves on the boards of GreenBlue Institute, Quest Outreach Society, and is managing director with Toronto-based Corporate Knights Inc. Her corporate background spans economic sectors and Canadian-based organizations, with communication leadership roles at Aquila Networks Canada (now Fortis), TELUS, Canada Post, and APEGA. She led the integrated marketing communication and corporate responsibility portfolio at Catalyst Paper through the end of 2013; in January 2014, Catalyst and partners announced completion of the Great Bear Rainforest agreement for coastal B.C. During her tenure, Catalyst ranked among Corporate Knights Best 50 Canadian companies for seven consecutive years and earned five awards for disclosure from the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants (now CPA). Lyn attained the ICD.D designation from the ICD-Rotman director education program, an MBA from Royal Roads University, a BA from the University of Alberta, a journalism diploma from MacEwan College University, and is accredited by the International Association of Business Communicators.
Meredith Brown, a champion for freshwater protection, is widely known throughout the vast Ottawa River Watershed as the founding Executive Director and Riverkeeper for the charitable organization Ottawa Riverkeeper, a licensed member of Waterkeeper Alliance.
Over 15 years, Meredith significantly raised the profile of the Ottawa River and brought together community organizations, municipal, provincial, federal governments, First Nation leaders, industry and civil society to work collaboratively to protect and restore the ecological health and resilience of the watershed. Still highly involved with Ottawa Riverkeeper, Brown now holds an officer position of Riverkeeper Emeritus.
Aside from being a nature fanatic, Meredith is an environmental consultant, an advisor to the International Boreal Conservation Campaign and is starting up a social enterprise to increase our connection to water and nature.
Meredith holds degrees in biology, environmental engineering and resource and environmental management. She is a Fellow of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society and was awarded the Nature Inspiration Award from the Canadian Museum of Nature. Meredith is also a director and member of the National Council for the Canadian Canoe Museum.
Giulia Brutesco Giulia Brutesco 
Giulia is an Environmental Engineer who is passionate about protecting Canada’s natural resources. She believes that preservation is essential for nature to thrive and for future generations of Canadians to succeed and flourish. As the Senior Director of Industry Standards at Fertilizer Canada, Giulia develops environmental performance policy through a collaborative, multi-stakeholder forum. She believes that informed policy is the key to achieving long-term conservation goals. Giulia is also on the Board of Directors of the Air & Waste Management Association in a leadership role aimed at advancing the knowledge and expertise of environmental professionals to promote a global environmental responsibility. Giulia’s values are also evident in her previous work, where she focused on establishing a balance between preservation and sustainable operation within the natural resource sector. She believes strongly that through collaboration, all professionals - young and experienced - may learn, grow, and continue to be passionate about the work they do. To this extent, Giulia views Women for Nature as an opportunity to join and contribute to a dynamic partnership of women who are driving positive environmental change for the benefit of future generations.
Joan BushJoan Bush
Joan Bush is a Director of The McMichael Canadian Art Collection, a Director of Canada-Rwanda Board of Trade, member of the International Women's Forum (IWF) executive, and a board member of the Yee Hong Wellness Foundation, which supports culturally and linguistically appropriate care for over 15,000 seniors from different ethnic communities. She has also served two terms as a governor on the Board of Trent University in Peterborough, Ontario. In 2012, Joan became a recipient of Queen’s Diamond Jubilee for her outstanding community service.
As a Director of the Kiani Foundation, she has contributed extensively to the community through numerous charities including hospitals, scholarships, youth education and women’s shelters. We are delighted to have Joan become involved as the newest member of the Women for Nature Initiative given her leadership, and her dedication to youth education, environment and first nations.
Sharon ButalaSharon Butala
Sharon Butala began her writing career in 1976, inspired by the prairie grasslands and people of Southwest Saskatchewan, the new home she discovered upon marrying her rancher husband, Peter. She is a bestselling author of 16 books, numerous essays and articles, and five produced plays. Sharon has received numerous literary awards and honours including the Canada 125 Commemorative Medal, the Queen's Golden Jubilee Medal, Saskatchewan Centennial Medal, the Saskatchewan Order of Merit, Marian Engel Award, the Order of Canada and three honorary doctorates. In 1996, Sharon and her husband donated land to establish The Old Man on His Back Prairie and Heritage Conservation Area. Sharon acts as a voice for nature both through her creative writing and by preserving prairie grasslands for other Canadians to enjoy. She is a shining example of the initiative and solutions of Women for Nature.
Giulia is an Environmental Engineer who is passionate about protecting Canada’s natural resources. She believes that preservation is essential for nature to thrive and for future generations of Canadians to succeed and flourish. As the Senior Director of Industry Standards at Fertilizer Canada, Giulia develops environmental performance policy through a collaborative, multi-stakeholder forum. She believes that informed policy is the key to achieving long-term conservation goals. Giulia is also on the Board of Directors of the Air & Waste Management Association in a leadership role aimed at advancing the knowledge and expertise of environmental professionals to promote a global environmental responsibility. Giulia’s values are also evident in her previous work, where she focused on establishing a balance between preservation and sustainable operation within the natural resource sector. She believes strongly that through collaboration, all professionals - young and experienced - may learn, grow, and continue to be passionate about the work they do. To this extent, Giulia views Women for Nature as an opportunity to join and contribute to a dynamic partnership of women who are driving positive environmental change for the benefit of future generations.
Joan Bush is a Director of The McMichael Canadian Art Collection, a Director of Canada-Rwanda Board of Trade, member of the International Women's Forum (IWF) executive, and a board member of the Yee Hong Wellness Foundation, which supports culturally and linguistically appropriate care for over 15,000 seniors from different ethnic communities. She has also served two terms as a governor on the Board of Trent University in Peterborough, Ontario. In 2012, Joan became a recipient of Queen’s Diamond Jubilee for her outstanding community service.
As a Director of the Kiani Foundation, she has contributed extensively to the community through numerous charities including hospitals, scholarships, youth education and women’s shelters. We are delighted to have Joan become involved as the newest member of the Women for Nature Initiative given her leadership, and her dedication to youth education, environment and first nations.
Sharon Butala began her writing career in 1976, inspired by the prairie grasslands and people of Southwest Saskatchewan, the new home she discovered upon marrying her rancher husband, Peter. She is a bestselling author of 16 books, numerous essays and articles, and five produced plays. Sharon has received numerous literary awards and honours including the Canada 125 Commemorative Medal, the Queen's Golden Jubilee Medal, Saskatchewan Centennial Medal, the Saskatchewan Order of Merit, Marian Engel Award, the Order of Canada and three honorary doctorates. In 1996, Sharon and her husband donated land to establish The Old Man on His Back Prairie and Heritage Conservation Area. Sharon acts as a voice for nature both through her creative writing and by preserving prairie grasslands for other Canadians to enjoy. She is a shining example of the initiative and solutions of Women for Nature.
Stephanie CairnsStephanie Cairns
Stephanie Cairns was aware of her passion for the protection of nature from an early age. She has a Master’s of Science in cleaner production and corporate environmental management and has worked on environment, economy, and fiscal policy research initiatives for twenty five years. Among her many achievements, she founded the Pembina Institute’s Ecological Fiscal Reform program, and was a strategic advisor in the Policy and Research Office of the Prime Minister of Canada. She now manages Wrangellia Consulting, which specializes in climate policy, and carbon pricing, and protected areas management. Their goal is to help policy makers distill expert advice, explain the most eco-friendly practices, and plan new sustainable initiatives. Stephanie serves on the Boards of the International Institute for Sustainable Development, the IISD-Experimental Lakes Area, and the Pembina Institute. She is a Trustee Emeritus and the past National President of the Board of the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society; and was a member of the President's Advisory Council of the Royal Society of Canada. Nature Canada is honoured to have Stephanie join as a founding member of Women for Nature given both her professional expertise and outstanding volunteer leadership in the conservation community.
Susanna CarsonSusanna Carson
Driven by tenacity, entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for the planet, Susanna Carson is providing compostable packaging solutions for a more sustainable world. As a graduate student of UBC, where she earned a Master's degree in biology, Susanna studied the effects of pheromones on the biodiversity of insect communities. While brainstorming with fellow graduate students about opportunities around Vancouver's Sustainability Olympics, they came up with the idea of food trays that didn't need to end up in a land fill. Research led her to a wealth of information on cutting edge compostable products and Susanna's company, BSI Biodegradable Solutions, began designing and supplying compostable packaging for food products. Seven years later, she is an award winning CEO whose company supplies biodegradable products to consumers throughout North America. Susanna's story is another example of how Women for Nature are bringing positive change to the world.
Dawn CarrDawn Carr
Dawn Carr has been the Executive Director of the Canadian Parks Council since 2012 and is the first woman to hold this position. In this role, Dawn provides professional advice and services to the Directors and Senior Executives of Canada’s provincial, territorial and federal park agencies to enhance the role of parks in the health and well-being of Canadians. Through her leadership at the 2014 World Parks Congress, Dawn’s interest in the role of young professionals in policy making flourished and she actively seeks to engage youth, among others, in discussions about the benefits of nature. Previously, Dawn worked for the Alberta Government as the Manager of Planning where she worked to ignite a culture that respects, loves and takes deep pride in the role of public service in protecting our most special places. Dawn holds both a Master of Public Administration (MPA) from Queen’s University and a Master of Arts (MA) focused on protected area planning from the University of Waterloo. Nature Canada is delighted that Dawn bring her expertise on protected areas and her passion to engage youth and professionals in nature conservation to the work of Women for Nature.
Stephanie Cairns was aware of her passion for the protection of nature from an early age. She has a Master’s of Science in cleaner production and corporate environmental management and has worked on environment, economy, and fiscal policy research initiatives for twenty five years. Among her many achievements, she founded the Pembina Institute’s Ecological Fiscal Reform program, and was a strategic advisor in the Policy and Research Office of the Prime Minister of Canada. She now manages Wrangellia Consulting, which specializes in climate policy, and carbon pricing, and protected areas management. Their goal is to help policy makers distill expert advice, explain the most eco-friendly practices, and plan new sustainable initiatives. Stephanie serves on the Boards of the International Institute for Sustainable Development, the IISD-Experimental Lakes Area, and the Pembina Institute. She is a Trustee Emeritus and the past National President of the Board of the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society; and was a member of the President's Advisory Council of the Royal Society of Canada. Nature Canada is honoured to have Stephanie join as a founding member of Women for Nature given both her professional expertise and outstanding volunteer leadership in the conservation community.
Driven by tenacity, entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for the planet, Susanna Carson is providing compostable packaging solutions for a more sustainable world. As a graduate student of UBC, where she earned a Master's degree in biology, Susanna studied the effects of pheromones on the biodiversity of insect communities. While brainstorming with fellow graduate students about opportunities around Vancouver's Sustainability Olympics, they came up with the idea of food trays that didn't need to end up in a land fill. Research led her to a wealth of information on cutting edge compostable products and Susanna's company, BSI Biodegradable Solutions, began designing and supplying compostable packaging for food products. Seven years later, she is an award winning CEO whose company supplies biodegradable products to consumers throughout North America. Susanna's story is another example of how Women for Nature are bringing positive change to the world.
Dawn Carr has been the Executive Director of the Canadian Parks Council since 2012 and is the first woman to hold this position. In this role, Dawn provides professional advice and services to the Directors and Senior Executives of Canada’s provincial, territorial and federal park agencies to enhance the role of parks in the health and well-being of Canadians. Through her leadership at the 2014 World Parks Congress, Dawn’s interest in the role of young professionals in policy making flourished and she actively seeks to engage youth, among others, in discussions about the benefits of nature. Previously, Dawn worked for the Alberta Government as the Manager of Planning where she worked to ignite a culture that respects, loves and takes deep pride in the role of public service in protecting our most special places. Dawn holds both a Master of Public Administration (MPA) from Queen’s University and a Master of Arts (MA) focused on protected area planning from the University of Waterloo. Nature Canada is delighted that Dawn bring her expertise on protected areas and her passion to engage youth and professionals in nature conservation to the work of Women for Nature.
Caroline CasselmanCaroline Casselman
Caroline Casselman has been helping Canadian organizations develop and enhance their reputations as responsible business and sustainability leaders for over 20 years. Prior to launching her own company, Caroline helped establish Falconbridge Limited as a global pioneer in the field of sustainable development, aboriginal relations and stakeholder partnerships. As Chair of the Public Affairs Committee of the Mining Association of Canada, she also made a notable contribution to the development of MAC's “Towards Sustainable Mining Initiative” which encourages Canadian mining companies to demonstrate responsible approaches to social, economic and environmental issues. TSM is now mandatory for all MAC members and is considered an industry best practice. Caroline also worked with Canadian Tire to develop and achieve a comprehensive corporate social responsibility program. Caroline is a graduate of Carleton University with a Bachelor of Journalism degree. Caroline’s love of nature began with family camping and canoeing trips through Algonquin Park. Through her career, she has been fortunate to visit unique lands and people – from the Canadian Arctic to the Andes Mountains in Chile and islands in the South Pacific –inspiring her interest in preserving and protecting the natural environment. As founder of Casselman & Co. Communications she helps her clients – including Canadian businesses, not-for-profit and environmental organizations – build trust, credibility and reputational advantage by implementing a strong track record of ethical, social and environmental performance. This is just one of the many reasons Caroline is an outstanding addition to our Women for Nature initiative.
Nathalie Chalifour Nathalie Chalifour
Nathalie J. Chalifour (PhD) is an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Law, University of Ottawa and Co-Director of the Centre for Environmental Law and Global Sustainability. Her main area of research is environmental law and policy, with a focus the intersection between the environment, the economy, and social justice. Her publications address a variety of topics, including climate change, carbon taxation, environmental justice, the green economy, brownfields, environmental assessment, sustainable food policy and environmental human rights. Prior to joining the Law Faculty, Nathalie was senior advisor to the President of the National Round Table on the Environment and the Economy, Policy Advisor to the World Wildlife Fund, founded TRAFFIC Canada, and taught at the University of Nairobi, Kenya. She obtained her Doctorate of Law at Stanford University, and holds a Master in Juridical Sciences which she obtained as a Stanford Fellow and Fulbright Scholar.
Joanna Chin Joanna Chin
Joanna Chin grew up in the spectacular islands of Hawaii with its abundance of flora and fauna in all its forms and colours. She believes it was the magic of Hawaii where she felt her first connection with the natural world. After living in four different cities, she ended up in beautiful British Columbia and worked for VanCity, a credit union with social, environment and community values. She then enrolled in a Masters at Royal Roads University focusing her thesis on community engagement, an important building block for strong communities. In her process of conducting research, she met many amazing women activists working towards building a more equitable planet for the human and non-human world. She has since become naturalist, spending time meditating in the forest, and bird-watching. She leads programs taking moms and babies out on nature hikes to engage in conversations that get them more in touch with the natural world. She has also worked on urban agricultural projects in the community from policy-making to building food forests. She received a community grant to build a Food Forest at a pre-school, the first project of its kind in her community. She is currently a doctoral student at York University in the Environmental Studies Faculty. Her interdisciplinary research focuses on biodiversity conservation education using critical theories, experiential learning, and creative activism with Environmental Arts. She is excited to be a member of Women for Nature because she believes that women are so crucial to the dialogue in cultivating the imaginaries towards a more sustainable, just and harmonious planet
Caroline Casselman has been helping Canadian organizations develop and enhance their reputations as responsible business and sustainability leaders for over 20 years. Prior to launching her own company, Caroline helped establish Falconbridge Limited as a global pioneer in the field of sustainable development, aboriginal relations and stakeholder partnerships. As Chair of the Public Affairs Committee of the Mining Association of Canada, she also made a notable contribution to the development of MAC's “Towards Sustainable Mining Initiative” which encourages Canadian mining companies to demonstrate responsible approaches to social, economic and environmental issues. TSM is now mandatory for all MAC members and is considered an industry best practice. Caroline also worked with Canadian Tire to develop and achieve a comprehensive corporate social responsibility program. Caroline is a graduate of Carleton University with a Bachelor of Journalism degree. Caroline’s love of nature began with family camping and canoeing trips through Algonquin Park. Through her career, she has been fortunate to visit unique lands and people – from the Canadian Arctic to the Andes Mountains in Chile and islands in the South Pacific –inspiring her interest in preserving and protecting the natural environment. As founder of Casselman & Co. Communications she helps her clients – including Canadian businesses, not-for-profit and environmental organizations – build trust, credibility and reputational advantage by implementing a strong track record of ethical, social and environmental performance. This is just one of the many reasons Caroline is an outstanding addition to our Women for Nature initiative.
Nathalie J. Chalifour (PhD) is an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Law, University of Ottawa and Co-Director of the Centre for Environmental Law and Global Sustainability. Her main area of research is environmental law and policy, with a focus the intersection between the environment, the economy, and social justice. Her publications address a variety of topics, including climate change, carbon taxation, environmental justice, the green economy, brownfields, environmental assessment, sustainable food policy and environmental human rights. Prior to joining the Law Faculty, Nathalie was senior advisor to the President of the National Round Table on the Environment and the Economy, Policy Advisor to the World Wildlife Fund, founded TRAFFIC Canada, and taught at the University of Nairobi, Kenya. She obtained her Doctorate of Law at Stanford University, and holds a Master in Juridical Sciences which she obtained as a Stanford Fellow and Fulbright Scholar.
Joanna Chin grew up in the spectacular islands of Hawaii with its abundance of flora and fauna in all its forms and colours. She believes it was the magic of Hawaii where she felt her first connection with the natural world. After living in four different cities, she ended up in beautiful British Columbia and worked for VanCity, a credit union with social, environment and community values. She then enrolled in a Masters at Royal Roads University focusing her thesis on community engagement, an important building block for strong communities. In her process of conducting research, she met many amazing women activists working towards building a more equitable planet for the human and non-human world. She has since become naturalist, spending time meditating in the forest, and bird-watching. She leads programs taking moms and babies out on nature hikes to engage in conversations that get them more in touch with the natural world. She has also worked on urban agricultural projects in the community from policy-making to building food forests. She received a community grant to build a Food Forest at a pre-school, the first project of its kind in her community. She is currently a doctoral student at York University in the Environmental Studies Faculty. Her interdisciplinary research focuses on biodiversity conservation education using critical theories, experiential learning, and creative activism with Environmental Arts. She is excited to be a member of Women for Nature because she believes that women are so crucial to the dialogue in cultivating the imaginaries towards a more sustainable, just and harmonious planet
Carolyn ChisholmCarolyn Chisholm
Carolyn Chisholm brings to the Women for Nature Initiative not only her personal commitment to the natural world but also her vast experience, knowledge and insight around key issues on energy, environment, economic development and aboriginal issues. She has advised a diversity of clients on policy issues from environmental stewardship, to climate change, environmental protection and aboriginal affairs. Early in her career, Carolyn worked for both federal and provincial governments respectively for over ten years. She was Senior Policy Advisor to the Federal Minister responsible for Nova Scotia, involved during the cleanup of the Sydney Tar Ponds. She earned her Masters of Public Administration from Carleton University and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from St. Francis Xavier University. Her volunteerism includes the Wabano Centre for Aboriginal Health and the Ontario Advisory Committee for the Terry Fox Research Institute. Carolyn is another shining example of the talented and resourceful women involved with Nature Canada as Women for Nature to strengthen our efforts to better connect Canadians to nature.
Valerie ChortValerie Chort
Valerie Chort is the Americas leader of Deloitte's sustainability and climate-change practice, and partner with Deloitte's enterprise risk services. With over two decades of experience in the sector, Valerie has worked as a regulator, in industry and as a leading consultant. She has also mentored more than 50 sustainability practitioners over the course of her career. She has authored a number of articles and is a frequent speaker on sustainability, corporate responsibility and climate change both in Canada and the United States. Valerie has and currently serves on a number of boards and advisory committees. In 2012, she was named as a member of Canada’s Clean 16. On a personal note, over the last 10 years, she has worked with her husband and daughter and a number of leading environmental leaders to transform their 200 acre property on the shores of Lake St. Clair in Southwestern Ontario into prime migratory bird and wildlife habitat. We are honoured to have Valerie involved for she brings her leadership and expertise on environmental management and business strategy to the Women for Nature Initiative.
Cara ClairmanCara Clairman
We are delighted to partner with Cara Clairman as a member of Women for Nature. Cara is the President and CEO of Plug'nDrive, a nonprofit committed to accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles in Canada. She's truly a "driving force" who brings 20 years of experience working in the environmental and sustainability fields. Previously, she worked with Ontario Power Generation for over twelve years, initially as the utility's environmental lawyer and later, in the role of Vice President of Sustainable Development.
Carolyn Chisholm brings to the Women for Nature Initiative not only her personal commitment to the natural world but also her vast experience, knowledge and insight around key issues on energy, environment, economic development and aboriginal issues. She has advised a diversity of clients on policy issues from environmental stewardship, to climate change, environmental protection and aboriginal affairs. Early in her career, Carolyn worked for both federal and provincial governments respectively for over ten years. She was Senior Policy Advisor to the Federal Minister responsible for Nova Scotia, involved during the cleanup of the Sydney Tar Ponds. She earned her Masters of Public Administration from Carleton University and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from St. Francis Xavier University. Her volunteerism includes the Wabano Centre for Aboriginal Health and the Ontario Advisory Committee for the Terry Fox Research Institute. Carolyn is another shining example of the talented and resourceful women involved with Nature Canada as Women for Nature to strengthen our efforts to better connect Canadians to nature.
Valerie Chort is the Americas leader of Deloitte's sustainability and climate-change practice, and partner with Deloitte's enterprise risk services. With over two decades of experience in the sector, Valerie has worked as a regulator, in industry and as a leading consultant. She has also mentored more than 50 sustainability practitioners over the course of her career. She has authored a number of articles and is a frequent speaker on sustainability, corporate responsibility and climate change both in Canada and the United States. Valerie has and currently serves on a number of boards and advisory committees. In 2012, she was named as a member of Canada’s Clean 16. On a personal note, over the last 10 years, she has worked with her husband and daughter and a number of leading environmental leaders to transform their 200 acre property on the shores of Lake St. Clair in Southwestern Ontario into prime migratory bird and wildlife habitat. We are honoured to have Valerie involved for she brings her leadership and expertise on environmental management and business strategy to the Women for Nature Initiative.
We are delighted to partner with Cara Clairman as a member of Women for Nature. Cara is the President and CEO of Plug'nDrive, a nonprofit committed to accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles in Canada. She's truly a "driving force" who brings 20 years of experience working in the environmental and sustainability fields. Previously, she worked with Ontario Power Generation for over twelve years, initially as the utility's environmental lawyer and later, in the role of Vice President of Sustainable Development.
Dr. Amelia Clarke Dr. Amelia Clarke
Dr. Amelia Clarke has been working on environment and sustainability issues since 1989, including as President of Sierra Club Canada (2003-2006) and as founder of the Sierra Youth Coalition (1996). She is now a tenured professor in the School of Environment, Enterprise and Development (SEED) at the University of Waterloo, where she is also Director of the Master of Environment and Business (MEB) online program. Her main research focuses are related to strategies for sustainable development, and include leading a team project on designing cross-sector partnerships to more effectively achieve local sustainability goals, and a team project on youth & innovation. These days she is also focused on the implementation of the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Dr. Clarke’s work has been published in academic journals, books and practitioner reports. She holds a PhD in Management (Strategy) from McGill University, a MES from Dalhousie University and a BSc (Biology) from Mount Allison University.
Catherine CobdenCatherine Cobden
Catherine Cobden is a passionate and strategic voice within the forest products sector who has worked to advance the industry's environmental performance while strengthening its competitive position. She is currently Executive Vice President of the Forest Products Association of Canada, where she played a key role in developing the Canadian Forest Sector Transformation Strategy. She also shepherded the landmark Bio-pathways study and more recently, led the 2012 launch of a new Vision for the sector. Previously, Catherine worked at Fleishman Hillard and also held several corporate positions within forest products companies including a global newsprint producer. We welcome Catherine's involvement in Women for Nature and are pleased to recognize her efforts and commitment to responsible environmental leadership.
Sheila Colla Sheila Colla
As the At-Risk Pollinator Project Lead Biologist at Wildlife Preservation Canada, Sheila Colla demonstrates everyday her passion for nature and the preservation of our environment. Nature Canada is very excited to have Sheila as a member of the Women for Nature initiative as she shares our commitment and drive. Her focus is primarily on research and policy initiatives focused on native bees, pollination, ecosystem services and biodiversity conservation. To date, Sheila has authored two books [including “Bumblebees of North America: An Identification Guide” (Princeton U Press, 2014)], as well as contributing chapters, reviews and technical reports. She is also part of a network (Greenprosperity.ca) puts forward an action agenda Ontario government on various environmental initiatives. In addition to her own projects, Sheila frequently collaborates with various researchers including at York University and the University of Ottawa in Canada. She also devotes quite a bit of time to outreach projects, such as giving regular workshops about bees at various parks or most recently being a specialist subcommittee member of the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada Arthropods.
Dr. Amelia Clarke has been working on environment and sustainability issues since 1989, including as President of Sierra Club Canada (2003-2006) and as founder of the Sierra Youth Coalition (1996). She is now a tenured professor in the School of Environment, Enterprise and Development (SEED) at the University of Waterloo, where she is also Director of the Master of Environment and Business (MEB) online program. Her main research focuses are related to strategies for sustainable development, and include leading a team project on designing cross-sector partnerships to more effectively achieve local sustainability goals, and a team project on youth & innovation. These days she is also focused on the implementation of the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Dr. Clarke’s work has been published in academic journals, books and practitioner reports. She holds a PhD in Management (Strategy) from McGill University, a MES from Dalhousie University and a BSc (Biology) from Mount Allison University.
Catherine Cobden is a passionate and strategic voice within the forest products sector who has worked to advance the industry's environmental performance while strengthening its competitive position. She is currently Executive Vice President of the Forest Products Association of Canada, where she played a key role in developing the Canadian Forest Sector Transformation Strategy. She also shepherded the landmark Bio-pathways study and more recently, led the 2012 launch of a new Vision for the sector. Previously, Catherine worked at Fleishman Hillard and also held several corporate positions within forest products companies including a global newsprint producer. We welcome Catherine's involvement in Women for Nature and are pleased to recognize her efforts and commitment to responsible environmental leadership.
As the At-Risk Pollinator Project Lead Biologist at Wildlife Preservation Canada, Sheila Colla demonstrates everyday her passion for nature and the preservation of our environment. Nature Canada is very excited to have Sheila as a member of the Women for Nature initiative as she shares our commitment and drive. Her focus is primarily on research and policy initiatives focused on native bees, pollination, ecosystem services and biodiversity conservation. To date, Sheila has authored two books [including “Bumblebees of North America: An Identification Guide” (Princeton U Press, 2014)], as well as contributing chapters, reviews and technical reports. She is also part of a network (Greenprosperity.ca) puts forward an action agenda Ontario government on various environmental initiatives. In addition to her own projects, Sheila frequently collaborates with various researchers including at York University and the University of Ottawa in Canada. She also devotes quite a bit of time to outreach projects, such as giving regular workshops about bees at various parks or most recently being a specialist subcommittee member of the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada Arthropods.
Dr.Isabelle Côte Lily Meunier-CoteLily Meunier-Cote
I currently work in the Retirement and Long Term Care industry providing administrative support. I have my BBA, with minors in International Business. I have dabbled in various industries but found real purpose making the lives of seniors better. I attribute my love and respect of nature to early exposure of the outdoors through camping and sporting activities. I live a very active life outdoors, doing things such as kayaking, scuba diving, hiking, snowboarding, cross country skiing, and yoga, to name a few. Through these activities I get to grow my appreciation for our natural world, continuously discover, share my enthusiasm for all things natural with peers, and clean-up any garbage I find along the way! I am also a supporting member of Conservation Halton, where you can find me hiking or meditating frequently. I am very proud and excited to be a member of Woman for Nature, and hope to influence more women to join this important initiative.
I currently work in the Retirement and Long Term Care industry providing administrative support. I have my BBA, with minors in International Business. I have dabbled in various industries but found real purpose making the lives of seniors better. I attribute my love and respect of nature to early exposure of the outdoors through camping and sporting activities. I live a very active life outdoors, doing things such as kayaking, scuba diving, hiking, snowboarding, cross country skiing, and yoga, to name a few. Through these activities I get to grow my appreciation for our natural world, continuously discover, share my enthusiasm for all things natural with peers, and clean-up any garbage I find along the way! I am also a supporting member of Conservation Halton, where you can find me hiking or meditating frequently. I am very proud and excited to be a member of Woman for Nature, and hope to influence more women to join this important initiative.
Lisa Courtney Lloyd Laura Couvrette Laura Couvrette
Born and raised in northwestern Ontario, Laura Couvrette is a nature enthusiast at heart. She now lives and works in Toronto as a Partner at Fuller Landau LLP, a mid-sized accounting, tax and advisory firm catering to entrepreneurial, privately-held businesses – but her love of the outdoors is as strong as ever. An avid distance runner, Laura enjoys exploring local parks and trails on her runs and spending time at the lake with friends and family. At Fuller Landau, she champions the firm’s green initiatives and commitment to environmental sustainability, including Fuller Landau’s early transition to a paperless office, stringent internal recycling policies, and advocating for energy efficiency with the property managers of the office building. Laura has over 14 years of experience helping entrepreneurs and owner-managers achieve their growth plans, pay less tax, and increase their personal wealth. She was also instrumental in Fuller Landau’s sponsorship of Cats and Birds, a coalition led by Nature Canada, aimed at protecting the environment by keeping cats indoors and saving bird lives. Given Laura’s commitment to the environment and love of nature, she is a natural fit as a member of Women for Nature.
Born and raised in northwestern Ontario, Laura Couvrette is a nature enthusiast at heart. She now lives and works in Toronto as a Partner at Fuller Landau LLP, a mid-sized accounting, tax and advisory firm catering to entrepreneurial, privately-held businesses – but her love of the outdoors is as strong as ever. An avid distance runner, Laura enjoys exploring local parks and trails on her runs and spending time at the lake with friends and family. At Fuller Landau, she champions the firm’s green initiatives and commitment to environmental sustainability, including Fuller Landau’s early transition to a paperless office, stringent internal recycling policies, and advocating for energy efficiency with the property managers of the office building. Laura has over 14 years of experience helping entrepreneurs and owner-managers achieve their growth plans, pay less tax, and increase their personal wealth. She was also instrumental in Fuller Landau’s sponsorship of Cats and Birds, a coalition led by Nature Canada, aimed at protecting the environment by keeping cats indoors and saving bird lives. Given Laura’s commitment to the environment and love of nature, she is a natural fit as a member of Women for Nature.
Ashlee CunsoloAshlee Cunsolo
Ashlee Cunsolo Willox is passionate about the environment and about exploring how our connections to and love of a place shape who we are, how we act, and how we feel. As part of her deep desire to understand the relationships between and among place, culture, health, and environment, Ashlee has been working collaboratively with Inuit colleagues in Nunatsiavut, Labrador integrating Indigenous and western sciences to examine how changes in the land, climate, and environment are affecting Inuit livelihoods and cultural activities, and the subsequent impacts to mental health and well-being. She currently is the Tier Two Canada Research Chair in Determinants of Healthy Community and holds a position as an Assistant Professorship in Community Health at Cape Breton University, where she works in the departments of Nursing and Indigenous Studies. Ashlee is establishing a Centre for Community-Engaged Health Research at Cape Breton University, bringing together researchers, health practitioners, and communities to work on complex environment and health issues in Cape Breton, across Canada, and internationally. Ashlee believes that research can and should be an important part of public service, and she is dedicated to sharing her values and mobilizing knowledge. She has garnered media attention for her work, including Attutauniujuk Nunami/Lament for the Land, a film sharing Inuit voices, wisdom, insights, and emotions around a rapidly-changing climate and environment. Ashlee completed her PhD at the University of Guelph and held a Postdoctoral Research Fellow position at McGill University with the Climate Change Adaptation Research Group. New to Cape Breton Island, she and her family feel grateful to be living among the beauty of the land, sea, and people of Unama’ki/Cape Breton. She is thrilled to be part of the Women for Nature initiative, and believes deeply in the role that women can play to encourage us all to live more sustainably with, in, and for nature.
Radha CurpenRadha Curpen
Radha Curpen is a partner and co-head of Bennett Jones’s aboriginal law practice. As a member of Women for Nature, Radha has a very strong environmental focus in her work. Specializing in environmental, aboriginal, regulatory matters, and the transportation of dangerous goods, Radha assists clients with regulatory compliance, the management of environmental risks and crisis prevention and management. Radha negotiates with regulatory authorities and First Nations regarding environmental projects. Clients also call upon her to manage and advise on contaminated site issues and the environmental assessment process at the provincial and federal levels to identify and implement customized environmental management systems, and provide advice on environmental issues in commercial transactions in Canada and the United States. Radha is also an adjunct professor at the University of Toronto Faculty of Law for the Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility course.
Leanne CusackLeanne Cusack
Leanne Cusack feels privileged to live a life “in nature” both at work and at play. She has camped on the tundra to witness the polar bear migration in Canada’s North and gone swimming with stingrays in the South Pacific. In her job as host of CTV News at Noon she has taken viewers along on the moose rut and birding with the best local guides. She has always had a keen interest in health, wellness, and nature. When she's not “on the air”, she’s outside breathing in fresh air hiking, snowshoeing, skiing or kayaking. Throughout her broadcast career, Leanne has enjoyed sharing the unique stories of people and places with others. We are delighted that she is involved with Women for Nature. Her tireless energy, innate love of animals and the natural environment will help our efforts to inspire others to spend time enjoying nature.
Ashlee Cunsolo Willox is passionate about the environment and about exploring how our connections to and love of a place shape who we are, how we act, and how we feel. As part of her deep desire to understand the relationships between and among place, culture, health, and environment, Ashlee has been working collaboratively with Inuit colleagues in Nunatsiavut, Labrador integrating Indigenous and western sciences to examine how changes in the land, climate, and environment are affecting Inuit livelihoods and cultural activities, and the subsequent impacts to mental health and well-being. She currently is the Tier Two Canada Research Chair in Determinants of Healthy Community and holds a position as an Assistant Professorship in Community Health at Cape Breton University, where she works in the departments of Nursing and Indigenous Studies. Ashlee is establishing a Centre for Community-Engaged Health Research at Cape Breton University, bringing together researchers, health practitioners, and communities to work on complex environment and health issues in Cape Breton, across Canada, and internationally. Ashlee believes that research can and should be an important part of public service, and she is dedicated to sharing her values and mobilizing knowledge. She has garnered media attention for her work, including Attutauniujuk Nunami/Lament for the Land, a film sharing Inuit voices, wisdom, insights, and emotions around a rapidly-changing climate and environment. Ashlee completed her PhD at the University of Guelph and held a Postdoctoral Research Fellow position at McGill University with the Climate Change Adaptation Research Group. New to Cape Breton Island, she and her family feel grateful to be living among the beauty of the land, sea, and people of Unama’ki/Cape Breton. She is thrilled to be part of the Women for Nature initiative, and believes deeply in the role that women can play to encourage us all to live more sustainably with, in, and for nature.
Radha Curpen is a partner and co-head of Bennett Jones’s aboriginal law practice. As a member of Women for Nature, Radha has a very strong environmental focus in her work. Specializing in environmental, aboriginal, regulatory matters, and the transportation of dangerous goods, Radha assists clients with regulatory compliance, the management of environmental risks and crisis prevention and management. Radha negotiates with regulatory authorities and First Nations regarding environmental projects. Clients also call upon her to manage and advise on contaminated site issues and the environmental assessment process at the provincial and federal levels to identify and implement customized environmental management systems, and provide advice on environmental issues in commercial transactions in Canada and the United States. Radha is also an adjunct professor at the University of Toronto Faculty of Law for the Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility course.
Leanne Cusack feels privileged to live a life “in nature” both at work and at play. She has camped on the tundra to witness the polar bear migration in Canada’s North and gone swimming with stingrays in the South Pacific. In her job as host of CTV News at Noon she has taken viewers along on the moose rut and birding with the best local guides. She has always had a keen interest in health, wellness, and nature. When she's not “on the air”, she’s outside breathing in fresh air hiking, snowshoeing, skiing or kayaking. Throughout her broadcast career, Leanne has enjoyed sharing the unique stories of people and places with others. We are delighted that she is involved with Women for Nature. Her tireless energy, innate love of animals and the natural environment will help our efforts to inspire others to spend time enjoying nature.
Professor Ann DaleProfessor Ann Dale
The momentum of the environmental movement is sustained by exceptional people with the expertise and the drive to make a real difference. People like Professor Ann Dale, whose public service has had a positive impact on environmentalism in more ways than one. Professor Dale was one of two public servants behind the creation of the National Round Table on the Environment and the Economy, and she is the founder of the National Environmental Trust. She is an author and expert on sustainable community development, and is a professor with the School of Environment and Sustainability at Royal Roads University, where she holds a Canada Research Chair in Sustainable Community Development. She acts as a Board member of the World Fisheries Trust, and is a Trudeau Fellow Alumna (2004). Her contributions to our understanding of sustainable community development and biodiversity policy help lead us to a better and brighter future. It is an honour to recognize her as a founding member of Women for Nature.
Marla DavidMarla David
Author and life coach Marla David got her start when she left her position as an executive secretary to pursue her dream of being a mother. At this time, she volunteered for two women's groups and was the editor of their newsletters. In the following years, Marla continued taking courses and attending seminars, acquiring a diverse range of life coaching certifications. She is also co-author of two #1 International Bestselling books: Empowering Women to Succeed Volume II: From Burnout to Victory, and 365 Moments of Grace, Volume 2. A lifelong learner, she continues to embrace new opportunities. She is currently working on new writing projects in addition to her advocacy work for animals and nature. She believes in giving back to society and raising her voice to help make a better world. Thanks to her commitment to nature and to her community, Nature Canada is pleased to partner with Marla as a Women for Nature.
The momentum of the environmental movement is sustained by exceptional people with the expertise and the drive to make a real difference. People like Professor Ann Dale, whose public service has had a positive impact on environmentalism in more ways than one. Professor Dale was one of two public servants behind the creation of the National Round Table on the Environment and the Economy, and she is the founder of the National Environmental Trust. She is an author and expert on sustainable community development, and is a professor with the School of Environment and Sustainability at Royal Roads University, where she holds a Canada Research Chair in Sustainable Community Development. She acts as a Board member of the World Fisheries Trust, and is a Trudeau Fellow Alumna (2004). Her contributions to our understanding of sustainable community development and biodiversity policy help lead us to a better and brighter future. It is an honour to recognize her as a founding member of Women for Nature.
Author and life coach Marla David got her start when she left her position as an executive secretary to pursue her dream of being a mother. At this time, she volunteered for two women's groups and was the editor of their newsletters. In the following years, Marla continued taking courses and attending seminars, acquiring a diverse range of life coaching certifications. She is also co-author of two #1 International Bestselling books: Empowering Women to Succeed Volume II: From Burnout to Victory, and 365 Moments of Grace, Volume 2. A lifelong learner, she continues to embrace new opportunities. She is currently working on new writing projects in addition to her advocacy work for animals and nature. She believes in giving back to society and raising her voice to help make a better world. Thanks to her commitment to nature and to her community, Nature Canada is pleased to partner with Marla as a Women for Nature.
The Honourable Elizabeth DowdeswellThe Honourable Elizabeth Dowdeswell
The Honourable Elizabeth Dowdeswell's eclectic public service career has spanned political jurisdictions and transcended traditional disciplinary lines. Yet, one thing has remained constant; many of her efforts have advanced the cause of nature conservation. She has tackled some of today's toughest issues. As an Assistant Deputy Minister of Environment Canada, she negotiated the Framework Convention on Climate Change and earlier led a public inquiry on federal water policy. As the founding President and CEO of Canada's Nuclear Waste Management Organization she helped the government determine the path toward long term management of Canada's used nuclear fuel. And as Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme, and Undersecretary General of the United Nations, Elizabeth led international efforts to solve some of the planet's most intractable environmental issues. Elizabeth continued to inform public policy as President and CEO of the Council of Canadian Academies, an independent scientific research provider. Today, she has taken on a new role as Ontario's lieutenant-governor. Elizabeth's success illustrates how women are making a difference for nature. Her example is a beacon to inspire future leaders for nature conservation.
Chloe Dragon Smith
The Honourable Elizabeth Dowdeswell's eclectic public service career has spanned political jurisdictions and transcended traditional disciplinary lines. Yet, one thing has remained constant; many of her efforts have advanced the cause of nature conservation. She has tackled some of today's toughest issues. As an Assistant Deputy Minister of Environment Canada, she negotiated the Framework Convention on Climate Change and earlier led a public inquiry on federal water policy. As the founding President and CEO of Canada's Nuclear Waste Management Organization she helped the government determine the path toward long term management of Canada's used nuclear fuel. And as Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme, and Undersecretary General of the United Nations, Elizabeth led international efforts to solve some of the planet's most intractable environmental issues. Elizabeth continued to inform public policy as President and CEO of the Council of Canadian Academies, an independent scientific research provider. Today, she has taken on a new role as Ontario's lieutenant-governor. Elizabeth's success illustrates how women are making a difference for nature. Her example is a beacon to inspire future leaders for nature conservation.
Hon. Kirsty DuncanHon. Kirsty Duncan
Kirsty Duncan is a medical geographer, Member of Parliament, and author. Her search for the cause of the 1918 Spanish flu, and a better flu vaccine, established her as an expert in pandemics and the crucial links between the environment and human health. Kirsty was a member of the Nobel prize winning Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and has taught and lectured in Canada and abroad on the issues surrounding climate change and its impact on the environment and our health. And she's just as comfortable in the boardroom as she is in the lecture hall. As the former Research Director of the AIC Institute of Corporate Citizenship, she developed strategies to help businesses combine healthy profit margins with social responsibility. Now, as a member of the House of Commons for Etobicoke North, Dr. Duncan continues to lead a life marked by public service and a commitment to a healthy environment.
Linda DuncanLinda Duncan
Linda Duncan comes to Women for Nature with a lifetime commitment to nature, expressed in her work as a lawyer and as a politician. Presently, she is the Member of Parliament for Edmonton Strathcona. She has won accolades from governments as far away as Indonesia and the Netherlands as well as here at home, being awarded the Emerald Environment Award in 2004 and an Award of Merit from the US Environmental Protection Agency in 1998. Previously, she founded the Environmental Law Centre of Alberta, served as an Executive member of the Environment Section of the Canadian Bar Association and was a former Vice President of Ecojustice (then Sierra Legal Defence). She was the first Head of Law and Enforcement for the North American Commission for Environmental Cooperation (CEC) and served as Chief of Enforcement for Environment Canada. Her achievements clearly demonstrate that she is a tremendous advocate for nature. Nature Canada is pleased to recognize her as a founding member of Women for Nature.
Charlene Dunn Charlene Dunn
Charlene Dunn BSC, MD, CCFP has been involved in the family medicine community practice in Calgary for over 26 years, after graduating with a Bachelor of Science from the University of Calgary in 1986 and a Doctor of Medicine from the University of Calgary in 1989.
Charlene has been fortunate to explore Canada’s wilderness from coast to coast to coast since her early teen years. Her adventures included backpacking Baffin Island, kayaking the West Coast, cycling in the Maritimes and the Yukon, skiing the mountain trails and glaciers in Alberta to just enjoying the summer prairie skies. Our country never ceases to amaze her. She believe it has been a gift to raise her family in the splendor of the Rocky Mountains and to share with them the diversity of our natural world including the amazing creatures we share it with. Nature Canada is delighted that Charlene has chosen to become involved with Women in Nature with the intention to contribute to the preservation and respect for our natural world.
Kirsty Duncan is a medical geographer, Member of Parliament, and author. Her search for the cause of the 1918 Spanish flu, and a better flu vaccine, established her as an expert in pandemics and the crucial links between the environment and human health. Kirsty was a member of the Nobel prize winning Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and has taught and lectured in Canada and abroad on the issues surrounding climate change and its impact on the environment and our health. And she's just as comfortable in the boardroom as she is in the lecture hall. As the former Research Director of the AIC Institute of Corporate Citizenship, she developed strategies to help businesses combine healthy profit margins with social responsibility. Now, as a member of the House of Commons for Etobicoke North, Dr. Duncan continues to lead a life marked by public service and a commitment to a healthy environment.
Linda Duncan comes to Women for Nature with a lifetime commitment to nature, expressed in her work as a lawyer and as a politician. Presently, she is the Member of Parliament for Edmonton Strathcona. She has won accolades from governments as far away as Indonesia and the Netherlands as well as here at home, being awarded the Emerald Environment Award in 2004 and an Award of Merit from the US Environmental Protection Agency in 1998. Previously, she founded the Environmental Law Centre of Alberta, served as an Executive member of the Environment Section of the Canadian Bar Association and was a former Vice President of Ecojustice (then Sierra Legal Defence). She was the first Head of Law and Enforcement for the North American Commission for Environmental Cooperation (CEC) and served as Chief of Enforcement for Environment Canada. Her achievements clearly demonstrate that she is a tremendous advocate for nature. Nature Canada is pleased to recognize her as a founding member of Women for Nature.
Charlene Dunn BSC, MD, CCFP has been involved in the family medicine community practice in Calgary for over 26 years, after graduating with a Bachelor of Science from the University of Calgary in 1986 and a Doctor of Medicine from the University of Calgary in 1989.
Charlene has been fortunate to explore Canada’s wilderness from coast to coast to coast since her early teen years. Her adventures included backpacking Baffin Island, kayaking the West Coast, cycling in the Maritimes and the Yukon, skiing the mountain trails and glaciers in Alberta to just enjoying the summer prairie skies. Our country never ceases to amaze her. She believe it has been a gift to raise her family in the splendor of the Rocky Mountains and to share with them the diversity of our natural world including the amazing creatures we share it with. Nature Canada is delighted that Charlene has chosen to become involved with Women in Nature with the intention to contribute to the preservation and respect for our natural world.
Eleanor EdenEleanor Eden
Eleanor is a Director, Climate Risk and Sustainable Finance at Delphi (a strategic climate consulting firm), where she collaborates with clients to address climate-related risks and navigate the transition to a lower-emissions economy. With almost a decade of experience built across finance, policy and consulting roles, Eleanor's specialisms span climate and financial risk management, policy and regulation, sustainable finance, climate reporting and transition planning. Eleanor is passionate about exploring the intersection of finance, nature and biodiversity, with a focus on leveraging financial tools to drive positive environmental outcomes. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking, biking and soaking in the natural beauty of British Columbia, Canada.
Eleanor is a Director, Climate Risk and Sustainable Finance at Delphi (a strategic climate consulting firm), where she collaborates with clients to address climate-related risks and navigate the transition to a lower-emissions economy. With almost a decade of experience built across finance, policy and consulting roles, Eleanor's specialisms span climate and financial risk management, policy and regulation, sustainable finance, climate reporting and transition planning. Eleanor is passionate about exploring the intersection of finance, nature and biodiversity, with a focus on leveraging financial tools to drive positive environmental outcomes. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking, biking and soaking in the natural beauty of British Columbia, Canada.
Charlene EastonCharlene Easton
As Director of Social Responsibility, Charlene is responsible for setting standards, and guiding community engagement at Glencore Canada. Social responsibility is a pillar of the company's business strategy and as such, Charlene oversees and builds capacity within social performance teams associated with projects in Sudbury, Northern Quebec and worldwide. Charlene's experience spans government, not-for-profit, corporate and university sectors, and the geographies of the Americas, Caribbean, Africa and Asia. Her career also includes sustainability advisory roles on Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) and United Nations projects, and eight years of social performance work in the mining industry. We are honoured that Charlene has chosen to become involved with Women for Nature Initiative, bringing to the table her commitment, passion and expertise on sustainable development and social responsibility.
Susan R. EatonSusan R. Eaton
Susan R. Eaton is a geologist, geophysicist, journalist and polar snorkeler. Since 2010, Susan has participated in eight expeditions to Antarctica and the Arctic, studying climate change, ocean change and global sustainability issues. A former executive in several junior oil and gas companies, she currently consults to international energy companies and equity financiers. Susan began her broadcast career as an on-camera reporter with CBC-TV. Today, she reports on science and technology, renewable energy, the environment and ecotourism. A member of the Canadian Science Writers' Association, her articles and photographs have been published in American and Canadian magazines and newspapers. A valued member of Nature Canada since the early 1990s, Susan has also volunteered for more than 25 years in Canada’s conservation sector, protecting Canada’s wild spaces and the animals who call them home. She's a current Nature Canada Board Director and an active Women for Nature Caucus member. As the founder and leader of the all-female Sedna Epic Expedition—a multi-year project studying disappearing sea ice in the Arctic— Susan has led two polar snorkel and dive expeditions, exploring the offshore of Labrador, Greenland and Nunavut. Team Sedna’s sea women have delivered their hands-on, ocean outreach program in Inuit communities—using mobile aquariums populated with sea critters, underwater robots equipped with video-cameras, and snorkel safaris—with a special focus on empowering Inuit girls and young women, the future leaders of the North.
As Director of Social Responsibility, Charlene is responsible for setting standards, and guiding community engagement at Glencore Canada. Social responsibility is a pillar of the company's business strategy and as such, Charlene oversees and builds capacity within social performance teams associated with projects in Sudbury, Northern Quebec and worldwide. Charlene's experience spans government, not-for-profit, corporate and university sectors, and the geographies of the Americas, Caribbean, Africa and Asia. Her career also includes sustainability advisory roles on Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) and United Nations projects, and eight years of social performance work in the mining industry. We are honoured that Charlene has chosen to become involved with Women for Nature Initiative, bringing to the table her commitment, passion and expertise on sustainable development and social responsibility.
Susan R. Eaton is a geologist, geophysicist, journalist and polar snorkeler. Since 2010, Susan has participated in eight expeditions to Antarctica and the Arctic, studying climate change, ocean change and global sustainability issues. A former executive in several junior oil and gas companies, she currently consults to international energy companies and equity financiers. Susan began her broadcast career as an on-camera reporter with CBC-TV. Today, she reports on science and technology, renewable energy, the environment and ecotourism. A member of the Canadian Science Writers' Association, her articles and photographs have been published in American and Canadian magazines and newspapers. A valued member of Nature Canada since the early 1990s, Susan has also volunteered for more than 25 years in Canada’s conservation sector, protecting Canada’s wild spaces and the animals who call them home. She's a current Nature Canada Board Director and an active Women for Nature Caucus member. As the founder and leader of the all-female Sedna Epic Expedition—a multi-year project studying disappearing sea ice in the Arctic— Susan has led two polar snorkel and dive expeditions, exploring the offshore of Labrador, Greenland and Nunavut. Team Sedna’s sea women have delivered their hands-on, ocean outreach program in Inuit communities—using mobile aquariums populated with sea critters, underwater robots equipped with video-cameras, and snorkel safaris—with a special focus on empowering Inuit girls and young women, the future leaders of the North.
Karen EtheringtonKaren Etherington
Karen Etherington currently acts as the Director of Environment and Regulatory for the Coastal GasLink Pipeline Project at TransCanada. A graduate of the University of Waterloo with a Bachelor of Environmental Studies degree, Karen has worked hard to manage environmental and regulatory issues and strives to engage in dialogue with local communities and knowledge holders. She has taken on numerous leadership roles during her 25 year tenure at TransCanada including chairing the Alberta Pipeline Environmental Steering Committee and the Canadian Pipeline Environment Committee as well as serving as an industry representative on the Species at Risk Advisory Committee. TransCanada has been a major funder to Nature Canada’s Important Bird Areas work for over a decade. More than $1 million dollars has supported the protection of 600 important sites for birds across Canada. Over 220 volunteers are active on the ground conserving these sites. We have respect for Karen’s vision and commitment to environmental stewardship in responsible energy development.
Dr. Karen FarbridgeDr. Karen Farbridge
Dr. Karen Farbridge is President of Karen Farbridge & Associated Ltd. Drawing from her 17 years of experience in municipal politics, including as the first female mayor of Guelph, Ontario, Karen works to promote healthy and sustainable cities. She successfully championed the incorporation of sustainability principles and leading citizen engagement practices into Guelph’s approach to community building. Karen has taught at the University of Guelph and York University on such topics as sustainable cities, environmental policy, and community energy planning and currently serves as Adjunct Professor at York University. She holds a M.Sc. and Ph.D. in Zoology from the University of Guelph and a Chartered Director designation (C. Dir.) from the Directors College, a joint venture of McMaster University and the Conference Board of Canada. She is the recipient of several awards for her commitment to sustainability, including the Diamond Jubilee Medal and a Women of Distinction Award from YWCA-YMCA of Guelph.
Eleanor Fast
Karen Etherington currently acts as the Director of Environment and Regulatory for the Coastal GasLink Pipeline Project at TransCanada. A graduate of the University of Waterloo with a Bachelor of Environmental Studies degree, Karen has worked hard to manage environmental and regulatory issues and strives to engage in dialogue with local communities and knowledge holders. She has taken on numerous leadership roles during her 25 year tenure at TransCanada including chairing the Alberta Pipeline Environmental Steering Committee and the Canadian Pipeline Environment Committee as well as serving as an industry representative on the Species at Risk Advisory Committee. TransCanada has been a major funder to Nature Canada’s Important Bird Areas work for over a decade. More than $1 million dollars has supported the protection of 600 important sites for birds across Canada. Over 220 volunteers are active on the ground conserving these sites. We have respect for Karen’s vision and commitment to environmental stewardship in responsible energy development.
Dr. Karen Farbridge is President of Karen Farbridge & Associated Ltd. Drawing from her 17 years of experience in municipal politics, including as the first female mayor of Guelph, Ontario, Karen works to promote healthy and sustainable cities. She successfully championed the incorporation of sustainability principles and leading citizen engagement practices into Guelph’s approach to community building. Karen has taught at the University of Guelph and York University on such topics as sustainable cities, environmental policy, and community energy planning and currently serves as Adjunct Professor at York University. She holds a M.Sc. and Ph.D. in Zoology from the University of Guelph and a Chartered Director designation (C. Dir.) from the Directors College, a joint venture of McMaster University and the Conference Board of Canada. She is the recipient of several awards for her commitment to sustainability, including the Diamond Jubilee Medal and a Women of Distinction Award from YWCA-YMCA of Guelph.
Joelle FaulknerJoelle Faulkner
Joelle Faulkner is the co-founder of Area One Farms, which invests in the expansion of top-tier farms in the Canadian Prairies. She is a Rhodes Scholar, a Fulbright Scholar and has been named on the list of Canada's Top 100 Women. Joelle has experience in consulting, investment banking, medical devices and private equity, and holds degrees in engineering, business and law.
Jen FitzpatrickJen Fitzpatrick
Jen Fitzpatrick is a Mom of 2, International Best Selling Author, Educator, Professional Photographer, Certified Wedding Planner, Humanitarian, and an Advocate for the Rights of Women & Children. She is the founder of FEMM International, a global organization that inspires and emboldens youth and women to create a positive impact in their communities and around the world. With an extensive background in teaching, marketing, and networking, Jen has created an exceptional company that strives to educate entrepreneurs and business leaders. After owning and operating her first company Serendipity Studios (photography and event management) for more than 12 years, Jen has shifted her focus to creating a global impact through the Female Entrepreneur & Mentorship Movement. She believes that it is the responsibility of successful entrepreneurs to share their knowledge with the next generation so they can become visionaries of the future.
Joelle Faulkner is the co-founder of Area One Farms, which invests in the expansion of top-tier farms in the Canadian Prairies. She is a Rhodes Scholar, a Fulbright Scholar and has been named on the list of Canada's Top 100 Women. Joelle has experience in consulting, investment banking, medical devices and private equity, and holds degrees in engineering, business and law.
Jen Fitzpatrick is a Mom of 2, International Best Selling Author, Educator, Professional Photographer, Certified Wedding Planner, Humanitarian, and an Advocate for the Rights of Women & Children. She is the founder of FEMM International, a global organization that inspires and emboldens youth and women to create a positive impact in their communities and around the world. With an extensive background in teaching, marketing, and networking, Jen has created an exceptional company that strives to educate entrepreneurs and business leaders. After owning and operating her first company Serendipity Studios (photography and event management) for more than 12 years, Jen has shifted her focus to creating a global impact through the Female Entrepreneur & Mentorship Movement. She believes that it is the responsibility of successful entrepreneurs to share their knowledge with the next generation so they can become visionaries of the future.
Rebecca FoonRebecca Foon
Rebecca Foon is a versatile urban planner and director with Sustainability Solutions Group, who is dedicated to integrating a holistic understanding of sustainability in growing healthy communities. She is an accomplished project manager and facilitator, sustainability management systems creator, sustainability assessment and strategy leader, researcher, and green building consultant. Among her most notable achievements she has managed a broad-based sustainability strategy for Algonquin College, Western and McGill University and led many cutting edge research projects focussed in building sustainable communities. She had a hand in the development of the Community Vitality Index in collaboration with the Canada Research Chair in Sustainable Community Development as well as being the project leader and researcher of the Sustainable Cities Strategic Review. Rebecca believes that healthy cities are formed by investing in the well-being of the individuals within that community, humans and nature alike. Rebecca is also a cellist and a co-founder of Juno-award chamber music group esmerine and saltland. Nature Canada is thrilled to have her on board as a founding member of the Women for Nature initiative.
Stephanie Foster Stephanie Foster 
Stephanie Foster, President of Fostering Sustainability works with educational institutions that want to become leaders in Education for Sustainability. Stephanie started out as a young “Woman for Nature” working as a wilderness canoe tripping guide. This set the stage for her early career as project manager at Environment Canada working on the federal government‘s first “Green Plan”, the PCB Destruction Program and the Brundtland Commission on Environment and Development. After this, Stephanie worked as environmental advisor at Ontario Hydro working with Maurice Strong, Chairman, and former Secretary General of the Rio Earth Summit. Over the next decade, Stephanie took on a number of positions in the emerging global civil society sustainable development movement, including launch of the Earth Council, the Earth Charter initiative and the Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Policy Forum. Over the years, Stephanie has worked as a “sustainability practitioner”, helping clients become “agents of change” in society’s transition to sustainability. Stephanie was V-P., Sustainability Initiatives, at CH2MHILL Canada, an environmental engineering firm. She also led Upper Canada College’s “Green School for the 21st Century” initiative. Since then Stephanie has taken the concept of “Eco- Schools” to the next level. Stephanie has volunteered on the Boards of CPAWS, Wildlands League and Ontario Nature. She is now proud to be a Woman for Nature inspiring a new generation of young leaders for nature.
Rebecca Foon is a versatile urban planner and director with Sustainability Solutions Group, who is dedicated to integrating a holistic understanding of sustainability in growing healthy communities. She is an accomplished project manager and facilitator, sustainability management systems creator, sustainability assessment and strategy leader, researcher, and green building consultant. Among her most notable achievements she has managed a broad-based sustainability strategy for Algonquin College, Western and McGill University and led many cutting edge research projects focussed in building sustainable communities. She had a hand in the development of the Community Vitality Index in collaboration with the Canada Research Chair in Sustainable Community Development as well as being the project leader and researcher of the Sustainable Cities Strategic Review. Rebecca believes that healthy cities are formed by investing in the well-being of the individuals within that community, humans and nature alike. Rebecca is also a cellist and a co-founder of Juno-award chamber music group esmerine and saltland. Nature Canada is thrilled to have her on board as a founding member of the Women for Nature initiative.
Stephanie Foster, President of Fostering Sustainability works with educational institutions that want to become leaders in Education for Sustainability. Stephanie started out as a young “Woman for Nature” working as a wilderness canoe tripping guide. This set the stage for her early career as project manager at Environment Canada working on the federal government‘s first “Green Plan”, the PCB Destruction Program and the Brundtland Commission on Environment and Development. After this, Stephanie worked as environmental advisor at Ontario Hydro working with Maurice Strong, Chairman, and former Secretary General of the Rio Earth Summit. Over the next decade, Stephanie took on a number of positions in the emerging global civil society sustainable development movement, including launch of the Earth Council, the Earth Charter initiative and the Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Policy Forum. Over the years, Stephanie has worked as a “sustainability practitioner”, helping clients become “agents of change” in society’s transition to sustainability. Stephanie was V-P., Sustainability Initiatives, at CH2MHILL Canada, an environmental engineering firm. She also led Upper Canada College’s “Green School for the 21st Century” initiative. Since then Stephanie has taken the concept of “Eco- Schools” to the next level. Stephanie has volunteered on the Boards of CPAWS, Wildlands League and Ontario Nature. She is now proud to be a Woman for Nature inspiring a new generation of young leaders for nature.
Suzanne Friemann Hon. Dr. Hedy FryHon. Dr. Hedy Fry
Honourable Dr. Hedy Fry was first elected to Parliament for Vancouver Centre in 1993 becoming the first rookie to defeat a sitting Prime Minister. She has been re-elected in 1997, 2000, 2004, 2006, 2008 and 2011. Dr. Fry began in 1993 as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health. She spent 6 years from 1996-2002 in Cabinet serving as Secretary of State for Multiculturalism and the Minister for the Status of Women. She was on a number of Cabinet Committees regarding health, social policy, volunteerism, homelessness and same-sex benefits. She was also the Minister responsible for the Vancouver agreement. She immigrated to Canada in 1970. She practiced family medicine at St. Paul’s Hospital in the West End of Vancouver for two decades and was a local, provincial and national leader in medical politics. She served as president of the Vancouver Medical Association (VMA), BC Medical Association (BCMA), and the Federation of Medical Women. In 2006, Dr. Fry ran for the Leadership of the Liberal Party as the first immigrant woman to do so with her “True Grit” campaign. Dr. Fry served as Opposition Critic for Sports and the 2010 Olympics, and for Canadian heritage. Currently, Dr. Fry serves as BC Federal Liberal Caucus Chair and the Federal Liberal Health Critic. She continues working hard at key priorities of representing her constituents and fighting for issues such as justice and human rights, the environment, health care, poverty, housing and homelessness, education and many other issues.
Honourable Dr. Hedy Fry was first elected to Parliament for Vancouver Centre in 1993 becoming the first rookie to defeat a sitting Prime Minister. She has been re-elected in 1997, 2000, 2004, 2006, 2008 and 2011. Dr. Fry began in 1993 as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health. She spent 6 years from 1996-2002 in Cabinet serving as Secretary of State for Multiculturalism and the Minister for the Status of Women. She was on a number of Cabinet Committees regarding health, social policy, volunteerism, homelessness and same-sex benefits. She was also the Minister responsible for the Vancouver agreement. She immigrated to Canada in 1970. She practiced family medicine at St. Paul’s Hospital in the West End of Vancouver for two decades and was a local, provincial and national leader in medical politics. She served as president of the Vancouver Medical Association (VMA), BC Medical Association (BCMA), and the Federation of Medical Women. In 2006, Dr. Fry ran for the Leadership of the Liberal Party as the first immigrant woman to do so with her “True Grit” campaign. Dr. Fry served as Opposition Critic for Sports and the 2010 Olympics, and for Canadian heritage. Currently, Dr. Fry serves as BC Federal Liberal Caucus Chair and the Federal Liberal Health Critic. She continues working hard at key priorities of representing her constituents and fighting for issues such as justice and human rights, the environment, health care, poverty, housing and homelessness, education and many other issues.
Brittany GawleyBrittany Gawley
Brittany Gawley, MA (Ed) is a Canadian photographer, educator and advocate for nature conservation, animal welfare and marginalized populations. She brings a unique perspective to her photographic work and has an innate ability to capture truth, poignancy and beauty in each photograph. A creative fire-cracker with entrepreneurial flare, her appetite for life is contagious. Her innovative and charming style can be seen regularly in the pages of magazines, advertising campaigns and covers for various national and international publications. Prior to her photography career, she competed as a professional athlete (CWHL), earned a Master's degree in Education and taught high school history.
Gawley dedicates her life and work to bringing more hope, adventure and compassion into the world and works tirelessly to conserve wildlife and wild places through action, community involvement, education and projects that inspire others to value nature.
Brittany Gawley, MA (Ed) is a Canadian photographer, educator and advocate for nature conservation, animal welfare and marginalized populations. She brings a unique perspective to her photographic work and has an innate ability to capture truth, poignancy and beauty in each photograph. A creative fire-cracker with entrepreneurial flare, her appetite for life is contagious. Her innovative and charming style can be seen regularly in the pages of magazines, advertising campaigns and covers for various national and international publications. Prior to her photography career, she competed as a professional athlete (CWHL), earned a Master's degree in Education and taught high school history.
Gawley dedicates her life and work to bringing more hope, adventure and compassion into the world and works tirelessly to conserve wildlife and wild places through action, community involvement, education and projects that inspire others to value nature.
Julie GelfandJulie Gelfand
As Nature Canada's executive director from 1992 to 2008, Julie Gelfand is already a cherished member of the Nature Canada family, including the Whittemore Legacy Circle and becoming involved as a founding member of Women for Nature is like returning home. Under Julie's leadership, Nature Canada won greater recognition of protected areas, established new parks and marine conservation areas, and brought about new federal legislation to protect nature, including the Species at Risk Act in 2002. Also during her tenure, Nature Canada completed the significant undertaking of identifying Canada's Important Bird Areas, and helped provide tens of thousands of children with experiences in nature through our outreach programs. Julie also created and chaired the Green Budget Coalition in 1999, one of Canada's most successful environmental coalitions working to promote ecological fiscal reform. Her dedication to Canada's community of naturalists helped strengthen the conservation movement, a legacy Nature Canada is proud to continue. More recently, Julie was Vice President, Sustainable Development for the Mining Association of Canada, Vice President, Environment and Social Responsibility at Iron Ore Company of Canada and will soon be the Chief Advisor for Rio Tinto's operations in Canada. She is also a soccer mom and enjoys hiking, cycling and yoga More recently, Julie was Vice President, Sustainable Development for the Mining Association of Canada, an then Vice President, Environment and Social Responsibility at Iron Ore Company of Canada and is currently the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development in Canada.
Rym Tina AlGhazal BachRym Tina AlGhazal Bach
Rym Tina AlGhazal Bach is striving to make a difference. An award-winning journalist, author, photographer, explorer, and peace and cultural ambassador, Rym is a senior cultural and storyteller expert focusing on conservation and environmental diplomacy. Currently working on her Phd, Rym completed a Master’s degree in Journalism from Carleton University and a Psychology and Economics Bachelor's Degree from the University of Waterloo. Her early focus included Indigenous communities in Canada before broadening her research interests to include Middle Eastern and Eastern European culture. Rym now has over 20 years of experience in journalism, starting as a war zone correspondent, then diving into cross-cultural international political affairs, project management, and leading public awareness campaigns and community engagement initiatives. At the heart of everything she does, she strives to make an impact and leave the world a better place through creative projects that give back — to the community and to the planet.Throughout her career as a journalist and a humanitarian, she led investigative features on social and environmental issues as well as conducted in-depth interviews with various individuals, including historic figures of note - His Holiness The Dalai Lama and Dame Jane Goodall.
An advocate for animals and nature, and a botanist, she founded the "Art of Seeds" project where '100 indigenous Seeds' get planted each month to help build a greener world for present and future generations. Rym is presently the Creative Art Director and Editor in Chief of Ithraeyat Magazine - a publication focusing on art, culture and the importance of cross-cultural dialogue issued by the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture.
The motto she lives by: "Plant trees in whose shade you shall never sit...".
As Nature Canada's executive director from 1992 to 2008, Julie Gelfand is already a cherished member of the Nature Canada family, including the Whittemore Legacy Circle and becoming involved as a founding member of Women for Nature is like returning home. Under Julie's leadership, Nature Canada won greater recognition of protected areas, established new parks and marine conservation areas, and brought about new federal legislation to protect nature, including the Species at Risk Act in 2002. Also during her tenure, Nature Canada completed the significant undertaking of identifying Canada's Important Bird Areas, and helped provide tens of thousands of children with experiences in nature through our outreach programs. Julie also created and chaired the Green Budget Coalition in 1999, one of Canada's most successful environmental coalitions working to promote ecological fiscal reform. Her dedication to Canada's community of naturalists helped strengthen the conservation movement, a legacy Nature Canada is proud to continue. More recently, Julie was Vice President, Sustainable Development for the Mining Association of Canada, Vice President, Environment and Social Responsibility at Iron Ore Company of Canada and will soon be the Chief Advisor for Rio Tinto's operations in Canada. She is also a soccer mom and enjoys hiking, cycling and yoga More recently, Julie was Vice President, Sustainable Development for the Mining Association of Canada, an then Vice President, Environment and Social Responsibility at Iron Ore Company of Canada and is currently the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development in Canada.
Rym Tina AlGhazal Bach is striving to make a difference. An award-winning journalist, author, photographer, explorer, and peace and cultural ambassador, Rym is a senior cultural and storyteller expert focusing on conservation and environmental diplomacy. Currently working on her Phd, Rym completed a Master’s degree in Journalism from Carleton University and a Psychology and Economics Bachelor's Degree from the University of Waterloo. Her early focus included Indigenous communities in Canada before broadening her research interests to include Middle Eastern and Eastern European culture. Rym now has over 20 years of experience in journalism, starting as a war zone correspondent, then diving into cross-cultural international political affairs, project management, and leading public awareness campaigns and community engagement initiatives. At the heart of everything she does, she strives to make an impact and leave the world a better place through creative projects that give back — to the community and to the planet.Throughout her career as a journalist and a humanitarian, she led investigative features on social and environmental issues as well as conducted in-depth interviews with various individuals, including historic figures of note - His Holiness The Dalai Lama and Dame Jane Goodall.
An advocate for animals and nature, and a botanist, she founded the "Art of Seeds" project where '100 indigenous Seeds' get planted each month to help build a greener world for present and future generations. Rym is presently the Creative Art Director and Editor in Chief of Ithraeyat Magazine - a publication focusing on art, culture and the importance of cross-cultural dialogue issued by the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture.
The motto she lives by: "Plant trees in whose shade you shall never sit...".
Lisa (Diz) GlitheroLisa (Diz) Glithero
She has been called an environmental educator, a youth advocate and a community innovator. With a PhD in Education and a former classroom teacher, Diz is an active part of the teaching faculty in University of Ottawa’s Faculty of Education. Through her work as a professor and educational researcher, she is passionate about connecting today’s youth to the natural world and to developing eco-civic leadership capacity in Canadian youth.
Diz served as the Education Director for Students on Ice (SOI) from 2004-2008 and continues to serve as Chair of SOI’s Education Advisory Committee. She has experienced over 15 polar expeditions. Diz also serves as one of Nature Canada’s Women for Nature Members, a member of the National Working Group on Environmental Sustainability Education in Teacher Education, Advisor to the Canadian Museum of Nature’s Teacher Advisory Board, Advisor to the Child and Nature Alliance of Canada, Member of the Environmental Education Steering Committee for the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board and former Co-Chair of Board of Directors for Youth Ottawa.
Diz has been honoured with an international “Women of the Earth Award” by the Yves Rocher Foundation for her work in environmental education and was named as one of Chatelaine’s “Amazing Canadian Women to Watch.” Most recently, in June 2016, Lisa was awarded a Meritorious Service Medal at Rideau Hall from the Governor General of Canada, His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, for her work in environmental education and youth engagement.
Andrea GoertzAndrea Goertz
Andrea is the senior vice-president of Enterprise Services and Strategic Initiatives, and chief communications and sustainability officer at TELUS, where her mandate includes advancing TELUS’ triple bottom line approach to business by focusing on the social, economic and environmental impact of the numerous corporate-wide programs she oversees. Appointed TELUS’ first-ever chief sustainability officer in 2013, Andrea was granted an expanded mandate to focus on key sustainability initiatives including TELUS’ innovative flexible telecommuting program, Work Styles; real estate consolidation; aggressive and ambitious energy and greenhouse gas reduction targets; and the creation and retrofitting of intelligent, sustainable work places. Andrea’s work as chief sustainability officer reflects her personal belief that in order to do well in business one must do good in the communities where we live, work and serve. This belief further informed Andrea’s decision to represent TELUS on Corporate Knights’ Council for Clean Capitalism and earned her a place on the Delta Clean 50 list for 2013. As a senior leader within a major Canadian corporation with a reputation for environmental stewardship and responsible corporate citizenship, Andrea is thrilled for the opportunity to work alongside some of our country’s most respected women to address the challenges in balancing economic growth with a diligent focus on environmental and social goals.
She has been called an environmental educator, a youth advocate and a community innovator. With a PhD in Education and a former classroom teacher, Diz is an active part of the teaching faculty in University of Ottawa’s Faculty of Education. Through her work as a professor and educational researcher, she is passionate about connecting today’s youth to the natural world and to developing eco-civic leadership capacity in Canadian youth.
Diz served as the Education Director for Students on Ice (SOI) from 2004-2008 and continues to serve as Chair of SOI’s Education Advisory Committee. She has experienced over 15 polar expeditions. Diz also serves as one of Nature Canada’s Women for Nature Members, a member of the National Working Group on Environmental Sustainability Education in Teacher Education, Advisor to the Canadian Museum of Nature’s Teacher Advisory Board, Advisor to the Child and Nature Alliance of Canada, Member of the Environmental Education Steering Committee for the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board and former Co-Chair of Board of Directors for Youth Ottawa.
Diz has been honoured with an international “Women of the Earth Award” by the Yves Rocher Foundation for her work in environmental education and was named as one of Chatelaine’s “Amazing Canadian Women to Watch.” Most recently, in June 2016, Lisa was awarded a Meritorious Service Medal at Rideau Hall from the Governor General of Canada, His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, for her work in environmental education and youth engagement.
Andrea is the senior vice-president of Enterprise Services and Strategic Initiatives, and chief communications and sustainability officer at TELUS, where her mandate includes advancing TELUS’ triple bottom line approach to business by focusing on the social, economic and environmental impact of the numerous corporate-wide programs she oversees. Appointed TELUS’ first-ever chief sustainability officer in 2013, Andrea was granted an expanded mandate to focus on key sustainability initiatives including TELUS’ innovative flexible telecommuting program, Work Styles; real estate consolidation; aggressive and ambitious energy and greenhouse gas reduction targets; and the creation and retrofitting of intelligent, sustainable work places. Andrea’s work as chief sustainability officer reflects her personal belief that in order to do well in business one must do good in the communities where we live, work and serve. This belief further informed Andrea’s decision to represent TELUS on Corporate Knights’ Council for Clean Capitalism and earned her a place on the Delta Clean 50 list for 2013. As a senior leader within a major Canadian corporation with a reputation for environmental stewardship and responsible corporate citizenship, Andrea is thrilled for the opportunity to work alongside some of our country’s most respected women to address the challenges in balancing economic growth with a diligent focus on environmental and social goals.
Susan GoslingSusan GoslingSusan Gosling is a recent recipient an Honorary Doctorate degree by the University Guelph for her conservation efforts with the Gosling Research Institute for Plant Preservation (GRIPP) an institute recognized for conservation research to restore endangered plant populations and cryopreserve plant biodiversity.
Susan Gosling’s love of nature started at a very young age where she spent much of her days in the forest near her home or canoeing and sailing on Lake of the Woods. She followed up her love of plants by obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Botany Honours at the University of Manitoba, a pre Masters of Landscape Architecture and a Masters of Plant Science. She then spent many years working in various research labs gaining experience in specialized biotechnology procedures that would become of significant relevance in the future. In 2012, her knowledge of plant cloning and cryopreservation technologies played a crucial role in the establishment of GRIPP and its innovative biodiversity conservation model the CPR - Conservation, Propagation, and Redistribution. GRIPP's mission is to preserve endangered plant biodiversity through innovative technologies of cloning and cryopreservation of living plant tissue. In partnership with Parks Canada, GRIPP has demonstrated that the plants reintroduced by the CPR not only survive but thrive in their natural environment. The cryobank at GRIPP has the capacity to preserve the entire Canadian native plant germplasm.
Her work with GRIPP truly serves to ensure that future generations continue to enjoy the beauty and biodiversity nature has to offer. Susan's work exemplifies a passionate commitment to nature and Nature Canada is pleased to partner with Susan as a Women for Nature member.
Tami GranthamTami Grantham
Tami Grantham is a respected guide with many years of experience in the backcountry. On top of her work as a wildlife technician for the Canadian Wildlife Service, Tami is an avid naturalists and birder, having worked with local and national not-for-profit groups like the Yukon Conservation Society, Yukon Outdoor Women and the Canadian Wildlife Federation. Tami is a Biologist and environmental practitioner who also holds an outdoor educator diploma from the National Outdoor Leadership School. Tami is a Paramedic who holds a wilderness first responder first aid certificate and is a skiing and sea kayaking instructor. Her experience includes work as an outdoor instructor for the Yukon Department of Education as well as contract work for the Department of the Environment, BC Wildlife Federation. In between naturalist work she have been professionally guiding wilderness trips for the past eight years. Tami is passionate about the role of women in conservation and has been teaching and leading women in the backcountry for over a decade. Tami is a life-long resident of the Yukon, having grown up on the shores of Kluane Lake. The wilderness is where she feels most at home and is passionate about her family and the natural and cultural history of the North.
Robyn GrayRobyn Gray
As a Senior Associate in the Energy and Environment Practice at Sussex Strategy Group, Robyn Gray has a strong background in both government and public affairs, and a passion for energy and environmental issues. Over the course of her life so far, Robyn has held many jobs within the Federal Government of Canada and Ontario Provincial Government and thus understands the reasoning and methodology behind policies and decision making. Previously, she worked at Queen’s Park for the Minister of Government Services, Minister of Consumer Services, and Minister of the Environment. At the federal level of government, Robyn worked for the Secretary of State for Rural Development and FedNor, the Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, and for the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. She is therefore able to provide very insightful suggestions to her clients in order to strengthen their capabilities in environmental sustainability and energy. Prior to joining to Sussex, Robyn was a senior consultant at a leading public affairs firm in Australia, providing strategic counsel to a number of domestic and international clients. With a Master’s Degree in Environmental Studies from York University where she specialized in climate change and an Honors BA in Political Science among her degrees, Robyn clearly demonstrates her passion and commitment to the environment alongside her fellow members of Women for Nature.
Susan Gosling is a recent recipient an Honorary Doctorate degree by the University Guelph for her conservation efforts with the Gosling Research Institute for Plant Preservation (GRIPP) an institute recognized for conservation research to restore endangered plant populations and cryopreserve plant biodiversity.
Susan Gosling’s love of nature started at a very young age where she spent much of her days in the forest near her home or canoeing and sailing on Lake of the Woods. She followed up her love of plants by obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Botany Honours at the University of Manitoba, a pre Masters of Landscape Architecture and a Masters of Plant Science. She then spent many years working in various research labs gaining experience in specialized biotechnology procedures that would become of significant relevance in the future. In 2012, her knowledge of plant cloning and cryopreservation technologies played a crucial role in the establishment of GRIPP and its innovative biodiversity conservation model the CPR - Conservation, Propagation, and Redistribution. GRIPP's mission is to preserve endangered plant biodiversity through innovative technologies of cloning and cryopreservation of living plant tissue. In partnership with Parks Canada, GRIPP has demonstrated that the plants reintroduced by the CPR not only survive but thrive in their natural environment. The cryobank at GRIPP has the capacity to preserve the entire Canadian native plant germplasm.
Her work with GRIPP truly serves to ensure that future generations continue to enjoy the beauty and biodiversity nature has to offer. Susan's work exemplifies a passionate commitment to nature and Nature Canada is pleased to partner with Susan as a Women for Nature member.
Tami Grantham is a respected guide with many years of experience in the backcountry. On top of her work as a wildlife technician for the Canadian Wildlife Service, Tami is an avid naturalists and birder, having worked with local and national not-for-profit groups like the Yukon Conservation Society, Yukon Outdoor Women and the Canadian Wildlife Federation. Tami is a Biologist and environmental practitioner who also holds an outdoor educator diploma from the National Outdoor Leadership School. Tami is a Paramedic who holds a wilderness first responder first aid certificate and is a skiing and sea kayaking instructor. Her experience includes work as an outdoor instructor for the Yukon Department of Education as well as contract work for the Department of the Environment, BC Wildlife Federation. In between naturalist work she have been professionally guiding wilderness trips for the past eight years. Tami is passionate about the role of women in conservation and has been teaching and leading women in the backcountry for over a decade. Tami is a life-long resident of the Yukon, having grown up on the shores of Kluane Lake. The wilderness is where she feels most at home and is passionate about her family and the natural and cultural history of the North.
As a Senior Associate in the Energy and Environment Practice at Sussex Strategy Group, Robyn Gray has a strong background in both government and public affairs, and a passion for energy and environmental issues. Over the course of her life so far, Robyn has held many jobs within the Federal Government of Canada and Ontario Provincial Government and thus understands the reasoning and methodology behind policies and decision making. Previously, she worked at Queen’s Park for the Minister of Government Services, Minister of Consumer Services, and Minister of the Environment. At the federal level of government, Robyn worked for the Secretary of State for Rural Development and FedNor, the Minister of Indian and Northern Affairs Canada, and for the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. She is therefore able to provide very insightful suggestions to her clients in order to strengthen their capabilities in environmental sustainability and energy. Prior to joining to Sussex, Robyn was a senior consultant at a leading public affairs firm in Australia, providing strategic counsel to a number of domestic and international clients. With a Master’s Degree in Environmental Studies from York University where she specialized in climate change and an Honors BA in Political Science among her degrees, Robyn clearly demonstrates her passion and commitment to the environment alongside her fellow members of Women for Nature.
Hon. Nancy Greene RaineHon. Nancy Greene Raine
Voted Canada's Female Athlete of the 20th Century, Nancy Greene Raine has been a clarion voice for outdoor sporting and activity in Canada for over 40 years. Claiming Gold and Silver medals at the 1968 Winter Olympics in Grenoble, France, Nancy also clinched a World Championship title in the same year. During her lifetime, she has been the recipient of many honours, including: the Order of Canada, the Order of British Columbia, and the rare Order of the Dogwood. She has been a driving force promoting alpine skiing to active Canadians of all ages. In 2005, she was appointed Chancellor of Thompson Rivers University, and in 2009, Greene was called to represent the people of British Columbia in the Senate, where she sits as a member of the Conservative Party of Canada. A lifelong competitor and strong female leader, Senator Raine brings her energy, spirit and drive to Women for Nature.
Sophie Grégoire Trudeau
Voted Canada's Female Athlete of the 20th Century, Nancy Greene Raine has been a clarion voice for outdoor sporting and activity in Canada for over 40 years. Claiming Gold and Silver medals at the 1968 Winter Olympics in Grenoble, France, Nancy also clinched a World Championship title in the same year. During her lifetime, she has been the recipient of many honours, including: the Order of Canada, the Order of British Columbia, and the rare Order of the Dogwood. She has been a driving force promoting alpine skiing to active Canadians of all ages. In 2005, she was appointed Chancellor of Thompson Rivers University, and in 2009, Greene was called to represent the people of British Columbia in the Senate, where she sits as a member of the Conservative Party of Canada. A lifelong competitor and strong female leader, Senator Raine brings her energy, spirit and drive to Women for Nature.
Catherine GrenierCatherine Grenier
Titulaire d’un baccalauréat en administration publique de l’université Carleton et d’une maîtrise en administration des affaires de l'université d'Ottawa, Catherine est vice-présidente, exploitation à la Société des établissements de plein air du Québec (Sépaq). Elle assure la gestion et le développement du réseau des parcs nationaux du Québec. Avant de se joindre à la Sépaq, Catherine a occupé plusieurs fonctions stratégiques à l’exploitation et aux services corporatifs à Parcs Canada. Son implication pour les aires protégées lui ont valu plusieurs prix dont la Médaille commémorative du Jubilée de diamant de la Reine en 2012. Auparavant, Catherine a œuvré dans le secteur à but non-lucratif à la direction d’organismes en sport et loisir. Catherine siège sur le Conseil canadien des parcs. Catherine est passionnée de sport, de nature et de plein-air, passions qu’elle adore faire découvrir et partager avec ses deux jeunes enfants.
Rachelle HansenRachelle HansenRachelle Hansen is a freelance learning and development consultant who believes we all have the power to make positive changes in this world. She is passionate about making the world a better place for people, the environment and animals, and was awarded the CEO Community Leader Award in 2009 by KPMG. Her community leadership work includes: visiting Kenya as part of the inaugural Free the Children trip to Kenya with KPMG, leading the organization of Free the Children family events at KPMG and volunteering for WE Day, as well as volunteering with the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International research office in Ruhengeri, Rwanda. Her work strives to empower others through knowledge, whether it be in a corporate setting, through raising awareness in communities about critical issues, or educating youth on their power to change the world. Thanks to her dedication to raising awareness and her efforts in leading change, Nature Canada is pleased to welcome Rachelle to Women for Nature.
Titulaire d’un baccalauréat en administration publique de l’université Carleton et d’une maîtrise en administration des affaires de l'université d'Ottawa, Catherine est vice-présidente, exploitation à la Société des établissements de plein air du Québec (Sépaq). Elle assure la gestion et le développement du réseau des parcs nationaux du Québec. Avant de se joindre à la Sépaq, Catherine a occupé plusieurs fonctions stratégiques à l’exploitation et aux services corporatifs à Parcs Canada. Son implication pour les aires protégées lui ont valu plusieurs prix dont la Médaille commémorative du Jubilée de diamant de la Reine en 2012. Auparavant, Catherine a œuvré dans le secteur à but non-lucratif à la direction d’organismes en sport et loisir. Catherine siège sur le Conseil canadien des parcs. Catherine est passionnée de sport, de nature et de plein-air, passions qu’elle adore faire découvrir et partager avec ses deux jeunes enfants.
Rachelle Hansen is a freelance learning and development consultant who believes we all have the power to make positive changes in this world. She is passionate about making the world a better place for people, the environment and animals, and was awarded the CEO Community Leader Award in 2009 by KPMG. Her community leadership work includes: visiting Kenya as part of the inaugural Free the Children trip to Kenya with KPMG, leading the organization of Free the Children family events at KPMG and volunteering for WE Day, as well as volunteering with the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International research office in Ruhengeri, Rwanda. Her work strives to empower others through knowledge, whether it be in a corporate setting, through raising awareness in communities about critical issues, or educating youth on their power to change the world. Thanks to her dedication to raising awareness and her efforts in leading change, Nature Canada is pleased to welcome Rachelle to Women for Nature.
The Honourable Judith Guichon Mrs. Laureen Harper
Dr. Isobel HeathcoteDr. Isobel Heathcote
Isobel Heathcote is a retired professor of Environmental Engineering and Environmental Sciences at the University of Guelph, where she was also Dean of Graduate Studies from 1999 to 2008. Her employment history is diverse, encompassing employment in both the public and private sectors in addition to academic appointments at the University of Toronto and the University of Guelph. She is currently President of Wyndham Research Inc., a consulting company with expertise in water resources policy, watershed restoration, and public engagement. She has served on many provincial, national, and international advisory committees, and from 2001 to 20016 was Canadian Co-Chair of the International Joint Commission's Science Advisory Board. Isobel is the author of Integrated Watershed Management: Principles and Practice and Environmental Science: Earth as a Living Planet (Canadian Edition), and hundreds of scholarly articles, policy analyses, and consultant reports. She holds a B.Sc. from the University of Toronto and an M.S. and Ph.D. from Yale University.
Linda Hohol Linda Hohol
Linda Hohol serves on the boards of NAV Canada and Canadian Western Bank (CWB). She chairs the Audit and Finance Committee of NAV Canada and serves on both this committee and the Risk Committee of CWB. She was the President of the TSX Venture Exchange at the TMX Group Inc. from 2002 until 2007. Prior to that she was Executive Vice-President, Wealth Management, CIBC and Senior Vice President Alta and NWT, CIBC. Ms. Hohol has served on numerous for-profit, not-for-profit boards and Crown Corporations, including Export Development Canada, ATB Financial, Calgary Airport Authority, Canada Foundation for Innovation, EllisDon Construction, Alberta Health Services and the United Way of Calgary, which she chaired. Ms. Hohol received the distinguished business leader award from the Haskayne School of Business in 2005.
Isobel Heathcote is a retired professor of Environmental Engineering and Environmental Sciences at the University of Guelph, where she was also Dean of Graduate Studies from 1999 to 2008. Her employment history is diverse, encompassing employment in both the public and private sectors in addition to academic appointments at the University of Toronto and the University of Guelph. She is currently President of Wyndham Research Inc., a consulting company with expertise in water resources policy, watershed restoration, and public engagement. She has served on many provincial, national, and international advisory committees, and from 2001 to 20016 was Canadian Co-Chair of the International Joint Commission's Science Advisory Board. Isobel is the author of Integrated Watershed Management: Principles and Practice and Environmental Science: Earth as a Living Planet (Canadian Edition), and hundreds of scholarly articles, policy analyses, and consultant reports. She holds a B.Sc. from the University of Toronto and an M.S. and Ph.D. from Yale University.
Linda Hohol serves on the boards of NAV Canada and Canadian Western Bank (CWB). She chairs the Audit and Finance Committee of NAV Canada and serves on both this committee and the Risk Committee of CWB. She was the President of the TSX Venture Exchange at the TMX Group Inc. from 2002 until 2007. Prior to that she was Executive Vice-President, Wealth Management, CIBC and Senior Vice President Alta and NWT, CIBC. Ms. Hohol has served on numerous for-profit, not-for-profit boards and Crown Corporations, including Export Development Canada, ATB Financial, Calgary Airport Authority, Canada Foundation for Innovation, EllisDon Construction, Alberta Health Services and the United Way of Calgary, which she chaired. Ms. Hohol received the distinguished business leader award from the Haskayne School of Business in 2005.
Jeminah HuJeminah Hu
Jeminah Rose Hu holds a diverse career in the hospitality and tourism, beauty and wellness two-sided marketplaces, FinTech, and SaaS platform industries. Her experience covers SMB, Fortune 500, and scale-up start-up environments. Jeminah’s areas of expertise are full-funnel commercial strategy, global leadership, and marketing communications. An expert in the North American market, Jeminah has lived and worked across Canada, the United States, China, and Taiwan. She is a certified Coach, registered yoga instructor and is completing her MA in Psychology at Adler University. She is the first graduate student to complete her Social Justice Practicum through Women for Nature. Through her international experiences, nature has been the silent mentor in Jeminah’s personal and professional journey, imparting inspiration, balance, and a calling to protect it.
Jeminah Rose Hu holds a diverse career in the hospitality and tourism, beauty and wellness two-sided marketplaces, FinTech, and SaaS platform industries. Her experience covers SMB, Fortune 500, and scale-up start-up environments. Jeminah’s areas of expertise are full-funnel commercial strategy, global leadership, and marketing communications. An expert in the North American market, Jeminah has lived and worked across Canada, the United States, China, and Taiwan. She is a certified Coach, registered yoga instructor and is completing her MA in Psychology at Adler University. She is the first graduate student to complete her Social Justice Practicum through Women for Nature. Through her international experiences, nature has been the silent mentor in Jeminah’s personal and professional journey, imparting inspiration, balance, and a calling to protect it.
Sabah HussainSabah Hussain
Sabah Hussain is a visionary leader with a diverse and impactful corporate and entrepreneurial expertise spanning over two decades across multiple industries, including Pharma, Biotech, Medical Services, IT solutions, import/export, supply chain, food manufacturing, construction and jewelry. As an experienced entrepreneur, consultant, and board advisor, Sabah has worked with global organizations and international companies, offering specialized guidance on strategic growth, leadership, and organizational transformation. Sabah specializes in using business psychology and neuroscience-based strategies to help individuals, leaders, and businesses unlock potential, enhance decision-making, and drive sustainable growth. With a wealth of experience, she is passionate about mentoring those seeking long-term success. As the founder of the Federation of Women Empowerment & Support (FOWES), Sabah empowers women in business and leadership and fosters inclusive communities. She is also an angel investor in women-owned SMEs, and is committed to their sustainable growth. With an MBA in Marketing, MA in Business Psychology, and an on-going Masters in Business Neuroscience, Sabah combines academic expertise with practical leadership experience. She is dedicated to philanthropy and creating a positive social impact, leaving a legacy of empowerment and innovation. Coming from a rich experience that Sabah was blessed to have, she is open-hearted to mentoring individuals who seek sustainable growth with a commitment to shaping the future of business and empowering the next generation of women leaders, Sabah's work continues to inspire, innovate, and leave a lasting legacy.
"Sustainability isn’t just about maintaining progress or preserving resources; it’s about creating a legacy of lasting impact and inspiring others to carry it forward.” - Sabah Hussain, CEO & Founder, Federation of Women Empowerment & Support | JCD Group | NeuroLead Consulting
Dr. Aerin JacobDr. Aerin Jacob
Trained as an ecologist, Dr. Aerin Jacob's research, consulting, and teaching has taken her to Africa, the Arctic, and across North and Central America. Her background includes working with Indigenous communities, forest restoration, terrestrial and marine spatial planning, animal behaviour, and environmental assessment. As Conservation Scientist with the Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative (Y2Y), she studies large landscape conservation and connectivity across the Rocky Mountains, including strategies to protect biodiversity while maintaining human livelihoods. Aerin holds a 2016-18 Liber Ero Fellowship, a program supporting outstanding early-career researchers working on acute conservation and management issues in Canada. She is a member of the Sustainable Canada Dialogues, a network of researchers working on national climate policy and sustainability solutions. In addition to research, Aerin is active in science communication and outreach, including public speaking, narrative storytelling, and advocating for evidence-based public policy. She earned a BSc in Biology at the University of British Columbia, a PhD in Biology at McGill University, and held Post-Doctoral Fellowships at the University of Victoria.
Sabah Hussain is a visionary leader with a diverse and impactful corporate and entrepreneurial expertise spanning over two decades across multiple industries, including Pharma, Biotech, Medical Services, IT solutions, import/export, supply chain, food manufacturing, construction and jewelry. As an experienced entrepreneur, consultant, and board advisor, Sabah has worked with global organizations and international companies, offering specialized guidance on strategic growth, leadership, and organizational transformation. Sabah specializes in using business psychology and neuroscience-based strategies to help individuals, leaders, and businesses unlock potential, enhance decision-making, and drive sustainable growth. With a wealth of experience, she is passionate about mentoring those seeking long-term success. As the founder of the Federation of Women Empowerment & Support (FOWES), Sabah empowers women in business and leadership and fosters inclusive communities. She is also an angel investor in women-owned SMEs, and is committed to their sustainable growth. With an MBA in Marketing, MA in Business Psychology, and an on-going Masters in Business Neuroscience, Sabah combines academic expertise with practical leadership experience. She is dedicated to philanthropy and creating a positive social impact, leaving a legacy of empowerment and innovation. Coming from a rich experience that Sabah was blessed to have, she is open-hearted to mentoring individuals who seek sustainable growth with a commitment to shaping the future of business and empowering the next generation of women leaders, Sabah's work continues to inspire, innovate, and leave a lasting legacy.
"Sustainability isn’t just about maintaining progress or preserving resources; it’s about creating a legacy of lasting impact and inspiring others to carry it forward.” - Sabah Hussain, CEO & Founder, Federation of Women Empowerment & Support | JCD Group | NeuroLead Consulting
Trained as an ecologist, Dr. Aerin Jacob's research, consulting, and teaching has taken her to Africa, the Arctic, and across North and Central America. Her background includes working with Indigenous communities, forest restoration, terrestrial and marine spatial planning, animal behaviour, and environmental assessment. As Conservation Scientist with the Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative (Y2Y), she studies large landscape conservation and connectivity across the Rocky Mountains, including strategies to protect biodiversity while maintaining human livelihoods. Aerin holds a 2016-18 Liber Ero Fellowship, a program supporting outstanding early-career researchers working on acute conservation and management issues in Canada. She is a member of the Sustainable Canada Dialogues, a network of researchers working on national climate policy and sustainability solutions. In addition to research, Aerin is active in science communication and outreach, including public speaking, narrative storytelling, and advocating for evidence-based public policy. She earned a BSc in Biology at the University of British Columbia, a PhD in Biology at McGill University, and held Post-Doctoral Fellowships at the University of Victoria.
Her Excellency Sharon JohnstonHer Excellency Sharon Johnston
Sharon Johnston graduated from the University of Toronto in 1966 as a physical and occupational therapist, and subsequently worked in the area of child psychiatry. When the Johnston family moved to Montréal, she completed her master’s and doctorate degrees in rehabilitation science. While in Montréal, she volunteered her time on many administrative boards, including the Collège Marie de France, in Montréal, and Bishop’s College School, in Lennoxville, Quebec. She was also a founding member of the Friends of the Neuro volunteer group at the Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital. In 1999, Mr. and Mrs. Johnston moved from Montréal to Waterloo, Ontario. While Mr. Johnston was occupied running the University of Waterloo, Mrs. Johnston began an entirely new life at a hundred-acre farm and small horse-boarding business called Chatterbox Farm, which she managed for 12 years. Farming and horses were entirely new to her, but suddenly this new adventure became a true passion. From its modest beginnings, Chatterbox Farm was a very successful horse-training centre in classical dressage. Mrs. Johnston also wrote an autobiographical essay for inclusion in a collection on notable women of Montréal, and has a novel in progress. The novel is a fictional account of life in southwestern Alberta during a colourful, post-Great War era, based on her grandmother’s experiences.
Andrea Koehle JonesAndrea Koehle Jones
Andrea Koehle Jones is a climate journalist, children's book author, environmental education advocate, United Nations Climate Observer, and the founder of Canada's ChariTree Foundation. She is an award-winning documentary producer and has worked for CBC News, CBC Newsworld International, cbc4kids and Greenpeace as a communications strategist during the campaign to 'Save The Great Bear Rainforest.
She attended The Bishop Strachan School, received her undergraduate degree from Queen's University and her master’s degree from The University of Western Ontario's Graduate School of Journalism.
Sharon Johnston graduated from the University of Toronto in 1966 as a physical and occupational therapist, and subsequently worked in the area of child psychiatry. When the Johnston family moved to Montréal, she completed her master’s and doctorate degrees in rehabilitation science. While in Montréal, she volunteered her time on many administrative boards, including the Collège Marie de France, in Montréal, and Bishop’s College School, in Lennoxville, Quebec. She was also a founding member of the Friends of the Neuro volunteer group at the Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital. In 1999, Mr. and Mrs. Johnston moved from Montréal to Waterloo, Ontario. While Mr. Johnston was occupied running the University of Waterloo, Mrs. Johnston began an entirely new life at a hundred-acre farm and small horse-boarding business called Chatterbox Farm, which she managed for 12 years. Farming and horses were entirely new to her, but suddenly this new adventure became a true passion. From its modest beginnings, Chatterbox Farm was a very successful horse-training centre in classical dressage. Mrs. Johnston also wrote an autobiographical essay for inclusion in a collection on notable women of Montréal, and has a novel in progress. The novel is a fictional account of life in southwestern Alberta during a colourful, post-Great War era, based on her grandmother’s experiences.
Andrea Koehle Jones is a climate journalist, children's book author, environmental education advocate, United Nations Climate Observer, and the founder of Canada's ChariTree Foundation. She is an award-winning documentary producer and has worked for CBC News, CBC Newsworld International, cbc4kids and Greenpeace as a communications strategist during the campaign to 'Save The Great Bear Rainforest.
She attended The Bishop Strachan School, received her undergraduate degree from Queen's University and her master’s degree from The University of Western Ontario's Graduate School of Journalism.
Jess KakneviciusJess Kaknevicius
Jess is working to expand SFI’s Project Learning Tree (PLT) initiative in Canada. She is also responsible for overseeing Indigenous relations and other aspects of SFI’s community engagement portfolio. Jess brings strong strategic thinking, project management and fundraising skills to her role. She has won several awards in recognition of her achievements including the Canadian Forest Industries’ Top 10 under 40 award. She is also the proud co-founder of Women in Wood: Canada, a networking group aimed at bringing together women who work in, with and for the woods. Prior to joining SFI, Jess was with Forests Ontario, where she developed and expanded their education and awareness programs. Some of her most noteworthy successes include the It Takes A Forest campaign, Forestry Connects, and Ontario Envirothon. Jess holds a Bachelor of Science and Master of Forest Conservation from the University of Toronto.
Jan KasperskiJan Kasperski
Janet Kasperski brings her own unique perspective on nature and the environment. With over three decades of experience in healthcare Ms. Kasperski has spent time as a clinician, a registered nurse, an educator (St. Paul's University, the Northern Ontario School of Medicine and the University of Ottawa), a researcher, a hospital administrator and as the CEO (Ontario College of Family Physicians). Additionally she is a member of the Board of the Toronto East General Hospital, a Board Certified Health Executive and an honorary member of the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment. In her capacity with the Women for Nature Initiative she brings her insight into the study of the health and the environment, with a specific focus on the effects of cosmetic pesticides and urban sprawl on public health.
Jess is working to expand SFI’s Project Learning Tree (PLT) initiative in Canada. She is also responsible for overseeing Indigenous relations and other aspects of SFI’s community engagement portfolio. Jess brings strong strategic thinking, project management and fundraising skills to her role. She has won several awards in recognition of her achievements including the Canadian Forest Industries’ Top 10 under 40 award. She is also the proud co-founder of Women in Wood: Canada, a networking group aimed at bringing together women who work in, with and for the woods. Prior to joining SFI, Jess was with Forests Ontario, where she developed and expanded their education and awareness programs. Some of her most noteworthy successes include the It Takes A Forest campaign, Forestry Connects, and Ontario Envirothon. Jess holds a Bachelor of Science and Master of Forest Conservation from the University of Toronto.
Janet Kasperski brings her own unique perspective on nature and the environment. With over three decades of experience in healthcare Ms. Kasperski has spent time as a clinician, a registered nurse, an educator (St. Paul's University, the Northern Ontario School of Medicine and the University of Ottawa), a researcher, a hospital administrator and as the CEO (Ontario College of Family Physicians). Additionally she is a member of the Board of the Toronto East General Hospital, a Board Certified Health Executive and an honorary member of the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment. In her capacity with the Women for Nature Initiative she brings her insight into the study of the health and the environment, with a specific focus on the effects of cosmetic pesticides and urban sprawl on public health.
Donna Kennedy-Glans Donna Kennedy-Glans 
Donna Kennedy-Glans was elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta for Calgary-Varsity on April 23, 2012. She acted as Associate Minister – Electricity and Renewable Energy and formerly chaired the Standing Committee on Resource Stewardship. For two years, she was a member of Treasury Board and also sat on the Alberta government’s Ministerial Working Group on Natural Resources and Environment. Donna was born near Tillsonburg, Ontario, and was raised on a cattle farm in the rural southwestern Ontario community, where her parents and extended family continue to farm today. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Wilfrid Laurier University and a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Western Ontario. Donna has worked as a lawyer, businesswoman and leader in the energy sector. Highlights of her 28-year career in this sector include serving as a lawyer and negotiator with TransCanada Pipelines in the 1980s; a corporate executive and first female Vice-President with Nexen Inc from 1991-2001; and an independent consultant, advising global energy operators on how to manage non-technical risks in resource projects over the past decade. In 2002, she also founded Bridges Social Development, and served as its executive director until 2011. Bridges is a volunteer organization bringing together local champions and Canadian experts to train and mentor community leaders in health care, law, journalism, education and politics in countries like Yemen, Egypt, Oman, India and Nepal. In 2008, a global youth social entrepreneurship initiative was launched, training youth leaders in Canada from Diaspora, First Nations and Métis communities. Donna has authored two books Corporate Integrity: A Toolkit for Managing beyond Compliance, published in 2005 and Unveiling the Breath: One Woman’s Journey into Understanding Islam and Gender Equality which was published in 2009. Her accolades and awards also include: a Global Woman of Vision award (2007); the ‘Compelling Calgarian’ by the Calgary Herald (2010); the Queens Diamond Jubilee Medal; one of Alberta’s 50 Most Influential People by Alberta Venture (2014); and one of Canada’s 50 Most Powerful Business People in 2014 by Canadian Business. She is a frequent guest lecturer at the University of Calgary’s Haskayne School of Business. In addition to volunteering with local community, inter-cultural and interfaith groups, she enjoys hiking, biking and working in her garden. Donna’s initiative, determination, business and voluntary sector leadership are a tremendous addition to Women for Nature.
Dr. Brenda KennyDr. Brenda Kenny
Brenda Kenny has extensive experience in sustainability, energy regulation and policy, and infrastructure. Her career has included executive roles at the National Energy Board, research in corporate social responsibility and environmental law, and as CEO of the Canadian Energy Pipeline Association. She currently serves on the Board of the University of Calgary, chair of the Environment, Safety and Sustainability Committee, and on the Climate Change Emissions Management Corporation Board as Vice Chair. Brenda is active in public service serving in many advisory roles, and having been a member of the imagineCALGARY Roundtable, and Sustainable Calgary Board. She is passionate about nature conservation and honoured to be co-chair of the Women for Nature initiative with Nature Canada.
Donna Kennedy-Glans was elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta for Calgary-Varsity on April 23, 2012. She acted as Associate Minister – Electricity and Renewable Energy and formerly chaired the Standing Committee on Resource Stewardship. For two years, she was a member of Treasury Board and also sat on the Alberta government’s Ministerial Working Group on Natural Resources and Environment. Donna was born near Tillsonburg, Ontario, and was raised on a cattle farm in the rural southwestern Ontario community, where her parents and extended family continue to farm today. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Wilfrid Laurier University and a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Western Ontario. Donna has worked as a lawyer, businesswoman and leader in the energy sector. Highlights of her 28-year career in this sector include serving as a lawyer and negotiator with TransCanada Pipelines in the 1980s; a corporate executive and first female Vice-President with Nexen Inc from 1991-2001; and an independent consultant, advising global energy operators on how to manage non-technical risks in resource projects over the past decade. In 2002, she also founded Bridges Social Development, and served as its executive director until 2011. Bridges is a volunteer organization bringing together local champions and Canadian experts to train and mentor community leaders in health care, law, journalism, education and politics in countries like Yemen, Egypt, Oman, India and Nepal. In 2008, a global youth social entrepreneurship initiative was launched, training youth leaders in Canada from Diaspora, First Nations and Métis communities. Donna has authored two books Corporate Integrity: A Toolkit for Managing beyond Compliance, published in 2005 and Unveiling the Breath: One Woman’s Journey into Understanding Islam and Gender Equality which was published in 2009. Her accolades and awards also include: a Global Woman of Vision award (2007); the ‘Compelling Calgarian’ by the Calgary Herald (2010); the Queens Diamond Jubilee Medal; one of Alberta’s 50 Most Influential People by Alberta Venture (2014); and one of Canada’s 50 Most Powerful Business People in 2014 by Canadian Business. She is a frequent guest lecturer at the University of Calgary’s Haskayne School of Business. In addition to volunteering with local community, inter-cultural and interfaith groups, she enjoys hiking, biking and working in her garden. Donna’s initiative, determination, business and voluntary sector leadership are a tremendous addition to Women for Nature.
Brenda Kenny has extensive experience in sustainability, energy regulation and policy, and infrastructure. Her career has included executive roles at the National Energy Board, research in corporate social responsibility and environmental law, and as CEO of the Canadian Energy Pipeline Association. She currently serves on the Board of the University of Calgary, chair of the Environment, Safety and Sustainability Committee, and on the Climate Change Emissions Management Corporation Board as Vice Chair. Brenda is active in public service serving in many advisory roles, and having been a member of the imagineCALGARY Roundtable, and Sustainable Calgary Board. She is passionate about nature conservation and honoured to be co-chair of the Women for Nature initiative with Nature Canada.
Elizabeth Kilvert Elizabeth Kilvert
Elizabeth Kilvert has spent much of her life as an educator. She comes from a background immersed in natural history museums, aquariums, overseas development projects, and entrepreneurship. Her focus has been in the areas of international development, community sustainability, food security, agricultural cooperatives, marine biology, citizen science, environmental education, and biodiversity. Elizabeth has worked on four continents and in numerous countries; her roles have included community development officer, director of education and community outreach, researcher, scuba diver, organic farm certification officer, microbiologist, public analyst, science outreach advisor, volunteer coordinator, citizen science coordinator, entrepreneur, business owner, and sole proprietor.
The culmination of her passion for the environment, food, and travel; has directed her education, life experience, and work history. Her core values of sustainability and her work ethic has resulted in her bursting the federal bubble of her civil service career and the launch of her first business: The Unrefined Olive.
Elizabeth believes in taking a local approach, integrating partnerships, developing networks, and co-promoting as much as possible. The result of these efforts is a business with a strong approach to locality and integrating a diverse portfolio of partners.
Dr. Leslie KingDr. Leslie King
Dr. Leslie King acts as Professor and the Director of the Canadian Centre for Environmental Education and the Chair of the Undergraduate Committee in the School of Environment and Sustainability at Royal Roads University. Her research in Africa and the Arctic spans the topics of protected areas, poverty reduction, sustainable healthy communities, arctic sustainability indicators, aboriginal resource management, traditional ecological knowledge, and environmental governance. She has served on the Boards of many environmental, and community organizations as well as previously serving as Vice President, Academic at Vancouver Island University, Founding Dean of the Clayton H. Riddell Faculty of Environment, Earth and Resources at the University of Manitoba and the Founding Chair of the Environmental Program at the University of Northern British Columbia. We commend Dr. King for her decades of teaching, training and mentoring scientists so they too can make positive contributions to protecting our natural world, as she has done over her illustrious career.
Elizabeth Kilvert has spent much of her life as an educator. She comes from a background immersed in natural history museums, aquariums, overseas development projects, and entrepreneurship. Her focus has been in the areas of international development, community sustainability, food security, agricultural cooperatives, marine biology, citizen science, environmental education, and biodiversity. Elizabeth has worked on four continents and in numerous countries; her roles have included community development officer, director of education and community outreach, researcher, scuba diver, organic farm certification officer, microbiologist, public analyst, science outreach advisor, volunteer coordinator, citizen science coordinator, entrepreneur, business owner, and sole proprietor.
The culmination of her passion for the environment, food, and travel; has directed her education, life experience, and work history. Her core values of sustainability and her work ethic has resulted in her bursting the federal bubble of her civil service career and the launch of her first business: The Unrefined Olive.
Elizabeth believes in taking a local approach, integrating partnerships, developing networks, and co-promoting as much as possible. The result of these efforts is a business with a strong approach to locality and integrating a diverse portfolio of partners.
Dr. Leslie King acts as Professor and the Director of the Canadian Centre for Environmental Education and the Chair of the Undergraduate Committee in the School of Environment and Sustainability at Royal Roads University. Her research in Africa and the Arctic spans the topics of protected areas, poverty reduction, sustainable healthy communities, arctic sustainability indicators, aboriginal resource management, traditional ecological knowledge, and environmental governance. She has served on the Boards of many environmental, and community organizations as well as previously serving as Vice President, Academic at Vancouver Island University, Founding Dean of the Clayton H. Riddell Faculty of Environment, Earth and Resources at the University of Manitoba and the Founding Chair of the Environmental Program at the University of Northern British Columbia. We commend Dr. King for her decades of teaching, training and mentoring scientists so they too can make positive contributions to protecting our natural world, as she has done over her illustrious career.
Pat KovalPat Koval
Pat Koval recently retired from Torys LLP, a major Canadian law firm, where she practised in corporate and securities law, mergers and acquisitions, governance, and the developing area of climate change. For more than 15 years, Pat was also an Adjunct Professor at University of Toronto, and she currently serves on its Environmental Finance Advisory Committee, helping to design programs to promote environmental thought leadership. She is a contributing author to “The Law of Climate Change in Canada”. Pat has a long history of volunteering in conservation, and, among other things, she chaired the Board of World Wildlife Fund Canada, currently chairs the Board of the Living City Foundation, serves on the boards of a number of Canadian and US organizations, including Rainforest Trust, Turtle Survival Alliance and Lewa Wildlife Conservancy Canada, and serves on the Advisory Council of Wildlife Conservation Society. Pat is also a member of the Ontario Executive of the Institute of Corporate Directors, and is involved in developing programs for directors in both the business and non-profit sectors. Pat graduated from the joint MBA/J.D. program at Schulich School of Business and Osgoode Hall Law School.
Dr. Gail KrantzbergDr. Gail Krantzberg
Dr. Gail Krantzberg is Professor and Director of the Centre for Engineering and Public Policy offering Canada's first Master's Degree in Engineering and Public Policy. Gail completed her M.Sc. and Ph.D. at the University of Toronto in environmental science and freshwater management. She has devoted her career to making the Lakes Great. Early on, she worked for the Ontario Ministry of Environment as Coordinator of Great Lakes clean up plans and rose to the position of Senior Policy Advisor. She is a past president of the International Association of Great Lakes Research and has served on numerous Boards, including as Director of the Great Lakes Regional Office of the International Joint Commission. She has also authored numerous scientific articles and books on issues pertaining to ecosystem quality and sustainability. In her personal time, Gail enjoys gardening and practicing her nature photography. Gail’s expertise on the Great Lakes and her strong desire to engage youth and other Canadians to explore positive sustainable solutions brings great value to Women for Nature.
Rosanne KyleRosanne Kyle
Rosanne Kyle practices aboriginal and environmental law throughout British Columbiaand Alberta. She advises clients on issues related to aboriginal and treaty rights, civil litigation and the application of environmental legislation. Rosanne also represents First Nations in regulatory proceedings, including the National Energy Board. Rosanne also provides legal advice and guidance outside the courtroom. She has been involved in the negotiation and drafting of First Nation impact benefit and associated agreements to ensure that First Nations receive benefits from resource development in their territories by various sectors, including mining and hydro-electricity. Rosanne’s experiences give her an in-depth understanding of the legal, political and cultural issues that can arise in First Nation negotiations, and facilitate her ability to provide practical advice on how to address and resolve issues at the negotiation table. Rosanne has published a number of articles on aboriginal law issues and was an adjunct professor for a number of years at the University of British Columbia’s Faculty of Law, where she taught a course on litigating aboriginal rights and title issues. She is also a guest lecturer at Simon Fraser University and is frequently asked to speak on aboriginal law issues at conferences across the country. In her free time, Rosanne enjoys all that nature has to offer by hiking, kayaking and camping around beautiful British Columbia with her family. We are delighted to have Rosanne join Women for Nature and volunteer on our Board of Directors, given her personal and professional commitment to the environment.
Pat Koval recently retired from Torys LLP, a major Canadian law firm, where she practised in corporate and securities law, mergers and acquisitions, governance, and the developing area of climate change. For more than 15 years, Pat was also an Adjunct Professor at University of Toronto, and she currently serves on its Environmental Finance Advisory Committee, helping to design programs to promote environmental thought leadership. She is a contributing author to “The Law of Climate Change in Canada”. Pat has a long history of volunteering in conservation, and, among other things, she chaired the Board of World Wildlife Fund Canada, currently chairs the Board of the Living City Foundation, serves on the boards of a number of Canadian and US organizations, including Rainforest Trust, Turtle Survival Alliance and Lewa Wildlife Conservancy Canada, and serves on the Advisory Council of Wildlife Conservation Society. Pat is also a member of the Ontario Executive of the Institute of Corporate Directors, and is involved in developing programs for directors in both the business and non-profit sectors. Pat graduated from the joint MBA/J.D. program at Schulich School of Business and Osgoode Hall Law School.
Dr. Gail Krantzberg is Professor and Director of the Centre for Engineering and Public Policy offering Canada's first Master's Degree in Engineering and Public Policy. Gail completed her M.Sc. and Ph.D. at the University of Toronto in environmental science and freshwater management. She has devoted her career to making the Lakes Great. Early on, she worked for the Ontario Ministry of Environment as Coordinator of Great Lakes clean up plans and rose to the position of Senior Policy Advisor. She is a past president of the International Association of Great Lakes Research and has served on numerous Boards, including as Director of the Great Lakes Regional Office of the International Joint Commission. She has also authored numerous scientific articles and books on issues pertaining to ecosystem quality and sustainability. In her personal time, Gail enjoys gardening and practicing her nature photography. Gail’s expertise on the Great Lakes and her strong desire to engage youth and other Canadians to explore positive sustainable solutions brings great value to Women for Nature.
Rosanne Kyle practices aboriginal and environmental law throughout British Columbiaand Alberta. She advises clients on issues related to aboriginal and treaty rights, civil litigation and the application of environmental legislation. Rosanne also represents First Nations in regulatory proceedings, including the National Energy Board. Rosanne also provides legal advice and guidance outside the courtroom. She has been involved in the negotiation and drafting of First Nation impact benefit and associated agreements to ensure that First Nations receive benefits from resource development in their territories by various sectors, including mining and hydro-electricity. Rosanne’s experiences give her an in-depth understanding of the legal, political and cultural issues that can arise in First Nation negotiations, and facilitate her ability to provide practical advice on how to address and resolve issues at the negotiation table. Rosanne has published a number of articles on aboriginal law issues and was an adjunct professor for a number of years at the University of British Columbia’s Faculty of Law, where she taught a course on litigating aboriginal rights and title issues. She is also a guest lecturer at Simon Fraser University and is frequently asked to speak on aboriginal law issues at conferences across the country. In her free time, Rosanne enjoys all that nature has to offer by hiking, kayaking and camping around beautiful British Columbia with her family. We are delighted to have Rosanne join Women for Nature and volunteer on our Board of Directors, given her personal and professional commitment to the environment.
Dr. Sonia LabattDr. Sonia Labatt
After raising her three children, Sonia Labatt decided to return to university where she earned her doctorate in environmental studies from the University of Toronto. Now a published author and adjunct professor at the Centre for Environment at the University of Toronto, Sonia taught two graduate courses on environmental management and carbon finance. She believes personal commitment, and the actions of individuals, have the power to bring positive change in our world and she has a record of volunteer involvement that proves it. She sits on the Dean's Advisory Board for the Faculty of Arts & Science and serves as the Chair of WWF's Arctic Council Advisory Committee. She has served as a Trustee or Director on several Boards such as the Hospital for Sick Children, the Art Gallery of Ontario, the National Ballet of Canada, and the Metropolitan Zoological Society, among many others.
Christine LeducChristine Leduc![]()
Christine Leduc works as the Director of Public Affairs for EACOM Timber Corporation, a Canadian wood products company with operations in Ontario and Quebec. With big aspirations for Canada’s forest sector, Christine is pleased to work with Canadian governments that have made important commitments to the fight against climate change. Prior to working with EACOM, Christine held policy positions with the Ontario Forest Industries Association and the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. With a passion for the forest, Christine has a Bachelor of Sciences and a Master of Forest Conversation from the University of Toronto. In 2015, Christine was a recipient of the Prince of Wales Award for Sustainable Forestry and the Ontario Professional Foresters Association Fernow Award.
After raising her three children, Sonia Labatt decided to return to university where she earned her doctorate in environmental studies from the University of Toronto. Now a published author and adjunct professor at the Centre for Environment at the University of Toronto, Sonia taught two graduate courses on environmental management and carbon finance. She believes personal commitment, and the actions of individuals, have the power to bring positive change in our world and she has a record of volunteer involvement that proves it. She sits on the Dean's Advisory Board for the Faculty of Arts & Science and serves as the Chair of WWF's Arctic Council Advisory Committee. She has served as a Trustee or Director on several Boards such as the Hospital for Sick Children, the Art Gallery of Ontario, the National Ballet of Canada, and the Metropolitan Zoological Society, among many others.
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Christine Leduc works as the Director of Public Affairs for EACOM Timber Corporation, a Canadian wood products company with operations in Ontario and Quebec. With big aspirations for Canada’s forest sector, Christine is pleased to work with Canadian governments that have made important commitments to the fight against climate change. Prior to working with EACOM, Christine held policy positions with the Ontario Forest Industries Association and the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. With a passion for the forest, Christine has a Bachelor of Sciences and a Master of Forest Conversation from the University of Toronto. In 2015, Christine was a recipient of the Prince of Wales Award for Sustainable Forestry and the Ontario Professional Foresters Association Fernow Award.
Sheila Leggett Terri LeRouxTerri LeRoux
Terri is a passionate relationship builder, leader and strategist with numerous environmental organizations including Credit Valley Conservation (Senior Manager), Credit Valley Conservation Foundation (Executive Director), Hike Ontario (President) and the Ontario Trails Council (Vice President).
At CVC, Terri is responsible for the overall management and strategic development of 62 conservation properties comprised of 2,800 hectares of land. With the CVC Foundation, Terri has helped raise more than $10 million dollars for critical environmental projects including land acquisition, brook trout habitat restoration, climate change research, tree planting, trail development and youth leadership.
Deeply committed to creating meaningful relationships with Indigenous partners, Terri is championing two initiatives at CVC: the development of a Conservation Areas Indigenous Engagement Plan and the Credit Valley Trail Indigenous Experience Plan. Working with members of the Mississauga’s of the Credit First Nation, Metis Nation of Ontario, Huron Wendat Nation, Cree Treaty Six, Wendat Confederacy and Six Nations of the Grand River, Terri and her CVC colleagues are actualizing recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action.
An advocate for pedestrian based trails and sustainable trail use, Terri is the co-author of three publications, Best Practices for Increasing Walking and Hiking on Ontario’s Trails; the Hike Ontario Young Hiker’s Program and the Credit Valley Trail Strategy.
Terri is a passionate relationship builder, leader and strategist with numerous environmental organizations including Credit Valley Conservation (Senior Manager), Credit Valley Conservation Foundation (Executive Director), Hike Ontario (President) and the Ontario Trails Council (Vice President).
At CVC, Terri is responsible for the overall management and strategic development of 62 conservation properties comprised of 2,800 hectares of land. With the CVC Foundation, Terri has helped raise more than $10 million dollars for critical environmental projects including land acquisition, brook trout habitat restoration, climate change research, tree planting, trail development and youth leadership.
Deeply committed to creating meaningful relationships with Indigenous partners, Terri is championing two initiatives at CVC: the development of a Conservation Areas Indigenous Engagement Plan and the Credit Valley Trail Indigenous Experience Plan. Working with members of the Mississauga’s of the Credit First Nation, Metis Nation of Ontario, Huron Wendat Nation, Cree Treaty Six, Wendat Confederacy and Six Nations of the Grand River, Terri and her CVC colleagues are actualizing recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action.
An advocate for pedestrian based trails and sustainable trail use, Terri is the co-author of three publications, Best Practices for Increasing Walking and Hiking on Ontario’s Trails; the Hike Ontario Young Hiker’s Program and the Credit Valley Trail Strategy.
Dr. Melissa LemDr. Melissa Lem
Dr. Melissa Lem is a Vancouver family physician who also works in rural and northern communities within Canada. Director of PaRx, Canada’s national nature prescription program powered by the BC Parks Foundation, and President of the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment, she is an internationally recognized leader in the field of nature and health. As a widely published writer, climate change panellist on CBC Radio's Early Edition, in-house medical columnist for CBC TV Vancouver, and Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of British Columbia, one of her major priorities is knowledge translation. Dr. Lem was the inaugural winner of University College’s Young Alumni of Influence Award at the University of Toronto, recipient of the 2022 Adult Nature Inspiration Award from the Canadian Museum of Nature, a 2021 World Parks Week Ambassador, and sits on the Advisory Committee of the IUCN World Commission on Protected Areas Health and Well-being Specialist Group.
Megan Leslie
Dr. Melissa Lem is a Vancouver family physician who also works in rural and northern communities within Canada. Director of PaRx, Canada’s national nature prescription program powered by the BC Parks Foundation, and President of the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment, she is an internationally recognized leader in the field of nature and health. As a widely published writer, climate change panellist on CBC Radio's Early Edition, in-house medical columnist for CBC TV Vancouver, and Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of British Columbia, one of her major priorities is knowledge translation. Dr. Lem was the inaugural winner of University College’s Young Alumni of Influence Award at the University of Toronto, recipient of the 2022 Adult Nature Inspiration Award from the Canadian Museum of Nature, a 2021 World Parks Week Ambassador, and sits on the Advisory Committee of the IUCN World Commission on Protected Areas Health and Well-being Specialist Group.
Cara LinzmayerCara Linzmayer
Cara is a registered social worker with her own counseling practice in Spruce Grove, Alberta where she works with children, youth, and families. She grew up spending part of her time in the Rocky Mountains west of Calgary (hiking, camping, skiing, horseback riding) and part of her time on her family’s farm in rural Saskatchewan. Growing up as a free-range kid in the growing metropolis of Calgary, nature was always as close as her own back yard, or the school yard across the street, or the playground down her back alley. She can even remember a horse pasture down the road from her high school - right in the middle of Calgary! The birth of her daughter, Keeya, in 2003, opened up space for Cara to experience nature from a new position. This new perspective illuminated the ways in which society and culture can constrain children’s access to nature. Out of a desire to create opportunities for young children to connect with nature, Cara opened Alberta’s first forest preschool. Her later doctoral research explored at how children form relationships with nature. These days, when not exploring Alberta’s backcountry on horseback with her daughter and her chocolate lab, she’s sharing her passion for deep connections with nature through her social work practice, her teaching and her research pursuits.
Cara is a registered social worker with her own counseling practice in Spruce Grove, Alberta where she works with children, youth, and families. She grew up spending part of her time in the Rocky Mountains west of Calgary (hiking, camping, skiing, horseback riding) and part of her time on her family’s farm in rural Saskatchewan. Growing up as a free-range kid in the growing metropolis of Calgary, nature was always as close as her own back yard, or the school yard across the street, or the playground down her back alley. She can even remember a horse pasture down the road from her high school - right in the middle of Calgary! The birth of her daughter, Keeya, in 2003, opened up space for Cara to experience nature from a new position. This new perspective illuminated the ways in which society and culture can constrain children’s access to nature. Out of a desire to create opportunities for young children to connect with nature, Cara opened Alberta’s first forest preschool. Her later doctoral research explored at how children form relationships with nature. These days, when not exploring Alberta’s backcountry on horseback with her daughter and her chocolate lab, she’s sharing her passion for deep connections with nature through her social work practice, her teaching and her research pursuits.
Nora LivingstoneNora Livingstone
Nora Livingstone is a co-founder and CEO of Animal Experience International a B Corp whose mission statement is: To provide clients from all different backgrounds, safe animal volunteer experiences that are locally supported and run, provide fair wages, conduct educational programs and have high standards of conservation. Nora holds a double major from Trent University in Environmental Studies and Cultural Anthropology. Understanding the importance of care for those who care, she is an Online Suicide Intervention Specialist and holds an internationally recognised competency certificate from the QPR institute. Nora also holds FEMA certifications for volunteering, leadership and deployment during natural disasters, which she was inspired to get while she was in New Orleans as an animal responder after Hurricane Katrina. While working as a volunteer coordinator at a wildlife rehabilitation centre in Canada, Nora was able to gain extensive knowledge of volunteer management. In 2012 she co-founded AEI and has had the privilege to be hosted around the world, volunteering and setting up volunteer placements in places such as, Croatia, Mongolia, Sierra Leone and Guatemala
Dr. TA LoefflerDr. TA Loeffler
Dr. TA Loeffler is an experienced educator, explorer, nature advocate, and author. TA has received much international and national recognition for her innovative teaching and community engagement. As a Professor of Outdoor Recreation at Memorial University of Newfoundland, Dr. Loeffler introduces her students to the value of nature and outdoor experiences. TA is also an incredible athlete and nature adventurer. Among other things, she has completed 6 and 4/5 of “The Seven Summits,” the highest peak on all seven continents. In 2015, TA was named to the Canada's Greatest Explorers 100 Modern-Day Trailblazers List by Canadian Geographic. Throughout her incredible journeys and outdoor adventures, TA has aimed to be a "public dreamer" to inspire and motivate others to have big dreams and big goals. Her engagement program has reached over 75,000 youth to date. Nature Canada is very happy to welcome TA to the Women for Nature initiative. She brings with her great motivational and leadership skills in addition to an incredible passion for nature.
Nora Livingstone is a co-founder and CEO of Animal Experience International a B Corp whose mission statement is: To provide clients from all different backgrounds, safe animal volunteer experiences that are locally supported and run, provide fair wages, conduct educational programs and have high standards of conservation. Nora holds a double major from Trent University in Environmental Studies and Cultural Anthropology. Understanding the importance of care for those who care, she is an Online Suicide Intervention Specialist and holds an internationally recognised competency certificate from the QPR institute. Nora also holds FEMA certifications for volunteering, leadership and deployment during natural disasters, which she was inspired to get while she was in New Orleans as an animal responder after Hurricane Katrina. While working as a volunteer coordinator at a wildlife rehabilitation centre in Canada, Nora was able to gain extensive knowledge of volunteer management. In 2012 she co-founded AEI and has had the privilege to be hosted around the world, volunteering and setting up volunteer placements in places such as, Croatia, Mongolia, Sierra Leone and Guatemala
Dr. TA Loeffler is an experienced educator, explorer, nature advocate, and author. TA has received much international and national recognition for her innovative teaching and community engagement. As a Professor of Outdoor Recreation at Memorial University of Newfoundland, Dr. Loeffler introduces her students to the value of nature and outdoor experiences. TA is also an incredible athlete and nature adventurer. Among other things, she has completed 6 and 4/5 of “The Seven Summits,” the highest peak on all seven continents. In 2015, TA was named to the Canada's Greatest Explorers 100 Modern-Day Trailblazers List by Canadian Geographic. Throughout her incredible journeys and outdoor adventures, TA has aimed to be a "public dreamer" to inspire and motivate others to have big dreams and big goals. Her engagement program has reached over 75,000 youth to date. Nature Canada is very happy to welcome TA to the Women for Nature initiative. She brings with her great motivational and leadership skills in addition to an incredible passion for nature.
Wendy MacKeiganWendy MacKeiganWendy MacKeigan is one of Canada’s most experienced and respected film executives. She is a principal of SK Films and oversees creative development for the company. Her projects include co-writing the worldwide audience and critical hit Flight of the Butterflies 3D, and producing the award-winning eco-adventure series, The Water Brothers, broadcast in over 45 countries. Prior to joining SK Films, Wendy managed the national film production and development investment programs for Astral Media (now Bell Media) as the Chair and CEO of The Harold Greenberg Fund. During her eleven year tenure, she participated in a wide range of successful feature films and English and French language television programs. Wendy also pioneered the development of programs to support digital media in Canada. For four years, Wendy was Chair of Women in Film and Television Toronto, overseeing its significant growth with the launch of critical training and business education programs, and she has also served on numerous other Boards and Committees. She believes in the important role media can play to raise awareness of environmental sustainability, especially when it comes to nature education early in a child’s life. Through raising awareness of the natural world, Wendy inspires others to help preserve the nature and Nature Canada is honoured to partner with her as a Women for Nature.
Cara MacMillan Cara MacMillan
Cara MacMillan is an innovator, author and international keynote speaker. Cara holds a BA from Carleton University, an MBA from Athabasca University, the Sustainable Investment Professional Certificate from Concordia University and is currently a doctoral candidate in Strategy and Innovation at Capella University. Passionate about protecting our climate and nature, Cara works in promoting the adoption of the Corporate Social Responsibility strategy by public and private firms as a means of differentiation and industry leadership. As the cofounder of Halcyon Consulting Group, a Climate Reality Leader, and a SheEO Activator, Cara works everyday to live her passion.
Wendy MacKeigan is one of Canada’s most experienced and respected film executives. She is a principal of SK Films and oversees creative development for the company. Her projects include co-writing the worldwide audience and critical hit Flight of the Butterflies 3D, and producing the award-winning eco-adventure series, The Water Brothers, broadcast in over 45 countries. Prior to joining SK Films, Wendy managed the national film production and development investment programs for Astral Media (now Bell Media) as the Chair and CEO of The Harold Greenberg Fund. During her eleven year tenure, she participated in a wide range of successful feature films and English and French language television programs. Wendy also pioneered the development of programs to support digital media in Canada. For four years, Wendy was Chair of Women in Film and Television Toronto, overseeing its significant growth with the launch of critical training and business education programs, and she has also served on numerous other Boards and Committees. She believes in the important role media can play to raise awareness of environmental sustainability, especially when it comes to nature education early in a child’s life. Through raising awareness of the natural world, Wendy inspires others to help preserve the nature and Nature Canada is honoured to partner with her as a Women for Nature.
Cara MacMillan is an innovator, author and international keynote speaker. Cara holds a BA from Carleton University, an MBA from Athabasca University, the Sustainable Investment Professional Certificate from Concordia University and is currently a doctoral candidate in Strategy and Innovation at Capella University. Passionate about protecting our climate and nature, Cara works in promoting the adoption of the Corporate Social Responsibility strategy by public and private firms as a means of differentiation and industry leadership. As the cofounder of Halcyon Consulting Group, a Climate Reality Leader, and a SheEO Activator, Cara works everyday to live her passion.
Marsha MannMarsha Mann
Marsha Mann is the President of No Gaps Ltd a litigation support company providing assistance in medical negligence cases on behalf of plaintiffs. She is the founding President of the Cambridge Women’s Liberal Association and serves on provincial and federal riding association boards. Marsha holds a Master of Science in Forestry from the University of New Brunswick. Marsha is an avid outdoorswoman as a member of Cambridge’s Ancient Mariners Canoe Club, and takes every opportunity to enjoy the outdoors with her family and their two Labrador retrievers.
Kelly Matheson KingKelly Matheson King
Kelly Matheson King’s Twitter tag line reads “leave the world a better place, make a difference, ride hard and never, never give up”. That passion and commitment to the protection of our natural world coupled with a decade of regulator experience in the renewable energy industry is a natural fit for our Women for Nature Initiative. Kelly has worked in various companies as director of environment. Amongst her many achievements, she was an important player in the production of alternative electricity, such as hydroelectricity, wind power, biomass power, and solar power. We welcome Kelly as a founding member of Women for Nature Initiative and look forward to her sharing her zest for life, and her commitment to preserving our natural world for many generations to come.
Marsha Mann is the President of No Gaps Ltd a litigation support company providing assistance in medical negligence cases on behalf of plaintiffs. She is the founding President of the Cambridge Women’s Liberal Association and serves on provincial and federal riding association boards. Marsha holds a Master of Science in Forestry from the University of New Brunswick. Marsha is an avid outdoorswoman as a member of Cambridge’s Ancient Mariners Canoe Club, and takes every opportunity to enjoy the outdoors with her family and their two Labrador retrievers.
Kelly Matheson King’s Twitter tag line reads “leave the world a better place, make a difference, ride hard and never, never give up”. That passion and commitment to the protection of our natural world coupled with a decade of regulator experience in the renewable energy industry is a natural fit for our Women for Nature Initiative. Kelly has worked in various companies as director of environment. Amongst her many achievements, she was an important player in the production of alternative electricity, such as hydroelectricity, wind power, biomass power, and solar power. We welcome Kelly as a founding member of Women for Nature Initiative and look forward to her sharing her zest for life, and her commitment to preserving our natural world for many generations to come.
Elizabeth MayElizabeth May
Environmentalist, writer, lawyer, activist. These are some of the many hats worn by Elizabeth May throughout her career. In 2011, May added another: Member of Parliament. Since 2006, May has served as leader of the Green Party of Canada, and under her leadership, has seen support for its goals spread across the country, which has lead to Green Party representation in two federal ridings in Parliament. An outspoken advocate for the environment, May was the executive director for the Sierra Club of Canada, from 1989 to 2006, when she took the reins of the Green Party. May's involvement with environmental issues came early in her life, when, in 1975, she joined with other local residents in a grassroots effort to stop approved aerial insecticide from being sprayed over the forests of Cape Breton Island, in her native Nova Scotia. In 2001, May went on a 17-day hunger strike in front of Parliament Hill to demand the relocation of families at risk, living next to Canada's largest toxic waste site, the Sydney Tar Ponds. These are merely examples of the many ways Elizabeth May has advocated for the preservation of Canada's natural environments. Her enthusiasm for protecting the environment is at the heart of her excitement to be part of Women for Nature.
Miriam MathewMiriam Mathew
Miriam Mathew is currently a Senior Consultant in the government relations field, leading federal advocacy, engagement, and strategic communications for trade associations and Fortune 50 companies in the energy, environment, and natural resource sectors. She fosters dialogue between industry and government, focusing on key areas such as circular economy, clean technology innovation, renewables, sustainability, and transportation. She is also active in the non-profit space, supporting emerging and established Canadian environmental and sustainability organizations to enhance their engagement, foster relationships, and devise effective communication strategies. Born in India and raised in Vancouver, Miriam's academic journey led her to Carleton University in Ottawa, where she earned two degrees—a Master's in Political Management and a Bachelor's in Business Law with a minor in Entrepreneurship.
Environmentalist, writer, lawyer, activist. These are some of the many hats worn by Elizabeth May throughout her career. In 2011, May added another: Member of Parliament. Since 2006, May has served as leader of the Green Party of Canada, and under her leadership, has seen support for its goals spread across the country, which has lead to Green Party representation in two federal ridings in Parliament. An outspoken advocate for the environment, May was the executive director for the Sierra Club of Canada, from 1989 to 2006, when she took the reins of the Green Party. May's involvement with environmental issues came early in her life, when, in 1975, she joined with other local residents in a grassroots effort to stop approved aerial insecticide from being sprayed over the forests of Cape Breton Island, in her native Nova Scotia. In 2001, May went on a 17-day hunger strike in front of Parliament Hill to demand the relocation of families at risk, living next to Canada's largest toxic waste site, the Sydney Tar Ponds. These are merely examples of the many ways Elizabeth May has advocated for the preservation of Canada's natural environments. Her enthusiasm for protecting the environment is at the heart of her excitement to be part of Women for Nature.
Miriam Mathew is currently a Senior Consultant in the government relations field, leading federal advocacy, engagement, and strategic communications for trade associations and Fortune 50 companies in the energy, environment, and natural resource sectors. She fosters dialogue between industry and government, focusing on key areas such as circular economy, clean technology innovation, renewables, sustainability, and transportation. She is also active in the non-profit space, supporting emerging and established Canadian environmental and sustainability organizations to enhance their engagement, foster relationships, and devise effective communication strategies. Born in India and raised in Vancouver, Miriam's academic journey led her to Carleton University in Ottawa, where she earned two degrees—a Master's in Political Management and a Bachelor's in Business Law with a minor in Entrepreneurship.
Jennie McCaffreyJennie McCaffrey
Jennie is the Vice-President of Strategic Relationships at the BC Parks Foundation, and has
always been passionate about connecting people to nearby nature, for their health and the health of the planet. Jennie’s career as a conservation educator started at the Vancouver Aquarium, and lead to teaching master’s course at the University of British Columbia on education outside the classroom, training educators across the province through the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation and Fisheries and Oceans Canada, leading Indigenous learning initiatives and change management at the Invasive Species Council of BC, and growing a community of support for nature through her work focused on health, learning and stewardship with the BC Parks Foundation. Jennie specializes in leading strategic initiatives with non-profit organizations, collaborating with governments, First Nations, school districts, communities and industry groups. She has a deep commitment to community, and has volunteered with BC Nature and NatureKids BC and has contributed to multiple Boards, including the BIG Little Science Centre. Jennie is grateful to be raising her family on Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), Stó:lō and Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) and xwməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam) Territory.
“The privilege and magic of growing up on the beaches and in the mountains around Vancouver, and camping and swimming on the islands of the Salish Sea, inspired a deep passion for nature. I dream of a future where enjoying nature is a daily habit for all, creating to a healthier population supporting a healthier planet.” Velma McCollVelma McColl
Velma McColl studied at the University of British Columbia and the Banff School of Management. As co-founder of the Canadian Clean Technology Coalition and Women in Government Relations, she holds a leadership role with several organizations including, Sustainable Prosperity and the Ryan's Well Foundation. She joined the Earnscliffe Strategy Group in 2004, where she now works on economic and social issues, specializing in energy, environment and green technologies. Previously, she acted as an advisor for several Federal Cabinet Ministers on political strategy, policy and communications with a specific focus on energy and climate change issues. Velma developed her love of nature growing up in the Canadian Rockies, through various adventures exploring the West Coast and later in her life, discovering Atlantic Canada and the Canadian Shield. As a member of the Women for Nature Initiative she brings her experiences as a successful entrepreneur, working collaboratively with business, academia, not-for-profit organizations and the public sector.
Jennie is the Vice-President of Strategic Relationships at the BC Parks Foundation, and has
always been passionate about connecting people to nearby nature, for their health and the health of the planet. Jennie’s career as a conservation educator started at the Vancouver Aquarium, and lead to teaching master’s course at the University of British Columbia on education outside the classroom, training educators across the province through the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation and Fisheries and Oceans Canada, leading Indigenous learning initiatives and change management at the Invasive Species Council of BC, and growing a community of support for nature through her work focused on health, learning and stewardship with the BC Parks Foundation. Jennie specializes in leading strategic initiatives with non-profit organizations, collaborating with governments, First Nations, school districts, communities and industry groups. She has a deep commitment to community, and has volunteered with BC Nature and NatureKids BC and has contributed to multiple Boards, including the BIG Little Science Centre. Jennie is grateful to be raising her family on Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), Stó:lō and Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) and xwməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam) Territory.
“The privilege and magic of growing up on the beaches and in the mountains around Vancouver, and camping and swimming on the islands of the Salish Sea, inspired a deep passion for nature. I dream of a future where enjoying nature is a daily habit for all, creating to a healthier population supporting a healthier planet.”Velma McColl studied at the University of British Columbia and the Banff School of Management. As co-founder of the Canadian Clean Technology Coalition and Women in Government Relations, she holds a leadership role with several organizations including, Sustainable Prosperity and the Ryan's Well Foundation. She joined the Earnscliffe Strategy Group in 2004, where she now works on economic and social issues, specializing in energy, environment and green technologies. Previously, she acted as an advisor for several Federal Cabinet Ministers on political strategy, policy and communications with a specific focus on energy and climate change issues. Velma developed her love of nature growing up in the Canadian Rockies, through various adventures exploring the West Coast and later in her life, discovering Atlantic Canada and the Canadian Shield. As a member of the Women for Nature Initiative she brings her experiences as a successful entrepreneur, working collaboratively with business, academia, not-for-profit organizations and the public sector.
Hon. Catherine McKenna
Isabel Metcalfe Stephanie MeyerStephanie Meyer
Stephanie Meyer has long been involved in changing behaviours towards more sustainable practices. As President and co-founder of Stratos, a leading Canadian sustainability consultancy, Stephanie works with the public and private sectors to develop actionable strategies for sustainability and to integrate environmental considerations into their decision-making and management processes. She has worked with a wide range of organizations - from museums, to mining companies, to financial institutions - to help them reduce their environmental impact and enhance their environmental and social benefits. Early in her career, Stephanie was the environment, health and safety specialist for NIKE's Canadian manufacturing operations. She holds a Master's Degree in Environmental Studies from Dalhousie University. Outside the office, Stephanie enjoys the outdoors with her family and friends, including hiking, climbing and paddling. Nature Canada is excited to partner with Stephanie in our Women for Nature Initiative as she brings her expertise to our efforts to connect more Canadians to nature.
Stephanie Meyer has long been involved in changing behaviours towards more sustainable practices. As President and co-founder of Stratos, a leading Canadian sustainability consultancy, Stephanie works with the public and private sectors to develop actionable strategies for sustainability and to integrate environmental considerations into their decision-making and management processes. She has worked with a wide range of organizations - from museums, to mining companies, to financial institutions - to help them reduce their environmental impact and enhance their environmental and social benefits. Early in her career, Stephanie was the environment, health and safety specialist for NIKE's Canadian manufacturing operations. She holds a Master's Degree in Environmental Studies from Dalhousie University. Outside the office, Stephanie enjoys the outdoors with her family and friends, including hiking, climbing and paddling. Nature Canada is excited to partner with Stephanie in our Women for Nature Initiative as she brings her expertise to our efforts to connect more Canadians to nature.
The Honourable Lois E. MitchellThe Honourable Lois E. Mitchell
Her Honour, the Honourable Lois E. Mitchell, CM AOE, LLD
Lieutenant Governor of Alberta
Lois Mitchell is an accomplished businesswoman and a proud, longstanding member of Alberta’s dedicated corps of community volunteers. She spent many years working as an entrepreneur, developing and growing successful marketing and corporate training firms and later serving as a founding partner of Rainmaker Global Business Development in Calgary. Her Honour’s résumé as a community volunteer includes service in a wide range of areas, including sport, education, the arts, national unity and support for Canada’s men and women in uniform.
Her Honour, the Honourable Lois E. Mitchell, CM AOE, LLD
Lieutenant Governor of Alberta
Lois Mitchell is an accomplished businesswoman and a proud, longstanding member of Alberta’s dedicated corps of community volunteers. She spent many years working as an entrepreneur, developing and growing successful marketing and corporate training firms and later serving as a founding partner of Rainmaker Global Business Development in Calgary. Her Honour’s résumé as a community volunteer includes service in a wide range of areas, including sport, education, the arts, national unity and support for Canada’s men and women in uniform.
Juanita MontalvoJuanita Montalvo
Juanita Montalvo is the Senior Vice President, Corporate Affairs and Sustainability, at Sherritt International Corporation in Toronto, Canada. She became the SVP of Corporate Services after serving as the Deputy Managing Director and Director of External Affairs for the Ambatovy Project as well as the Country Manager for Sherritt International Corporation in Madagascar. Prior to moving to Madagascar in 2008, she was the VP of Operations Support in Cuba and General Manager of Sherritt’s Soy Processing Company. She joined Sherritt in 1997 where she has held various positions at the corporate and operations levels. Prior to joining Sherritt, she was the Interim Executive Director and Director of Programs of the Canadian Foundation for the Americas (FOCAL), after starting her career at the International Development Research Centre (IDRC). Juanita is and active contributor to conservation and responsible resource development initiatives; is passionate about the visual and performing arts; and is an avid contributor to emerging artistic projects. She is a member of the board of directors of Canada’s National Ballet School and was instrumental in initiating the Sherritt Collection of Contemporary Cuban Art at the Art Gallery of Ontario. Juanita holds a Masters in Development Economics, a Bachelor of Arts in International Development Studies, and a Bachelor of Science in Biology, all from Dalhousie University, Canada. Nature Canada is thrilled to work with Juanita as a founding member of the Women for Nature Initiative.
Tracey MosleyTracey MosleyTracey Mosley is a registered Canadian trademark agent, recently retired after 30 years in practice. She has written and taught extensively about trademark law. She has volunteered for many years with the Intellectual Property Institute of Canada, as a councillor, tutor and examination board member for those entering the profession. Currently she a committee chair with IPIC. Over the years she has volunteered in children's literacy and community garden efforts. Tracey is a volunteer Community Food Advisor with City of Ottawa Public Health. Thanks to her dedication to her community, Nature Canada is fortunate to have Tracey's passion and efforts on the Women for Nature caucus.
Juanita Montalvo is the Senior Vice President, Corporate Affairs and Sustainability, at Sherritt International Corporation in Toronto, Canada. She became the SVP of Corporate Services after serving as the Deputy Managing Director and Director of External Affairs for the Ambatovy Project as well as the Country Manager for Sherritt International Corporation in Madagascar. Prior to moving to Madagascar in 2008, she was the VP of Operations Support in Cuba and General Manager of Sherritt’s Soy Processing Company. She joined Sherritt in 1997 where she has held various positions at the corporate and operations levels. Prior to joining Sherritt, she was the Interim Executive Director and Director of Programs of the Canadian Foundation for the Americas (FOCAL), after starting her career at the International Development Research Centre (IDRC). Juanita is and active contributor to conservation and responsible resource development initiatives; is passionate about the visual and performing arts; and is an avid contributor to emerging artistic projects. She is a member of the board of directors of Canada’s National Ballet School and was instrumental in initiating the Sherritt Collection of Contemporary Cuban Art at the Art Gallery of Ontario. Juanita holds a Masters in Development Economics, a Bachelor of Arts in International Development Studies, and a Bachelor of Science in Biology, all from Dalhousie University, Canada. Nature Canada is thrilled to work with Juanita as a founding member of the Women for Nature Initiative.
Tracey Mosley is a registered Canadian trademark agent, recently retired after 30 years in practice. She has written and taught extensively about trademark law. She has volunteered for many years with the Intellectual Property Institute of Canada, as a councillor, tutor and examination board member for those entering the profession. Currently she a committee chair with IPIC. Over the years she has volunteered in children's literacy and community garden efforts. Tracey is a volunteer Community Food Advisor with City of Ottawa Public Health. Thanks to her dedication to her community, Nature Canada is fortunate to have Tracey's passion and efforts on the Women for Nature caucus.
Anne MurrayAnne Murray
Anne Murray is a lifelong birdwatcher, naturalist, and author whose books celebrate the wonders and beauty of Boundary Bay and the Fraser delta, British Columbia. She is an outspoken advocate for nature conservation, writing regular newspaper columns, articles and blogs, commenting on radio and television, and making presentations to the public. Her record of volunteerism is exceptional, including several years serving on Nature Canada's board of directors and as President of BC Nature. She is currently on the board of Bird Studies Canada and has volunteered with Sierra Legal Defence Fund (now Ecojustice), the Delta Farmland and Wildlife Trust, and the Delta Museum and Archives, among other organizations. A recipient of the Queens Golden Jubilee medal, Anne has always been a true friend of Nature Canada, and of nature.
Joyce MurrayJoyce Murray
Joyce Murray's journey from tree planter to Member of Parliament is exceptional. After co-founding an international reforestation company that has planted over a billion trees, Joyce entered provincial, then federal politics ready to make a difference for nature. With her extensive experience in the environmental and business community, Joyce was appointed British Columbia's Environment Minister, spearheading years of negotiations to create the Burns Bog Environmental Conservation Area, and collaborating with BC's 13 oil producers to find a cooperative solution to recycle the 22 million liters of oil that enters BC's waste stream annually. For her work as Environment Minister, Joyce received a Sierra Club of Canada Eco-Olympic Medal. Elected to the House of Commons in 2008, she later introduced her Private Member's Bill C-606, to legislate a crude oil tanker ban to protect BC's North Coast. Joyce is the Critic for Small Business and Tourism, the Asia-Pacific Gateway, and Western Economic Diversification (WED), and chairs the Liberal Party's Northern and Western Caucus. She has served on several Standing Committees, including: Fisheries and Oceans, Environment and Sustainable Development, Health, and International Trade. Joyce also chairs the All-Party International Conservation Caucus, with the mandate of promoting evidence-based conservation policy in Parliament. In 2012-13, Joyce ran as a candidate for Leadership of the Liberal Party of Canada on a platform of a Sustainable Society for Canada, placing second.
Anne Murray is a lifelong birdwatcher, naturalist, and author whose books celebrate the wonders and beauty of Boundary Bay and the Fraser delta, British Columbia. She is an outspoken advocate for nature conservation, writing regular newspaper columns, articles and blogs, commenting on radio and television, and making presentations to the public. Her record of volunteerism is exceptional, including several years serving on Nature Canada's board of directors and as President of BC Nature. She is currently on the board of Bird Studies Canada and has volunteered with Sierra Legal Defence Fund (now Ecojustice), the Delta Farmland and Wildlife Trust, and the Delta Museum and Archives, among other organizations. A recipient of the Queens Golden Jubilee medal, Anne has always been a true friend of Nature Canada, and of nature.
Joyce Murray's journey from tree planter to Member of Parliament is exceptional. After co-founding an international reforestation company that has planted over a billion trees, Joyce entered provincial, then federal politics ready to make a difference for nature. With her extensive experience in the environmental and business community, Joyce was appointed British Columbia's Environment Minister, spearheading years of negotiations to create the Burns Bog Environmental Conservation Area, and collaborating with BC's 13 oil producers to find a cooperative solution to recycle the 22 million liters of oil that enters BC's waste stream annually. For her work as Environment Minister, Joyce received a Sierra Club of Canada Eco-Olympic Medal. Elected to the House of Commons in 2008, she later introduced her Private Member's Bill C-606, to legislate a crude oil tanker ban to protect BC's North Coast. Joyce is the Critic for Small Business and Tourism, the Asia-Pacific Gateway, and Western Economic Diversification (WED), and chairs the Liberal Party's Northern and Western Caucus. She has served on several Standing Committees, including: Fisheries and Oceans, Environment and Sustainable Development, Health, and International Trade. Joyce also chairs the All-Party International Conservation Caucus, with the mandate of promoting evidence-based conservation policy in Parliament. In 2012-13, Joyce ran as a candidate for Leadership of the Liberal Party of Canada on a platform of a Sustainable Society for Canada, placing second.
Alexia NaidooAlexia Naidoo
As Director of Strategic Communications at the National Gallery of Canada Foundation, Alexia is privileged to build support for the nation’s visual arts heritage. Now, as an ambassador for Women for Nature, she hopes to do the same for the wild spaces, flora, and fauna that make up Canada’s natural heritage. Alexia received an Honours degree in Political Science from the University of Victoria. After earning a Master of Journalism degree from Carleton University, she began her career in broadcast journalism, working as a reporter and producer for CTV, Rogers TV, and Global. For both television and print, Alexia has covered various environmental issues, including green living, species at risk, and sustainable development. Alexia left television to work on the Hill which ultimately led to her starting her own consultancy and becoming a leading expert in communications, government relations, and development strategy. She now uses those skills at the National Gallery where she believes the nexus of creativity, innovation, and sustainability can bring solutions for Canada’s future generations. As a member of Women for Nature, Alexia is honoured to be amongst such an inspiring group of Canadian leaders!
Margaret Newall
As Director of Strategic Communications at the National Gallery of Canada Foundation, Alexia is privileged to build support for the nation’s visual arts heritage. Now, as an ambassador for Women for Nature, she hopes to do the same for the wild spaces, flora, and fauna that make up Canada’s natural heritage. Alexia received an Honours degree in Political Science from the University of Victoria. After earning a Master of Journalism degree from Carleton University, she began her career in broadcast journalism, working as a reporter and producer for CTV, Rogers TV, and Global. For both television and print, Alexia has covered various environmental issues, including green living, species at risk, and sustainable development. Alexia left television to work on the Hill which ultimately led to her starting her own consultancy and becoming a leading expert in communications, government relations, and development strategy. She now uses those skills at the National Gallery where she believes the nexus of creativity, innovation, and sustainability can bring solutions for Canada’s future generations. As a member of Women for Nature, Alexia is honoured to be amongst such an inspiring group of Canadian leaders!
Linda NowlanLinda Nowlan
For over three decades, Linda has dedicated herself to environmental law. As Executive
Director and Staff Counsel at West Coast Environmental Law (WCEL), she led a team to
strengthen ocean protection. Previously she was a conservation director at WWF-Canada and a
litigation lawyer. She has also taught environmental law at UBC, and is currently in her seventh
year on the Board of Trustees of the Canadian Museum of Nature. Her advocacy has
contributed to multiple law reforms, most recently involving the federal Oceans Act and BC
Coastal Strategy. She also received an Andrew Thompson Award honouring “50 Years of
Changemakers for Environmental Justice” from WCEL in 2024. Most of all, Linda finds immense
joy in nature.
For over three decades, Linda has dedicated herself to environmental law. As Executive
Director and Staff Counsel at West Coast Environmental Law (WCEL), she led a team to
strengthen ocean protection. Previously she was a conservation director at WWF-Canada and a
litigation lawyer. She has also taught environmental law at UBC, and is currently in her seventh
year on the Board of Trustees of the Canadian Museum of Nature. Her advocacy has
contributed to multiple law reforms, most recently involving the federal Oceans Act and BC
Coastal Strategy. She also received an Andrew Thompson Award honouring “50 Years of
Changemakers for Environmental Justice” from WCEL in 2024. Most of all, Linda finds immense
joy in nature.
Rhonda Oblin Dr. Sarah (Sally) OttoDr. Sarah (Sally) Otto Dr. Sarah (Sally) Otto is a professor in the Department of Zoology and the Biodiversity Research Centre at the University of British Columbia. Sally helped establish the Canadian Society of Ecology and Evolution and the Liber Ero Postdoctoral Fellowship program in conservation biology. She has also served as President and Vice President of the Society for the Study of Evolution, and the Vice President of the American Society of Naturalists and the European Society of Evolutionary Biology, as well as serving on several editorial boards. A highly acclaimed scientist, Sally received the coveted MacArthur Fellowship - popularly known as the Genius Award - in 2011. Other awards include a Guggenheim Fellowship, a McDowell Award for Excellence in Research (UBC), a Steacie Fellowship (Natural Sciences and Research Council; Canada), the Steacie Prize (National Research Council, Canada), and the Sewall Wright Award (American Society of Naturalists). Her research seeks to understand how evolutionary processes have shaped the wondrous diversity of biological features observed in the natural world, and thus helping to preserve it. Her work exemplifies the priority that Women for Nature place of biodiversity conservation and we are delighted to partner with Dr. Otto.
Grace PattersonGrace Patterson
Grace Patterson is a lawyer and past Canadian Environmental Law Association Clinic Director. She was chair of the Environmental Assessment Board (now the Environmental Review Tribunal) from 1990 - 1997. She has lectured on environmental law at Queen's University. Currently, Grace is practicing municipal law with the City of Toronto's legal division. Grace's legal expertise and longstanding commitment to the environment is a welcomed addition to our Women for Nature Initiative.
Dr. Sarah (Sally) Otto is a professor in the Department of Zoology and the Biodiversity Research Centre at the University of British Columbia. Sally helped establish the Canadian Society of Ecology and Evolution and the Liber Ero Postdoctoral Fellowship program in conservation biology. She has also served as President and Vice President of the Society for the Study of Evolution, and the Vice President of the American Society of Naturalists and the European Society of Evolutionary Biology, as well as serving on several editorial boards. A highly acclaimed scientist, Sally received the coveted MacArthur Fellowship - popularly known as the Genius Award - in 2011. Other awards include a Guggenheim Fellowship, a McDowell Award for Excellence in Research (UBC), a Steacie Fellowship (Natural Sciences and Research Council; Canada), the Steacie Prize (National Research Council, Canada), and the Sewall Wright Award (American Society of Naturalists). Her research seeks to understand how evolutionary processes have shaped the wondrous diversity of biological features observed in the natural world, and thus helping to preserve it. Her work exemplifies the priority that Women for Nature place of biodiversity conservation and we are delighted to partner with Dr. Otto.
Grace Patterson is a lawyer and past Canadian Environmental Law Association Clinic Director. She was chair of the Environmental Assessment Board (now the Environmental Review Tribunal) from 1990 - 1997. She has lectured on environmental law at Queen's University. Currently, Grace is practicing municipal law with the City of Toronto's legal division. Grace's legal expertise and longstanding commitment to the environment is a welcomed addition to our Women for Nature Initiative.
Suzanne Paleczny Suzanne Paleczny
Suzanne Paleczny is a visual artist who lives and works in the beautiful wilderness of Yukon. Her work is inspired by the human form and by the challenges of expressing the human condition. She is strongly influenced by her personal relationship with nature and the north. Her studies in forestry and work in nature education, and subsequent degree in cultural studies and philosophy have fueled her exploration of two converging topics: the realities of the physical and the philosophical worlds. Living abroad in Zimbabwe and Egypt have added to her perspectives on how societies see the world and has given her an appreciation of the fluid nature of ‘being’. Suzanne is a life-long learner; she studied painting, drawing, anatomy and sculpture at the acclaimed New York Academy of Art in 2016. She likes to examine the complexities and contradictions of contemporary life, and challenge her viewers with the scale of her work. Her most recent body of larger-than-life works -- Human/Nature, examines the complex relationship we hold with the natural world. Suzanne’s works are in public and private collections in Canada, Egypt, the United Kingdom and the United States. Suzanne is a proud mother of three and a grandmother.
Nadia PetrolitoNadia Petrolito
Nadia Petrolito is Vice President, General Counsel & Chief Communications Officer (CCO) at L’Oréal Canada.
She joined L’Oréal Canada in July 2006 as a Legal Counsel and headed the department as of 2007.
In her current role, Ms. Petrolito is in charge of the Legal Affairs and Corporate Communications departments. She also heads the Corporate Social Responsibility Program, Sharing Beauty With All, which is an important priority for L’Oréal Canada as well as for the Group.
Ms. Petrolito is also part of the Group’s worldwide network of 57 Ethics Correspondents whose mandate is to support Country Managers in deploying L’Oréal’s Ethics Program.
She is a member of L’Oréal Canada’s Executive Committee, as well as the Executive Committees of the Canadian Cosmetics Toiletry Fragrance Association (CCTFA) as well as its Foundation.
Ms. Petrolito holds an Honors degree in Sociology of the University of Western Ontario and a Licence in Civil Law of the University of Ottawa. She was admitted to the Barreau du Québec in 1997. She started her career in the law offices of Chait Amyot (which became subsequently deGrandpré Chait) and as In House Legal Counsel for another consumer goods company.
Suzanne Paleczny is a visual artist who lives and works in the beautiful wilderness of Yukon. Her work is inspired by the human form and by the challenges of expressing the human condition. She is strongly influenced by her personal relationship with nature and the north. Her studies in forestry and work in nature education, and subsequent degree in cultural studies and philosophy have fueled her exploration of two converging topics: the realities of the physical and the philosophical worlds. Living abroad in Zimbabwe and Egypt have added to her perspectives on how societies see the world and has given her an appreciation of the fluid nature of ‘being’. Suzanne is a life-long learner; she studied painting, drawing, anatomy and sculpture at the acclaimed New York Academy of Art in 2016. She likes to examine the complexities and contradictions of contemporary life, and challenge her viewers with the scale of her work. Her most recent body of larger-than-life works -- Human/Nature, examines the complex relationship we hold with the natural world. Suzanne’s works are in public and private collections in Canada, Egypt, the United Kingdom and the United States. Suzanne is a proud mother of three and a grandmother.
Nadia Petrolito is Vice President, General Counsel & Chief Communications Officer (CCO) at L’Oréal Canada.
She joined L’Oréal Canada in July 2006 as a Legal Counsel and headed the department as of 2007.
In her current role, Ms. Petrolito is in charge of the Legal Affairs and Corporate Communications departments. She also heads the Corporate Social Responsibility Program, Sharing Beauty With All, which is an important priority for L’Oréal Canada as well as for the Group.
Ms. Petrolito is also part of the Group’s worldwide network of 57 Ethics Correspondents whose mandate is to support Country Managers in deploying L’Oréal’s Ethics Program.
She is a member of L’Oréal Canada’s Executive Committee, as well as the Executive Committees of the Canadian Cosmetics Toiletry Fragrance Association (CCTFA) as well as its Foundation.
Ms. Petrolito holds an Honors degree in Sociology of the University of Western Ontario and a Licence in Civil Law of the University of Ottawa. She was admitted to the Barreau du Québec in 1997. She started her career in the law offices of Chait Amyot (which became subsequently deGrandpré Chait) and as In House Legal Counsel for another consumer goods company.
Kirsten PelchatKirsten Pelchat
Kirsten Pelchat is the CEO & co-founder of Elva’s All Naturals, an award-winning Canadian lifestyle brand dedicated to creating high-performance, all-natural alternatives for personal care and household use. Based in Prince Edward County, Ontario, Elva’s is rooted in Kirsten’s passion for wellness, environmental responsibility and her belief that truly natural products should both delight and deliver results. The brand is named after her beloved Nana Elva, and reflects a family legacy of care, passion for nature, and integrity.
Kirsten’s love of nature was shaped by her upbringing in rural Ontario and Quebec and deepened through her early involvement with Greenpeace. After graduating from McGill University, her career began in the corporate sector with roles in high tech and media, including at the TSX, BCE Emergis, and The Canadian Press. She then dedicated over two decades to teaching and mentoring youth as a vocal coach and studio director. A classically trained opera singer and seasoned performer, Kirsten ran a thriving vocal studio where she taught hundreds of students and produced more than 30 concerts that nurtured creativity, confidence, and community.
Under Kirsten’s leadership, Elva’s All Naturals has grown from an idea started in her kitchen into a mission-driven and recognized national brand that helps families live cleaner, healthier lives – without compromise. Kirsten and her company are known for their commitment to eliminating toxic chemicals and waste while crafting products that are safe, effective, and a joy to use. Elva’s signature product, 1 CLEANER, has been featured on national television, including The Marilyn Denis Show, CityLine, Global News, and The Good Stuff with Mary Berg. Kirsten has also shared her expertise on podcasts and continues to be a thoughtful voice in the natural wellness and sustainability space.
A strong advocate for conscious living and environmental stewardship, Kirsten leads with compassion and purpose, combining a deep love for the natural world with a passion for innovation. At home, Kirsten and her partner Ian live a life rooted in purpose and creativity—practicing regenerative gardening, and drawing daily inspiration from their land and their ever-faithful rescue dog, Moxie. They are proud parents to four grown children and strive to live lightly on the earth—all while building a company that reflects their values.
As a member of Women for Nature, Kirsten brings a compassionate, grounded perspective shaped by decades of nurturing growth—whether in students, communities, or the planet itself.
Kirsten Pelchat is the CEO & co-founder of Elva’s All Naturals, an award-winning Canadian lifestyle brand dedicated to creating high-performance, all-natural alternatives for personal care and household use. Based in Prince Edward County, Ontario, Elva’s is rooted in Kirsten’s passion for wellness, environmental responsibility and her belief that truly natural products should both delight and deliver results. The brand is named after her beloved Nana Elva, and reflects a family legacy of care, passion for nature, and integrity.
Kirsten’s love of nature was shaped by her upbringing in rural Ontario and Quebec and deepened through her early involvement with Greenpeace. After graduating from McGill University, her career began in the corporate sector with roles in high tech and media, including at the TSX, BCE Emergis, and The Canadian Press. She then dedicated over two decades to teaching and mentoring youth as a vocal coach and studio director. A classically trained opera singer and seasoned performer, Kirsten ran a thriving vocal studio where she taught hundreds of students and produced more than 30 concerts that nurtured creativity, confidence, and community.
Under Kirsten’s leadership, Elva’s All Naturals has grown from an idea started in her kitchen into a mission-driven and recognized national brand that helps families live cleaner, healthier lives – without compromise. Kirsten and her company are known for their commitment to eliminating toxic chemicals and waste while crafting products that are safe, effective, and a joy to use. Elva’s signature product, 1 CLEANER, has been featured on national television, including The Marilyn Denis Show, CityLine, Global News, and The Good Stuff with Mary Berg. Kirsten has also shared her expertise on podcasts and continues to be a thoughtful voice in the natural wellness and sustainability space.
A strong advocate for conscious living and environmental stewardship, Kirsten leads with compassion and purpose, combining a deep love for the natural world with a passion for innovation. At home, Kirsten and her partner Ian live a life rooted in purpose and creativity—practicing regenerative gardening, and drawing daily inspiration from their land and their ever-faithful rescue dog, Moxie. They are proud parents to four grown children and strive to live lightly on the earth—all while building a company that reflects their values.
As a member of Women for Nature, Kirsten brings a compassionate, grounded perspective shaped by decades of nurturing growth—whether in students, communities, or the planet itself.
Christy PettitChristy Pettit
For 20 years, Christy Pettit has provided innovative leadership, expert advice and successful implementation of organizational development in companies worldwide. She consistently creates strategies that make a lasting difference within businesses, often doubling the value of their internal resources. An original thinker, Christy’s career includes impressive deliverables such as custom assessment systems, supporting billion dollar clients through transformation and increasing employee engagement while decreasing overall cost. Christy started her career as an organizational development consultant at a large hospital group in 1994, and before co-founding ODScore®, was an EVP responsible for the consulting and measurement division of a global training and development institute.
Christy’s education includes a Bachelor of Arts in English and History from the University of Toronto, and earned both a Graduate Diploma in Management and a MBA from Athabasca University’s Centre for Innovative Management. As our newest Women for Nature member, her knowledge and expertise will guide the success of our Women for Nature mentorship initiative.
Jessica RobertsonJessica Robertson
Jessica Robertson is the co-founder of Moksha/Modo Yoga, New Leaf Yoga Foundation, and Modo Yoga LA. She also co-directs Moksha/Mod Yoga International, and is a teacher, activist, musician student, and consultant for enlivening yoga philosophy in business and community. She grew up on a farm with her parents in a community guided by her primary teacher Baba Hari Das. She studied yoga from 18 – 23 years old before teaching. Her greatest learning comes from being in nature and from practicing every day. Jessica did graduate work in Buddhism in the United Kingdom, and studied History and the Anthropology of Medicine & Anatomy at McGill University. Before teaching yoga, she worked in the not-for-profit sector with Amnesty International, EarthSave, and the Canadian Association for Community Living in Panama. Jessica strongly believes in the importance of the physical, spiritual and mental health benefits found by spending time in nature.
For 20 years, Christy Pettit has provided innovative leadership, expert advice and successful implementation of organizational development in companies worldwide. She consistently creates strategies that make a lasting difference within businesses, often doubling the value of their internal resources. An original thinker, Christy’s career includes impressive deliverables such as custom assessment systems, supporting billion dollar clients through transformation and increasing employee engagement while decreasing overall cost. Christy started her career as an organizational development consultant at a large hospital group in 1994, and before co-founding ODScore®, was an EVP responsible for the consulting and measurement division of a global training and development institute.
Christy’s education includes a Bachelor of Arts in English and History from the University of Toronto, and earned both a Graduate Diploma in Management and a MBA from Athabasca University’s Centre for Innovative Management. As our newest Women for Nature member, her knowledge and expertise will guide the success of our Women for Nature mentorship initiative.
Jessica Robertson is the co-founder of Moksha/Modo Yoga, New Leaf Yoga Foundation, and Modo Yoga LA. She also co-directs Moksha/Mod Yoga International, and is a teacher, activist, musician student, and consultant for enlivening yoga philosophy in business and community. She grew up on a farm with her parents in a community guided by her primary teacher Baba Hari Das. She studied yoga from 18 – 23 years old before teaching. Her greatest learning comes from being in nature and from practicing every day. Jessica did graduate work in Buddhism in the United Kingdom, and studied History and the Anthropology of Medicine & Anatomy at McGill University. Before teaching yoga, she worked in the not-for-profit sector with Amnesty International, EarthSave, and the Canadian Association for Community Living in Panama. Jessica strongly believes in the importance of the physical, spiritual and mental health benefits found by spending time in nature.
Susan RohacSusan Rohac
Susan Rohac is the Managing Partner of the Climate Tech fund at BDC Capital. In this role, Susan leads a team of investment professionals and has over $1B of assets under management including a second $400M fund launched in 2022 which focuses on investing in Canada’s most promising cleantech companies. To date, the team has invested across a wide spectrum of sectors including; CCUS, hydrogen, energy storage/battery, mobility, agri/food and advanced materials. Susan was recognized in 2024 by the Clean50 and was a Clean16 Honouree.
With 30 years’ experience in the financial services, banking and venture capital sectors, Susan provides support and guidance to a team of dedicated professionals serving the Cleantech sector in Canada. An involved leader, she strives to ensure that BDC provides not only capital but genuine value in terms of insight, counsel and ongoing business guidance. Susan holds honour degrees in both Science and Finance and an executive MBA.
Maggie Romuld Maggie Romuld 
Maggie Romuld has described herself as being a science junkie for most of her life, focused primarily on biology, ecology, and geography. Maggie believes in the value of environmental education and has taught biology and earth science courses at various institutions in British Columbia and Alberta for over 20 years. While she was teaching, Maggie founded Flatland Environmental, a small environmental communications company whose goal is to “connect people to the planet.” A long-time member of several environmental Boards of Directors, Maggie recently joined the newly-formed Board of the Canadian Network for Ocean Literacy. Maggie is also a former Executive Director of the South East Alberta Watershed Alliance and she continues to help several environmental non-profit organizations – most recently Palliser Airshed Society – with their outreach and public education programs. Maggie writes freelance nature and science articles and tries to make science understandable to all. Her goal to ensure meaningful conversations about issues that affect us is completely in line with the aims and intents of Women for Nature and we are delighted to have her involvement.
Susan Rohac is the Managing Partner of the Climate Tech fund at BDC Capital. In this role, Susan leads a team of investment professionals and has over $1B of assets under management including a second $400M fund launched in 2022 which focuses on investing in Canada’s most promising cleantech companies. To date, the team has invested across a wide spectrum of sectors including; CCUS, hydrogen, energy storage/battery, mobility, agri/food and advanced materials. Susan was recognized in 2024 by the Clean50 and was a Clean16 Honouree.
With 30 years’ experience in the financial services, banking and venture capital sectors, Susan provides support and guidance to a team of dedicated professionals serving the Cleantech sector in Canada. An involved leader, she strives to ensure that BDC provides not only capital but genuine value in terms of insight, counsel and ongoing business guidance. Susan holds honour degrees in both Science and Finance and an executive MBA.
Maggie Romuld has described herself as being a science junkie for most of her life, focused primarily on biology, ecology, and geography. Maggie believes in the value of environmental education and has taught biology and earth science courses at various institutions in British Columbia and Alberta for over 20 years. While she was teaching, Maggie founded Flatland Environmental, a small environmental communications company whose goal is to “connect people to the planet.” A long-time member of several environmental Boards of Directors, Maggie recently joined the newly-formed Board of the Canadian Network for Ocean Literacy. Maggie is also a former Executive Director of the South East Alberta Watershed Alliance and she continues to help several environmental non-profit organizations – most recently Palliser Airshed Society – with their outreach and public education programs. Maggie writes freelance nature and science articles and tries to make science understandable to all. Her goal to ensure meaningful conversations about issues that affect us is completely in line with the aims and intents of Women for Nature and we are delighted to have her involvement.
The Honourable Jocelyne Roy-Vinneau Denise Di SantoDenise Di Santo
Denise’s love of nature is rooted in growing up in the Canadian Rockies and later, in experiencing the waters of the Salish Sea as a divemaster and explorer of coastlines and hiking trails. She began her career in watershed stewardship in western Canada studying earth sciences, and teaching science, social and environmental studies at all education levels, including as an adjunct professor. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree– Geography, and another in Secondary Education. With over 15 years’ experience since completing a Master of Science degree in Renewable Natural Resources with a focus on water and policy, Denise understands that watershed management is more about managing us, as human beings inextricably linked to nature. Her path has led her to projects that protect water and land and restore ecological and watershed health. Denise has worked in both public and private sectors, using her technical expertise to protect and restore aquatic habitat for endangered salmon, and overall watershed function in rural and urban settings. As a public servant in Canada and the United States, she has served at state and local government levels to develop policy and manage programs and projects with on the ground outcomes. As a consultant, Denise led engagement with First Nations to support their meaningful involvement in water resource planning initiatives. When she isn’t working with communities to protect and restore land, she enjoys hiking, writing, and being inspired by the stories of others. Denise recently contributed “When Water Isn’t Life: Environmental Justice Denied” to Signs of Water – Community Perspectives on Water, Responsibility and Hope, a collection of writings centred on the human relationship with water. Denise is excited to bring her experiences as a steward of water and land to the Women for Nature initiative.
Denise’s love of nature is rooted in growing up in the Canadian Rockies and later, in experiencing the waters of the Salish Sea as a divemaster and explorer of coastlines and hiking trails. She began her career in watershed stewardship in western Canada studying earth sciences, and teaching science, social and environmental studies at all education levels, including as an adjunct professor. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree– Geography, and another in Secondary Education. With over 15 years’ experience since completing a Master of Science degree in Renewable Natural Resources with a focus on water and policy, Denise understands that watershed management is more about managing us, as human beings inextricably linked to nature. Her path has led her to projects that protect water and land and restore ecological and watershed health. Denise has worked in both public and private sectors, using her technical expertise to protect and restore aquatic habitat for endangered salmon, and overall watershed function in rural and urban settings. As a public servant in Canada and the United States, she has served at state and local government levels to develop policy and manage programs and projects with on the ground outcomes. As a consultant, Denise led engagement with First Nations to support their meaningful involvement in water resource planning initiatives. When she isn’t working with communities to protect and restore land, she enjoys hiking, writing, and being inspired by the stories of others. Denise recently contributed “When Water Isn’t Life: Environmental Justice Denied” to Signs of Water – Community Perspectives on Water, Responsibility and Hope, a collection of writings centred on the human relationship with water. Denise is excited to bring her experiences as a steward of water and land to the Women for Nature initiative.
Dr. Dianne SaxeDr. Dianne Saxe
Where science, the environment and the law meet, you'll find Dr. Dianne Saxe. Named Toronto's Environmental Lawyer of the Year 2011 by Best Lawyers, and one of the world's top 25 environmental lawyers 2008 by Best of the Best, Dianne is a prolific author whose publication "Ontario Protection Act Annotated" has become Ontario's standard environmental law reference. Dianne's keen understanding of environmental science combined with her thorough background in environmental laws and regulations make her an especially valuable resource for those who want to make the law of the land meet the needs of the land. In addition to her professional, academic and intellectual skills and successes, Dianne has also received accolades for her integrity and compassion. She is the head of her own law firm, does substantial pro bono work, lectures and still manages to find time to get out into the world that she loves and commune with nature in her kayak or on her bike. Dianne exemplifies the passion and conviction that demonstrate for our environment.
Dr. Nola-Kate SeymoarDr. Nola-Kate SeymoarDr. Nola-Kate Seymoar is Chair of the Vancouver City Planning Commission. A leader in the field of urban sustainability and international development, she is the retired President and CEO of the International Centre for Sustainable Cities (ICSC). Dr. Seymoar has three interdisciplinary degrees: a Ph.D. in Social Psychology, an MA in Community Development, and a BA in Recreation Administration. Her career has focused on communities and empowerment, spanning the public, private, not-for-profit and academic sectors. Dr. Seymoar has authored numerous articles as well as a book and a film on these topics. She has held senior executive positions with the Governments of Canada and Saskatchewan and positions with the Province of Alberta and the City of Edmonton. She received a "Global Citizen Award" in 1995, the Queen's Global Jubilee Medal in 2002 and Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012. Her work on various Boards includes Pacific Fisheries Monitoring and Compliance Panel, SFU’s Urban Studies Advisory Council and UBC’s Advisory Board to the Faculty of Land and Food Systems. With her expertise and commitment to nature, Nature Canada is honoured to have Dr. Seymoar involved with Women for Nature.
Where science, the environment and the law meet, you'll find Dr. Dianne Saxe. Named Toronto's Environmental Lawyer of the Year 2011 by Best Lawyers, and one of the world's top 25 environmental lawyers 2008 by Best of the Best, Dianne is a prolific author whose publication "Ontario Protection Act Annotated" has become Ontario's standard environmental law reference. Dianne's keen understanding of environmental science combined with her thorough background in environmental laws and regulations make her an especially valuable resource for those who want to make the law of the land meet the needs of the land. In addition to her professional, academic and intellectual skills and successes, Dianne has also received accolades for her integrity and compassion. She is the head of her own law firm, does substantial pro bono work, lectures and still manages to find time to get out into the world that she loves and commune with nature in her kayak or on her bike. Dianne exemplifies the passion and conviction that demonstrate for our environment.
Dr. Nola-Kate Seymoar is Chair of the Vancouver City Planning Commission. A leader in the field of urban sustainability and international development, she is the retired President and CEO of the International Centre for Sustainable Cities (ICSC). Dr. Seymoar has three interdisciplinary degrees: a Ph.D. in Social Psychology, an MA in Community Development, and a BA in Recreation Administration. Her career has focused on communities and empowerment, spanning the public, private, not-for-profit and academic sectors. Dr. Seymoar has authored numerous articles as well as a book and a film on these topics. She has held senior executive positions with the Governments of Canada and Saskatchewan and positions with the Province of Alberta and the City of Edmonton. She received a "Global Citizen Award" in 1995, the Queen's Global Jubilee Medal in 2002 and Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012. Her work on various Boards includes Pacific Fisheries Monitoring and Compliance Panel, SFU’s Urban Studies Advisory Council and UBC’s Advisory Board to the Faculty of Land and Food Systems. With her expertise and commitment to nature, Nature Canada is honoured to have Dr. Seymoar involved with Women for Nature.
Sandra SchwartzSandra Schwartz
As a founding member of Women for Nature, Sandra Schwartz, Vice President, Policy Advocacy at the Canadian Electricity Association (CEA), comes with a wealth of experience that spans both the private and public sectors. Sandra has worked in a wide range of public policy, strategic communications and political roles, where she has been a strong advocate for sound environmental policy and has championed progressive ideas for clean energy and tackling climate change. In her present position, Sandra has her finger on the pulse of one of the most important energy sectors in Canada. Previous to her work promoting a reliable and sustainable electricity sector in Canada, she served for many years as a policy advisor for federal Ministers of the Environment as well as leaders of the Official Opposition. She has also served as Director of Policy and Government Relations at the Canadian Wind Energy Association, and as a Program Director at the Canadian Institute of Child Health and for Pollution Probe. We welcome Sandra's expertise on the environment and her well-grounded understanding of the public and private influences on Canada's natural heritage.
Sandy SharkeySandy Sharkey
Sandy Sharkey is an Ottawa radio broadcaster and photographer with a deep-rooted love of nature. From hiking the 75 km 'West Coast Trail' and kayaking with orcas off the BC coast, to photographing beluga whales in the Churchill River and trekking over Sable Island sand dunes in search of spirited wild horses, Sandy is always searching for the next adventure. She is a strong believer in 'thinking globally, acting locally'. Through her photography and her voice in media, Sandy appreciates the opportunity to promote the green spaces, hiking trails and waterways that define Canadian communities from coast to coast. Sandy is committed to encouraging the youth of today to discover the natural world, and the beauty that is everywhere.
As a founding member of Women for Nature, Sandra Schwartz, Vice President, Policy Advocacy at the Canadian Electricity Association (CEA), comes with a wealth of experience that spans both the private and public sectors. Sandra has worked in a wide range of public policy, strategic communications and political roles, where she has been a strong advocate for sound environmental policy and has championed progressive ideas for clean energy and tackling climate change. In her present position, Sandra has her finger on the pulse of one of the most important energy sectors in Canada. Previous to her work promoting a reliable and sustainable electricity sector in Canada, she served for many years as a policy advisor for federal Ministers of the Environment as well as leaders of the Official Opposition. She has also served as Director of Policy and Government Relations at the Canadian Wind Energy Association, and as a Program Director at the Canadian Institute of Child Health and for Pollution Probe. We welcome Sandra's expertise on the environment and her well-grounded understanding of the public and private influences on Canada's natural heritage.
Sandy Sharkey is an Ottawa radio broadcaster and photographer with a deep-rooted love of nature. From hiking the 75 km 'West Coast Trail' and kayaking with orcas off the BC coast, to photographing beluga whales in the Churchill River and trekking over Sable Island sand dunes in search of spirited wild horses, Sandy is always searching for the next adventure. She is a strong believer in 'thinking globally, acting locally'. Through her photography and her voice in media, Sandy appreciates the opportunity to promote the green spaces, hiking trails and waterways that define Canadian communities from coast to coast. Sandy is committed to encouraging the youth of today to discover the natural world, and the beauty that is everywhere.
Anne-Marie Sheahan Anne-Marie Sheahan 
Ms. Anne-Marie Sheahan is the senior partner of Sheahan LLP, a law firm specialised in environmental law. She chose to practice in this area because of her passion for Canada’s natural environment, and it has motivated her for the last twenty years to advise clients on compliance with current and emerging regulation and on the restoration of contaminated sites.
Through her involvement with the Quebec Bar’s Permanent Committee on the Environment and the Canadian Bar Association’s Quebec and national divisions, she has participated in the development and improvement of environmental regulation.
She authored several articles and speaks on a large range of legal environmental issues, such as civil law protection of the environment, corporate environmental disclosure, the precautionary principle and ownership of greenhouse emission reduction units.
Henrietta Southam
Ms. Anne-Marie Sheahan is the senior partner of Sheahan LLP, a law firm specialised in environmental law. She chose to practice in this area because of her passion for Canada’s natural environment, and it has motivated her for the last twenty years to advise clients on compliance with current and emerging regulation and on the restoration of contaminated sites.
Through her involvement with the Quebec Bar’s Permanent Committee on the Environment and the Canadian Bar Association’s Quebec and national divisions, she has participated in the development and improvement of environmental regulation.
She authored several articles and speaks on a large range of legal environmental issues, such as civil law protection of the environment, corporate environmental disclosure, the precautionary principle and ownership of greenhouse emission reduction units.
Laren Stadelman Laren Stadelman 
Laren Stadelman is a Toronto based management consultant and who focuses specifically on not for profit and public sector clients. With over 25 years of experience, Laren’s areas of expertise include strategic planning, board governance and executive coaching. She holds an MBA from York University and is a Certified Management Consulting Fellow (FCMC).
An active volunteer, Laren has served on hospital, community and professional association boards. She is a nature enthusiast, avid hiker, and proud member of Women for Nature.
Nicole StefenelliNicole Stefenelli
Nicole Stefenelli is the founder and driving force behind Urban Impact. As Founder and CEO, Nicole is highly passionate about recycling and everything green and ensures that Urban Impact helps facilitate positive social and environmental change. In 2010, Nicole Ernst and Young recognized Nicole as CEO of the Year in the Cleantech category. In 2012, she was awarded the YWCA Women of Distinction Award in the Entrepreneur category. Nicole also plays a highly active role in her community; in 2015 under her leadership, Urban Impact donated $100,000 in free recycling services to community organizations. Nicole is an inspiration to people who work in the recycling industry, serving on industry panels, roundtables and committees virtually all have to do with promoting waste diversion in British Columbia. She serves on the Board of Directors of the Forum for Women Entrepreneurs, Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA BC), and Science World British Columbia.
Arlene StromArlene Strom
Arlene Strom is the Vice President, Sustainability & Communications at Suncor Energy Inc., a position she has held since March, 2013. She is responsible for Stakeholder and Aboriginal relations, reputation and brand, communications and issues management. She is also responsible for Suncor’s sustainability and outreach strategy, climate change strategy, environmental excellence support and for the management of the Suncor Energy Foundation. From August 2009 to March 2013, she was Vice President Communications & Stakeholder Relations and for six years prior to that she held various leadership positions within Suncor’s legal department. Prior to joining Suncor, Arlene worked for six years at Burnet Duckworth & Palmer LLP as a securities lawyer. She also taught securities law as a sessional at the University of Calgary law faculty for 3 years. Arlene holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from Trinity Western University and a Master of Arts in Political Science, as well as an LLB from the University of British Columbia. Currently, Arlene is a member of the board of directors of Calgary Municipal Land Corporation and is a community member of the Environment, Health, Safety & Sustainability committee of the University of Calgary’s Board of Governors. In recent years, Arlene has also served a 3 year term as a public member of the Association of Professional Engineers & Geoscientists of Alberta, and as a member of the Alberta Judicial Advisory Committee. Arlene Strom demonstrates everyday what it means to be a member of the Women for Nature. Nature Canada is proud to be working with such a strong and knowledgeable leader.
Laren Stadelman is a Toronto based management consultant and who focuses specifically on not for profit and public sector clients. With over 25 years of experience, Laren’s areas of expertise include strategic planning, board governance and executive coaching. She holds an MBA from York University and is a Certified Management Consulting Fellow (FCMC).
An active volunteer, Laren has served on hospital, community and professional association boards. She is a nature enthusiast, avid hiker, and proud member of Women for Nature.
Nicole Stefenelli is the founder and driving force behind Urban Impact. As Founder and CEO, Nicole is highly passionate about recycling and everything green and ensures that Urban Impact helps facilitate positive social and environmental change. In 2010, Nicole Ernst and Young recognized Nicole as CEO of the Year in the Cleantech category. In 2012, she was awarded the YWCA Women of Distinction Award in the Entrepreneur category. Nicole also plays a highly active role in her community; in 2015 under her leadership, Urban Impact donated $100,000 in free recycling services to community organizations. Nicole is an inspiration to people who work in the recycling industry, serving on industry panels, roundtables and committees virtually all have to do with promoting waste diversion in British Columbia. She serves on the Board of Directors of the Forum for Women Entrepreneurs, Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA BC), and Science World British Columbia.
Arlene Strom is the Vice President, Sustainability & Communications at Suncor Energy Inc., a position she has held since March, 2013. She is responsible for Stakeholder and Aboriginal relations, reputation and brand, communications and issues management. She is also responsible for Suncor’s sustainability and outreach strategy, climate change strategy, environmental excellence support and for the management of the Suncor Energy Foundation. From August 2009 to March 2013, she was Vice President Communications & Stakeholder Relations and for six years prior to that she held various leadership positions within Suncor’s legal department. Prior to joining Suncor, Arlene worked for six years at Burnet Duckworth & Palmer LLP as a securities lawyer. She also taught securities law as a sessional at the University of Calgary law faculty for 3 years. Arlene holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from Trinity Western University and a Master of Arts in Political Science, as well as an LLB from the University of British Columbia. Currently, Arlene is a member of the board of directors of Calgary Municipal Land Corporation and is a community member of the Environment, Health, Safety & Sustainability committee of the University of Calgary’s Board of Governors. In recent years, Arlene has also served a 3 year term as a public member of the Association of Professional Engineers & Geoscientists of Alberta, and as a member of the Alberta Judicial Advisory Committee. Arlene Strom demonstrates everyday what it means to be a member of the Women for Nature. Nature Canada is proud to be working with such a strong and knowledgeable leader.
Bridget StutchburyBridget Stutchbury
Bridget Stutchbury is a professor at York University, Toronto. She completed her M.Sc. at Queen’s University and her Ph.D. at Yale, and was a postdoctoral fellow at the Smithsonian Institution. Since the 1980s, she has followed songbirds to their wintering grounds in Latin America and back to their breeding grounds in North America to understand their behaviour, ecology and conservation. Her latest research uses “geolocators” to track the amazing migratory journeys of Wood Thrushes, Purple Martins and Red-eyed Vireos. She shares her knowledge and expertise on several scientific advisory committees. In addition to her list of scientific achievements, she is also a published author of Silence of the Songbirds (2007 finalist for the Governor General’s Award) and The Bird Detective (April 2010). Bridget is a wonderful role model, clearly demonstrating her passion for birds and all nature in a multitude of ways including becoming involved as a founding member of Women for Nature.
Susan TannerSusan Tanner
Susan Tanner has been a stalwart for social justice and equality rights in Canada throughout her entire career. She has been committed to building a better and more sustainable society; through her work as founding chairperson of the Women's Legal Education and Action Fund (LEAF), her past leadership at Friends of the Earth (receiving a UN Environmental prize for its work on ozone depletion), her involvement with the Canadian Environmental Law Association and most recently, as the former Executive Director of the Canadian Environmental Network. In 2009, Susan was honored as a United Nations Association of Canada "Championne" for her work on human rights and the environment. Susan continues to be actively involved with organizations such as MATCH International, Canadian Association for the Club of Rome and Learning for a Sustainable Future (LSF). We are honoured to count Susan among our founding members of Women for Nature.
Sunshine Tenasco
Bridget Stutchbury is a professor at York University, Toronto. She completed her M.Sc. at Queen’s University and her Ph.D. at Yale, and was a postdoctoral fellow at the Smithsonian Institution. Since the 1980s, she has followed songbirds to their wintering grounds in Latin America and back to their breeding grounds in North America to understand their behaviour, ecology and conservation. Her latest research uses “geolocators” to track the amazing migratory journeys of Wood Thrushes, Purple Martins and Red-eyed Vireos. She shares her knowledge and expertise on several scientific advisory committees. In addition to her list of scientific achievements, she is also a published author of Silence of the Songbirds (2007 finalist for the Governor General’s Award) and The Bird Detective (April 2010). Bridget is a wonderful role model, clearly demonstrating her passion for birds and all nature in a multitude of ways including becoming involved as a founding member of Women for Nature.
Susan Tanner has been a stalwart for social justice and equality rights in Canada throughout her entire career. She has been committed to building a better and more sustainable society; through her work as founding chairperson of the Women's Legal Education and Action Fund (LEAF), her past leadership at Friends of the Earth (receiving a UN Environmental prize for its work on ozone depletion), her involvement with the Canadian Environmental Law Association and most recently, as the former Executive Director of the Canadian Environmental Network. In 2009, Susan was honored as a United Nations Association of Canada "Championne" for her work on human rights and the environment. Susan continues to be actively involved with organizations such as MATCH International, Canadian Association for the Club of Rome and Learning for a Sustainable Future (LSF). We are honoured to count Susan among our founding members of Women for Nature.
Vanessa and Dagmar Timmer Vanessa and Dagmar Timmer 
Dagmar and Vanessa Timmer lead One Earth, a Vancouver-based “think and do tank” focused on sustainable consumption and production across scales, which they launched with three other co-founders in 2006. One Earth is curating the New Economies theme of Cities for People, initiated by The J. W. McConnell Family Foundation. It is a Canada-wide experiment in advancing a movement to create more resilient and livable cities through innovation networks. Dagmar and Vanessa write, speak and teach on social change, leadership, systems thinking and sustainability. The sisters also co-host the award-winning Metro Vancouver television show, The Sustainable Region. Active in the environmental movement since they were teenagers, they founded the Environmental Youth Alliance in 1991. Vanessa completed a Doctorate in environmental studies with degrees from Queen’s University, Oxford University and UBC. She is an Associate at Harvard University’s Sustainability Science program on innovation for sustainable development and a recipient of Business in Vancouver's Top 40 under 40 award. Dagmar completed a Masters in Political Science. She advanced forest conservation at the International Union for the Conservation of Nature in Geneva and then coordinated a network of tropical rainforest-agriculture research sites with the World Agroforestry Center in Nairobi. Nature Canada is delighted to have this dynamic duo of sisters, who are working so tirelessly for our sustainable future, involved with the Women for Nature Initiative.
Jennifer Toby Dr. Lynn TomkinsDr. Lynn Tomkins
Dr. Lynn Tomkins runs a private dental practice in Toronto, teaches at the University of Toronto's Faculty of Dentistry and is a former President of the Ontario Dental Association. She has won numerous awards for teaching from the Toronto Central Dental Society, the Royal College of Dental Surgeons in Ontario and the University of Toronto. She has also been named on the list of Canada's Top 100 Women for her leadership efforts. A member of Nature Canada since 1997, Dr. Tomkins has joined Women for Nature because of her passion for the National Parks of Canada. Lynn is a natural ambassador to promote the importance of Canada's magnificent wilderness having visited over twenty eight national parks and can share her experiences to inspire others to connect with nature.
Dagmar and Vanessa Timmer lead One Earth, a Vancouver-based “think and do tank” focused on sustainable consumption and production across scales, which they launched with three other co-founders in 2006. One Earth is curating the New Economies theme of Cities for People, initiated by The J. W. McConnell Family Foundation. It is a Canada-wide experiment in advancing a movement to create more resilient and livable cities through innovation networks. Dagmar and Vanessa write, speak and teach on social change, leadership, systems thinking and sustainability. The sisters also co-host the award-winning Metro Vancouver television show, The Sustainable Region. Active in the environmental movement since they were teenagers, they founded the Environmental Youth Alliance in 1991. Vanessa completed a Doctorate in environmental studies with degrees from Queen’s University, Oxford University and UBC. She is an Associate at Harvard University’s Sustainability Science program on innovation for sustainable development and a recipient of Business in Vancouver's Top 40 under 40 award. Dagmar completed a Masters in Political Science. She advanced forest conservation at the International Union for the Conservation of Nature in Geneva and then coordinated a network of tropical rainforest-agriculture research sites with the World Agroforestry Center in Nairobi. Nature Canada is delighted to have this dynamic duo of sisters, who are working so tirelessly for our sustainable future, involved with the Women for Nature Initiative.
Dr. Lynn Tomkins runs a private dental practice in Toronto, teaches at the University of Toronto's Faculty of Dentistry and is a former President of the Ontario Dental Association. She has won numerous awards for teaching from the Toronto Central Dental Society, the Royal College of Dental Surgeons in Ontario and the University of Toronto. She has also been named on the list of Canada's Top 100 Women for her leadership efforts. A member of Nature Canada since 1997, Dr. Tomkins has joined Women for Nature because of her passion for the National Parks of Canada. Lynn is a natural ambassador to promote the importance of Canada's magnificent wilderness having visited over twenty eight national parks and can share her experiences to inspire others to connect with nature.
Michelle ValbergMichelle Valberg
Michelle Valberg is an award-winning Canadian photographer, renowned for her soulful portraiture and stunning landscapes. She possesses a magical combination of artistic creativity, entrepreneurial spirit and community commitment with a diverse career and excellent reputation. Her work has appeared in numerous magazines and has been the subject of her self-published books—including , her children's book , and her most recent release, . Michelle is a wonderful example of our Women for Nature; her love of nature shines throughout her work and life. Nature Canada applauds her many efforts to showcase the splendour of our natural world to encourage Canadians to connect with nature.
Supriya VermaSupriya Verma
Supriya Verma WELL AP is an award-winning corporate executive, global sustainability advocate, and social entrepreneur. She serves as the Chief Sustainability Officer at Belnor Engineering Inc., a global construction firm focused on sustainable building solutions. Supriya is also the founder of The SustainabilityX® Magazine, which bridges the environment and economy. Supriya has been recognized globally, including being named one of Canada’s Top 30 Under 30 in Sustainability Leadership in 2019 and receiving McMaster University’s Alumni Arch Award in 2021. She was honored as one of The SustainabilityX® Magazine’s Global 50 Women in Sustainability Awards™ in 2022 and named a Peak Emerging Leader in 2024, celebrating her contributions to sustainability and women’s leadership.
Michelle Valberg is an award-winning Canadian photographer, renowned for her soulful portraiture and stunning landscapes. She possesses a magical combination of artistic creativity, entrepreneurial spirit and community commitment with a diverse career and excellent reputation. Her work has appeared in numerous magazines and has been the subject of her self-published books—including , her children's book , and her most recent release, . Michelle is a wonderful example of our Women for Nature; her love of nature shines throughout her work and life. Nature Canada applauds her many efforts to showcase the splendour of our natural world to encourage Canadians to connect with nature.
Supriya Verma WELL AP is an award-winning corporate executive, global sustainability advocate, and social entrepreneur. She serves as the Chief Sustainability Officer at Belnor Engineering Inc., a global construction firm focused on sustainable building solutions. Supriya is also the founder of The SustainabilityX® Magazine, which bridges the environment and economy. Supriya has been recognized globally, including being named one of Canada’s Top 30 Under 30 in Sustainability Leadership in 2019 and receiving McMaster University’s Alumni Arch Award in 2021. She was honored as one of The SustainabilityX® Magazine’s Global 50 Women in Sustainability Awards™ in 2022 and named a Peak Emerging Leader in 2024, celebrating her contributions to sustainability and women’s leadership.
Sharolyn Mathieu VetteseSharolyn Mathieu Vett ese
As a long time environmentalist, gardener and hiker, Sharolyn Vettese has always cared deeply about nature. The Toronto based mother of three became increasing concerned about climate change, so she decided to take matters into her own hands. Along with her father and business partner, she invented something extraordinary. Today their company, Wind Simplicity manufactures and installs bird and bat friendly small wind turbines. Sharolyn's company aims to put nature first. "We make working with nature a simple solution and use green principles in all aspects of our work", she says. As a founding member of Nature Canada's Women for Nature, Sharolyn's generosity is making a tremendous impact.
As a long time environmentalist, gardener and hiker, Sharolyn Vettese has always cared deeply about nature. The Toronto based mother of three became increasing concerned about climate change, so she decided to take matters into her own hands. Along with her father and business partner, she invented something extraordinary. Today their company, Wind Simplicity manufactures and installs bird and bat friendly small wind turbines. Sharolyn's company aims to put nature first. "We make working with nature a simple solution and use green principles in all aspects of our work", she says. As a founding member of Nature Canada's Women for Nature, Sharolyn's generosity is making a tremendous impact.
Kirsten ViceKirsten Vice
Kirsten Vice is Vice President of Sustainable Manufacturing & Canadian Operations for the National Council for Air and Stream Improvement. NCASI’s objective as a non-profit research organization is to serve the forest products industry as a centre of excellence for providing technical information and scientific research needed to achieve the industry’s environmental sustainability goals.
Over her career to date Kirsten has worked in various roles within industry, government, consulting, and environmental research, in a variety of locations across Canada, the United States, and Finland, largely in the development and effective implementation of environmental regulation. These experiences have given her an immense appreciation of the role played by objective science in the development of optimal sustainability solutions. Her first experiences in nature were through camping, having spent a dozen summers as a camper and in senior leadership roles at Doe Lake, Ontario’s Girl Guide Camp, along with over 20 years as a Guide leader working with children to enhance their appreciation of nature and self-reliance.
Her love of forests and her pleasure in working with wood and paper led her to develop a career oriented towards helping resolve some of the most complex sustainability challenges faced by the forest products sector. Kirsten launched the Canadian Operations of NCASI in 2002, and since that time she has worked with her team to grow the Canadian branch of the organization to provide environment and forestry research to over half the Canadian forest industry. Kirsten earned her B.A.Sc. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Toronto and a Master’s in Pulp and Paper Management and Process Control from the Helsinki University of Technology.
Connie Vitello Connie Vitello
Connie Vitello is Actual Media’s environment expert. She is an award-winning editor and writer with 20+ years of experience who provides in-depth coverage of interesting issues and innovative ideas as she creates and curates content for EnvironmentJournal.ca. Connie is also integral in the execution of the following events: the Brownie Awards, a celebration of outstanding brownfield projects and champions; the Excess Soils Symposiums, which focus on resource recovery and optimal soil management; and webinars on a variety of timely environmental topics. In her volunteer work, Connie advocates for urban greening and innovative projects that support the intersection of education and ecological stewardship.
Susie Washington Smyth Susie Washington Smyth 
Susie Washington Smyth has over 40 years experience with environmental, conservation planning and resource management issues. As President of Western Environmental and Social Trends Inc, she provided clients with strategic advice and options regarding government policy/legislation, project assessment, conservation, and issue management. Susie led the national public consultation/ review of the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act and co-chaired the multi-stakeholder group which developed the initial regulations for the Act. At the provincial level, she designed and started the Clean Air Strategy for Alberta. Susie is a past Program Manager at The Banff Centre School of Management and also served as Environmental Education Manager for Alberta Environment. She has volunteered as a Director for several conservation groups including Island Trust Fund, Nature Conservancy of Canada, and Environmental Law Centre of Alberta. She also participated on the Canadian Chamber of Commerce Task Force on Environment and Economy and the Canadian Committee for the UNESCO Programme on Man and the Environment. She is also active locally having organized the Marine Coalition to intervene in the federal review of the Georgia Strait Crossing. Susie is passionate and committed to helping Nature Canada gain greater protection for the Gulf Islands and surrounding marine area.
Kirsten Vice is Vice President of Sustainable Manufacturing & Canadian Operations for the National Council for Air and Stream Improvement. NCASI’s objective as a non-profit research organization is to serve the forest products industry as a centre of excellence for providing technical information and scientific research needed to achieve the industry’s environmental sustainability goals.
Over her career to date Kirsten has worked in various roles within industry, government, consulting, and environmental research, in a variety of locations across Canada, the United States, and Finland, largely in the development and effective implementation of environmental regulation. These experiences have given her an immense appreciation of the role played by objective science in the development of optimal sustainability solutions. Her first experiences in nature were through camping, having spent a dozen summers as a camper and in senior leadership roles at Doe Lake, Ontario’s Girl Guide Camp, along with over 20 years as a Guide leader working with children to enhance their appreciation of nature and self-reliance.
Her love of forests and her pleasure in working with wood and paper led her to develop a career oriented towards helping resolve some of the most complex sustainability challenges faced by the forest products sector. Kirsten launched the Canadian Operations of NCASI in 2002, and since that time she has worked with her team to grow the Canadian branch of the organization to provide environment and forestry research to over half the Canadian forest industry. Kirsten earned her B.A.Sc. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Toronto and a Master’s in Pulp and Paper Management and Process Control from the Helsinki University of Technology.
Connie Vitello is Actual Media’s environment expert. She is an award-winning editor and writer with 20+ years of experience who provides in-depth coverage of interesting issues and innovative ideas as she creates and curates content for EnvironmentJournal.ca. Connie is also integral in the execution of the following events: the Brownie Awards, a celebration of outstanding brownfield projects and champions; the Excess Soils Symposiums, which focus on resource recovery and optimal soil management; and webinars on a variety of timely environmental topics. In her volunteer work, Connie advocates for urban greening and innovative projects that support the intersection of education and ecological stewardship.
Susie Washington Smyth has over 40 years experience with environmental, conservation planning and resource management issues. As President of Western Environmental and Social Trends Inc, she provided clients with strategic advice and options regarding government policy/legislation, project assessment, conservation, and issue management. Susie led the national public consultation/ review of the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act and co-chaired the multi-stakeholder group which developed the initial regulations for the Act. At the provincial level, she designed and started the Clean Air Strategy for Alberta. Susie is a past Program Manager at The Banff Centre School of Management and also served as Environmental Education Manager for Alberta Environment. She has volunteered as a Director for several conservation groups including Island Trust Fund, Nature Conservancy of Canada, and Environmental Law Centre of Alberta. She also participated on the Canadian Chamber of Commerce Task Force on Environment and Economy and the Canadian Committee for the UNESCO Programme on Man and the Environment. She is also active locally having organized the Marine Coalition to intervene in the federal review of the Georgia Strait Crossing. Susie is passionate and committed to helping Nature Canada gain greater protection for the Gulf Islands and surrounding marine area.
Karen Clarke Whistler Karen Clarke Whistler 
Since 2008, Karen Clarke-Whistler has been the Chief Environment Officer of TD Bank Group. In this role, Karen develops TD’s environmental strategy, which works to embed an environmental perspective throughout the bank’s business operations. Under her leadership, TD became the first North American-based bank to be carbon neutral. Karen also led the development and launch of TD Forests, which helps protect critical forest habitat, works to grow urban forests and green spaces, and promotes sustainable forestry. She is an environmental scientist who is widely recognized as a thought leader in environmental business matters. Prior to joining TD, Karen spent more than 15 years working as an environmental consultant to a diverse base of clients around the globe. She was named one of Canada's Clean50 in 2012 and a Clean16 leader in 2014. Karen advises or serves on a number of boards, including those of the Boreal Leadership Council, the Centre for Excellence in Mining innovation, Sustainability CoLab, and the Network of Centres of Excellence. She holds a master’s degree in land resource science from the University of Guelph and a bachelor’s degree in ecology from the University of Toronto. Karen brings extensive knowledge and a collaborative partnership approach to Women for Nature with a strong belief in mentorship for the next generation of environmental leaders.
Since 2008, Karen Clarke-Whistler has been the Chief Environment Officer of TD Bank Group. In this role, Karen develops TD’s environmental strategy, which works to embed an environmental perspective throughout the bank’s business operations. Under her leadership, TD became the first North American-based bank to be carbon neutral. Karen also led the development and launch of TD Forests, which helps protect critical forest habitat, works to grow urban forests and green spaces, and promotes sustainable forestry. She is an environmental scientist who is widely recognized as a thought leader in environmental business matters. Prior to joining TD, Karen spent more than 15 years working as an environmental consultant to a diverse base of clients around the globe. She was named one of Canada's Clean50 in 2012 and a Clean16 leader in 2014. Karen advises or serves on a number of boards, including those of the Boreal Leadership Council, the Centre for Excellence in Mining innovation, Sustainability CoLab, and the Network of Centres of Excellence. She holds a master’s degree in land resource science from the University of Guelph and a bachelor’s degree in ecology from the University of Toronto. Karen brings extensive knowledge and a collaborative partnership approach to Women for Nature with a strong belief in mentorship for the next generation of environmental leaders.
Alice Irene Whittaker-Cumming Dr. Pamela WrightDr. Pamela Wright
Dr. Pam Wright began her undergraduate education in biology and outdoor recreation management at Lakehead University. In the following years she completed both her M.Sc. and Ph.D. degrees in natural resource management at the Ohio State University - clearly demonstrating her passion for sustainability. Dr. Wright's expertise in conservation management and the impacts of tourism and recreation on the surrounding natural environment have made her a clear candidate for Nature Canada's Women for Nature initiative. She has also demonstrated leadership and influence on the international scene, through her work domestically, in Canada, as well as throughout the US, Central and South America, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East. Shining examples of this are her work as the Vice-Chair of the Panel on Ecological Integrity of Canada's National Parks and with the BC Protected Areas Research Forum, an organization dedicated to strengthening the linkages between research and protected areas planning and management. Pam teaches in the Ecosystem Science and Management program at the University of Northern British Columbia.
Dr. Pam Wright began her undergraduate education in biology and outdoor recreation management at Lakehead University. In the following years she completed both her M.Sc. and Ph.D. degrees in natural resource management at the Ohio State University - clearly demonstrating her passion for sustainability. Dr. Wright's expertise in conservation management and the impacts of tourism and recreation on the surrounding natural environment have made her a clear candidate for Nature Canada's Women for Nature initiative. She has also demonstrated leadership and influence on the international scene, through her work domestically, in Canada, as well as throughout the US, Central and South America, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East. Shining examples of this are her work as the Vice-Chair of the Panel on Ecological Integrity of Canada's National Parks and with the BC Protected Areas Research Forum, an organization dedicated to strengthening the linkages between research and protected areas planning and management. Pam teaches in the Ecosystem Science and Management program at the University of Northern British Columbia.
Genevieve Young Genevieve Young Genevieve Young is Global Public Affairs’ Chief Operating Officer and Senior Vice President. At Global, she manages a range of clients requiring strategic counsel primarily for transactional initiatives such as acquisitions, corporate and project financing, and smoothing regulatory impediments. Genevieve advances issues with a thorough understanding of a client’s business objectives and the operational, marketing and financial implications that intersect with the public sector. In addition to her client work she works closely on a range of corporate initiatives including the day-to-day operations of all of Global’s activities with direct responsibility for senior management and all corporate functions. She is responsible for Global’s international partnerships and has a broad senior-level corporate network across Canada and in the United States. Prior to joining Global in 2000, Genevieve served the Secretary of State (Asia-Pacific) and the Senate of Canada, providing legislative and political counsel on diverse public policy issues with an emphasis on Western Canadian policy files and business outreach. Genevieve holds a Bachelor of Arts in Canadian Politics and an MBA from Queen’s University, Smith School of Business. She is an active explorer and has travelled extensively in Canada, the Caribbean, Asia, Europe and North Africa. Her interests in the outdoors and cultural pursuits are actively being transferred to her two young children.
Laura ZizzoLaura Zizzo
Laura Zizzo has taken her passion for environmental sustainability and made it her life's work. As a partner in one of Canada's first law firms dedicated to climate law, Laura is on the ground floor with other policy makers in testing laws and policies that relate to climate change. She is often asked to speak on issues related to climate change and is a volunteer presenter for The Climate Project – Canada. But her interest in the environment is not limited to Canada. She is a member of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature committee on Environmental law, and sits on the Executive of the Environmental Law section of the Ontario Bar Association. Early in her career, she worked with the Ontario Ministry of Finance and the
Hamilton Region Conservation Authority. Laura is also co-founder of the Climate Change Lawyers Network, whose mandate is to provide a forum for lawyers and others interested in
the legal challenges related to climate change. Laura's professional experience and personal passions give her both the expertise and the drive to make a difference as a founding member, .
Genevieve Young is Global Public Affairs’ Chief Operating Officer and Senior Vice President. At Global, she manages a range of clients requiring strategic counsel primarily for transactional initiatives such as acquisitions, corporate and project financing, and smoothing regulatory impediments. Genevieve advances issues with a thorough understanding of a client’s business objectives and the operational, marketing and financial implications that intersect with the public sector. In addition to her client work she works closely on a range of corporate initiatives including the day-to-day operations of all of Global’s activities with direct responsibility for senior management and all corporate functions. She is responsible for Global’s international partnerships and has a broad senior-level corporate network across Canada and in the United States. Prior to joining Global in 2000, Genevieve served the Secretary of State (Asia-Pacific) and the Senate of Canada, providing legislative and political counsel on diverse public policy issues with an emphasis on Western Canadian policy files and business outreach. Genevieve holds a Bachelor of Arts in Canadian Politics and an MBA from Queen’s University, Smith School of Business. She is an active explorer and has travelled extensively in Canada, the Caribbean, Asia, Europe and North Africa. Her interests in the outdoors and cultural pursuits are actively being transferred to her two young children.
Laura Zizzo has taken her passion for environmental sustainability and made it her life's work. As a partner in one of Canada's first law firms dedicated to climate law, Laura is on the ground floor with other policy makers in testing laws and policies that relate to climate change. She is often asked to speak on issues related to climate change and is a volunteer presenter for The Climate Project – Canada. But her interest in the environment is not limited to Canada. She is a member of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature committee on Environmental law, and sits on the Executive of the Environmental Law section of the Ontario Bar Association. Early in her career, she worked with the Ontario Ministry of Finance and the
Hamilton Region Conservation Authority. Laura is also co-founder of the Climate Change Lawyers Network, whose mandate is to provide a forum for lawyers and others interested in
the legal challenges related to climate change. Laura's professional experience and personal passions give her both the expertise and the drive to make a difference as a founding member, .