WATER FIRST EDUCATION & TRAINING - Key Persons
Job Titles:
- Indigenous Staff Member
- Member of Beausoleil First Nation
- School Engagement Program Manager
Adrianna Bilinski, member of Beausoleil First Nation, is the Program Manager of Indigenous School Engagement with Water First. As a certified teacher working with Water First she has visited 25 different community schools across 6 different provinces. Her passion for teaching helps her to support the work of building water science-related capacity in partner communities beginning with the youth and extending beyond when required.
Indigenous staff member Adrianna Bilinski explains, "In my first Lodge I was gifted the sweetgrass and that was paramount to my sense of belonging as an Anishinaabe Kwe. Working with Water First has had the same effect. Sweetgrass is a sacred medicine that is always braided together. It is both empowering and gratifying to see this idea reflected in the image of the strands, and reflected in the thoughts and actions of those within the organization."
Job Titles:
- Project Manager / Instructor, Environmental Water
Aisha has extensive experience in environmental quality monitoring. Her M.Sc. research at Trent University focused on water quality and biological communities in stormwater management ponds in Southern Ontario. Before joining the Water First team, she was a Water Scientist with the Severn Sound Environmental Association where she worked to increase understanding of water quality conditions and impacts of watershed stressors in the Severn Sound area, Georgian Bay, as well as develop citizen science programs to engage the public. Aisha is excited to bring her passion for water science to First Nation communities and learn from their experiences as stewards of the land and water.
Job Titles:
- Media Contact
- Director of Development & Communications
Ami has over 19 years experience and a proven track record in fundraising, resource development and marketing. She enjoys nurturing relationships with Water First donors and developing customized strategies to meet their needs. Along with sharing Water First's stories and increasing awareness of our work.
Andrew Binns, Ph.D., P.Eng., is an Associate Professor of Water Resources Engineering in the School of Engineering at the University of Guelph. Andrew completed his Bachelor's, Master's and Ph.D. in Civil Engineering at Queen's University. Previously, he worked as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Western Ontario and as a postdoctoral fellow in the Department of Integrative Biology at the University of Guelph. His research is related to understanding hydraulic and hydrologic processes and investigating the effect of natural and anthropogenic impacts on these processes, with emphasis on physical laboratory experimentation, numerical modelling and field-based investigations. His current research focuses on urban flooding and the mitigation technologies and approaches, investigation of fluvial morphodynamic process in rivers and streams, and the fate and transport of contaminants in the environment. Andrew is currently an Associate Editor for the Journal of Flood Risk Management. He is passionate about contributing towards the sustainability of water resources and the environment.
As the Stewardship Coordinator, Ashley manages donor appreciation and background data entry at Water First. With a decade of administrative experience and more than five years with the organization, Ashley ensures donors feel valued, bolstering our mission's collaboration with Indigenous communities. Ashley's commitment to cultivating significant relationships highlights the crucial function of donor stewardship in effecting positive transformation.
Beth graduated from the University of Windsor with a degree in Environmental Studies and a concentration in Resource Management. Her schooling, along with her previous work experience in social media earned Beth a spot on both the Environmental Water and Communications teams. She's excited to be working in two fields she's passionate about, and is ready to learn as much as possible from her colleagues and from the communities she works with.
Bob Rae is a former Premier of Ontario and a former interim leader of the Liberal Party of Canada. He now advocates for First Nations on a number of issues, including the right to safe drinking water.
With over 20 years of marketing and communications experience, Brenda has successfully developed online marketing campaigns and strategies for a variety of non-profits. She shares her vast experience to help Water First build effective public communications initiatives.
Job Titles:
- Project Coordinator
- Technical Trainer
Brooke graduated from Trent University with a degree in Environmental and Earth Sciences, during this time she worked at the Peterborough Water Treatment Plant growing her interest and knowledge in clean drinking water. Before coming to Water First, Brooke worked at Georgian Bay Forever conducting research and education on microplastics in freshwater ecosystems, working towards legislative change to stop microfibre pollution at the source- our washing machines. At Water First, Brooke is excited to work alongside First Nations communities who share a love for the aquatic environment. Brooke is lucky to call the Saugeen Bruce Peninsula home.
Job Titles:
- Technical Instructional Designer
Cory's M.Sc. research at the University of Waterloo helped develop a water monitoring program for a vast floodplain in Northern Alberta to address concerns over industrial expansion that were expressed by local Indigenous communities. Cory has also previously worked alongside a team of knowledge producers from First Nations communities, government, and universities to inform conservation of water resources in the Northwest Territories. At Water First, Cory looks forward to meaningful engagement with Indigenous communities while sharing her love for water science and ecology.
Job Titles:
- Senior Manager
- Senior Manager, Human Resources
Dawnie is an HR professional with over 20 years of experience ranging from various non-profit charities such as children's mental health, youth criminal justice, health charities and sustainable communities. Earlier experiences also include working with global conglomerates to start-up tech firms. With a diverse array of industry experience, Dawnie blends both strategic and grassroots HR practice that enables and supports the mission, vision and people of the organization.
Job Titles:
- Senior Manager, School Water
With over a decade of teaching experience, Dillon has collaborated with schools and community members in FNMI communities across Canada to deliver STEM-based science workshops and complete watershed restoration & conservation projects. He has significant experience designing and delivering in-class and land-based educational programs at the Primary, Junior, Intermediate and Senior divisions. Dillon has been involved with the delivery/management of programs in over 85 Indigenous communities.
Job Titles:
- Internship Technical Trainer & Coordinator
- Member of Sagamok Anishnawbek First Nation
Elijah is a proud member of Sagamok Anishnawbek First Nation, dedicated to helping Indigenous individuals gain the necessary skills for success. As a former Water First Intern who has obtained experience as a drinking water operator, I am excited to pass on my knowledge to the new interns. My role as Internship Trainer is teaching & providing the necessary knowledge/skills for the interns to succeed successfully.
Job Titles:
- Senior Manager, Instructional Design & Delivery
Erin has joined Water First after over 10 years of working in the university sector in the UK as an Associate Professor/Senior Lecturer. She brings experience and qualifications in designing, developing, and delivering hands-on, experiential, and applied skills-based educational programs for adult learners. Erin's instructional design aims to meet learners wherever they are in their knowledge and ability level to help them successfully reach their learning goals. She holds a Ph.D. along with a PGCAP teaching qualification. Erin is also an active researcher and regularly publishes peer-reviewed outputs.
Gary (Giniw - Golden Eagle) is the Founder of 4 Directions Conservation Consulting Services and a Conservation Ecologist & Indigenous Engagement/Placemaking Specialist from Curve Lake First Nation, Ontario.
Gary often acts as the bridge between the Indigenous Community and the western style of governance, having successfully collaborated with many stakeholder groups, institutes, government agencies, Indigenous communities, and political organizations to address environmental concerns and identify practical solutions.
Job Titles:
- Programs Communications Specialist
Greg has worked with brands in an array of sectors across Canada and Australia in graphic design, interactive design, and film and video. He is excited to be using his passion for videography to share the wonderful work of the Water First team.
Job Titles:
- Outreach Instructor, School Water
Hannah brings a passion for interactive, memory-making STEM opportunities for youth and a love for water to her role as an Outreach Instructor with Water First. She joins the team after years of experience teaching and managing educational programs within 9 communities of the Cree Nation, Eeyou Istchee. When Hannah isn't on the road teaching, you'll find her exploring in nature or curled up with a good book.
Job Titles:
- Co - Founder of Blundstone Canada
A seasoned entrepreneur with 30 plus years in building brands and sales. Ian is co-founder of Blundstone Canada and Australian Boot Company. Starting with one store in 1994, Blundstone's distribution has grown to over 1000 retail locations across Canada.
Job Titles:
- Instructor
- Project Manager
Isabel's background blends science with education and outreach. Her previous work focused on developing and supporting community-based water monitoring programs for recreational waters across Canada, and sharing the results of this work to support water literacy. She is also an experienced outdoor educator, working as a SCUBA diving instructor and delivering experiential marine biology courses. With Water First, she's excited to share her experience in community-based water monitoring, and continue learning from and with communities.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Piikani Nation
- Technical Instructional Designer
Jacey, a member of the Piikani Nation in Southern Alberta, first began her educational journey at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology. Following her graduation from the Chemical Engineering Technology program, she pursued her Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering at Lakehead University, from which she graduated in the Spring of 2022. Proud of her identity as an Indigenous woman in engineering, Jacey is excited to share her passion for STEM with other Indigenous youth and play a part in training and providing resources for current and future generations of water protectors.
Job Titles:
- Community Engagement and Fundraising Coordinator
- Red River Métis Artist
Jacob Vickery is a Red River Métis artist and musician who brings creativity and a positive attitude to all of his endeavors. He holds a BA in Literature from Laurentian University and recently completed an MA in Canadian and Indigenous studies at Trent University, contributing to award winning policy work in 2021 and 2022. Jacob recently served as Treasurer of his local Métis community council in the Peterborough & Wapiti district.
Jana Levison, Ph.D., P.Eng. holds a bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering (environmental option) and a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering (focus: anthropogenic impacts on fractured bedrock aquifers) from Queen's University. She is an Associate Professor in the School of Engineering (Water Resources Engineering and Morwick G360 Groundwater Research Institute) at the University of Guelph. She is also the inaugural Doody Family Chair for Women in Engineering (2022-2027). Previously she was a postdoctoral fellow at the Université du Québec à Montréal, working on multidisciplinary ecohydrological modelling related to climate change. In 2009-2010, she led engineering and public policy initiatives as the Junior Fellow and Acting Executive Director of the Ontario Centre for Engineering and Public Policy at Professional Engineers Ontario. She has also worked on the Drinking Water Source Protection team at the Cataraqui Region Conservation Authority. Dr. Levison was an Associate Editor for Hydrogeology Journal from 2015 to 2019. In 2020, Dr. Levison received the IAH-CNC Early Career Hydrogeologist Award. At the University of Guelph, Dr. Levison is conducting novel research related to agricultural and climate change impacts on groundwater quality and quantity. Other areas of research interest include source water protection, appropriate potable water approaches for marginalized communities, and fostering engineering and technological input into public discourse.
Job Titles:
- Office and Community Engagement Coordinator
Jenny is one of the first happy people you see when you come into the office. When she isn't in the office, you can find her hiking local trails, camping or canoeing. She jumped at the opportunity to work at Water First and takes pride in being part of an organization that is taking action with the water crisis.
Job Titles:
- Senior Manager, Development
Jessica holds her Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Geography and has been working in the charitable sector as a Certified Fundraising Professional for over two decades. Over this time she has worked closely with large corporations, small businesses, family foundations and individuals and families. She says the best part of her role with Water First is seeing people of all kinds have a real impact on a critically important cause.
Job Titles:
- Executive Director
- Founder
- Executive Director and Founder of Water First Education
John Millar is the Executive Director and Founder of Water First Education and Training Inc. His 22 years in the non-profit field has included extensive experience in First Nations engagement, non-profit management, and collaboration with dozens of Indigenous communities. He has worked for, and partnered with, a variety of non-profit organizations focusing on drinking water systems, environmental projects, education, and training.
Job Titles:
- Instructor
- Project Manager
Julia brings a unique perspective to the field of water science, blending her experience in land and water monitoring programs with expertise in 3D designing concepts. Holding a Bachelor's degree in Applied Water Science from the University of Wilfrid Laurier, Julia is committed to leveraging her diverse skill set to address complex challenges in the field. Before joining Water First, she served as the Environment Technician with Six Nations of the Grand River, where she developed a deep understanding of environmental issues and community needs.
Job Titles:
- School Engagement Coordinator
Juliana is an Ontario certified teacher in the Primary and Junior divisions, and has a background in biology and chemistry from Lakehead University. Juliana is happy to be able to contribute her love for teaching and commitment to environmental stewardship by empowering young minds to become advocates for water conservation and sustainability.
Karen Green brings more than 20 years of experience in creative marketing and communications to Water First. She studied Creative Writing at York University and has focused on the nonprofit sector for much of her career. Karen is happy to be able to contribute to the important and innovative work that Water First is doing.
Job Titles:
- Project Coordinator
- Technical Trainer
- Environmental Scientist
Kayla Morales is an environmental scientist who has completed research in multiple labs focusing on urban hydrology. She graduated with a Master's degree from Toronto Metropolitan University in Environmental Sciences and Management and from McMaster University with a Bachelor's degree in Geography and Environmental Sciences, minoring in GIS. Kayla has experience working with several universities, municipalities, and non-profit organizations. At Water First, Kayla is excited to share her passion for water sciences while making meaningful connections and learning from our Indigenous partners.
Job Titles:
- Internship Development Manager
Keegan Smith (MSc) has worked on water research projects around Canada, including Indigenous community-based monitoring projects in Nunavut, Ontario, Quebec, and Labrador. As a Project Manager with Water First, he develops and delivers technical training workshops on water quality, fish habitat, snow & ice, and mapping & GIS.
Job Titles:
- Communications & Development Specialist
Keira is an experienced graphic designer and communications professional in the non-profit and charitable industry. She holds a BA in International Development and Law from Dalhousie University and studied graphic design and communications at the Ontario College of Art and Design (OCAD). She has previously worked on supporting the implementation of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples on the federal and International level and is ready to support the work of the Water First team through design and social media communications.
Job Titles:
- Instructor
- Project Manager
- OACETT Certified Environmental Technician
Krysta is an OACETT Certified Environmental Technician (C.Tech.) who graduated from Mohawk College with an Environmental Technician Diploma and from the University of Guelph with a Bachelor's degree in Geography. Her passion is water treatment and she has worked in different Ontario municipalities and industrial settings as a Class 2 Drinking Water Operator, as well as a Class 1 Wastewater Operator. She is an active volunteer within her community, mentoring girls in the FAB (Fit Active Beautiful) program and women as the Grand Valley OACETT Women in Technology Representative and former Chapter Chair. Krysta enjoys any opportunity to share experiences and to learn. Working at Water First, Krysta hopes to further her understanding of how to care for water and to share her experiences and knowledge of water treatment.
Job Titles:
- Instructor
- Outreach Instructor, School Water
Laura is an Ontario Certified Teacher in the Primary and Junior divisions and has a background in environmental and biological sciences from the University of Guelph and Lakehead University. She is excited to combine her passions for education and science with environmental stewardship.
Leanne Goodfellow has 13 years of experience in Human Resources and Health and Safety and is a recent graduate of the Georgian College Accounting program. Leanne has experience with full-cycle recruitment, bookkeeping and working to ensure employees stay safe in the workplace. Leanne is excited to be joining Water First and is looking forward to being a part of the Finance and Human Resources teams. She is also keen for the opportunity to learn about the delivery of safe and reliable water to Indigenous communities across Canada.
Leanne is a communications, marketing, and brand leader, strategist, and producer with 20 years of experience reaching audiences. She has helped organizations grow in the tech, renewable energy, HR, and writing industries, both globally and on this land now known as Canada. As board chair, Leanne is honoured to be involved in what she believes to be one of the most innovative and profound initiatives of our time: the co-creations that happen at Water First.
Mason is from Thunder Bay, on the North Shore of Lake Superior, the traditional lands of the Fort William First Nation. He holds a BCom in Marketing Management from Toronto Metropolitan University and is passionate about supporting good work with his skills in communications and fundraising. Mason has years of communications, marketing, outreach and administrative experience with social and environmental businesses and organizations such as MakeWay Charitable Society, Ontario Nature, Patagonia Toronto and for the past 2+ years with Water First. He is passionate about combining his communications and design experience with his love for water and community engagement to support Water First's communications and fundraising objectives.
Job Titles:
- Assistant to the Executive Director
Michelle brings 20+ years of experience with a family-run display advertising company and 10 years in freelance bookkeeping, business development, and sales. These roles gave her a solid foundation in administration at a management level, as well as the ability to work effectively with both internal and external stakeholders. She also serves on volunteer Boards of Directors. Michelle loves to find efficiencies in processes, business writing, and supporting the vision and mission of the Executive Director & Founder.
Mindy has 15 years of financial experience in the government, manufacturing, healthcare & education industries working her way up to Assistant Controller in her past role. She is currently working towards completing her accounting designation. Mindy is happy to join Water First and gain experience in a charitable organization. She looks forward to learning more about indigenous culture and hopes her experience can positively contribute towards the organization's initiatives.
An Associate Professor of Geography at Carleton University, Ottawa, Murray's research focuses on watershed hydrology and mercury sensitivity, and spans geographic regions from southern Ontario to the Canadian arctic. Murray actively incorporates community-engaged scholarship practices into his research at every opportunity.
Paola began her career with Liberty Mutual, gaining unparalleled experience in the human resources space, and has worked in senior level HR positions with notable brands such as Nike and Cineplex. Paola is currently the Founder and Principal of True North HR Consulting and is known for her smart, simple people solutions that focus business leaders on the people strategies that make a measurable difference. She and her True North team have been instrumental in the design and implementation of critical human resources processes that support Water First's hiring and staff support needs. Paola fills an integral role as an advisor to Water First.
Job Titles:
- Director of Labour Market Development at the Anishinabek Nation
Polly Bobiwash is the Director of Labour Market Development at the Anishinabek Nation, which has 39 member First Nations communities. She has spent over 35 years providing counsel to First Nations individuals, organizations, and communities in the area of employment and training services, guiding individuals to secure both fulfilling and meaningful employment.
Job Titles:
- Outreach Instructor, School Water
Rachel has many years of experience working with children/youth of all ages and is particularly passionate about environmental education, leadership and land-based learning. With a background in Indigenous Environmental Studies and Sociology, Rachel is grateful for the opportunity to work and learn on the land alongside Indigenous youth, promoting water conservation and protection.
Bob has over 25 years of experience providing auditing, accounting and advisory services for not-for-profit, public and private sector organizations and companies. In addition to his assurance work, he provides advisory services on business operations, corporate structuring, tax planning, succession planning and financial solutions. Bob has experience sitting as a Board member with BDO Canada LLP as well as several not-for-profit and charitable organizations.
Job Titles:
- Senior Manager, Environmental Water
Ryan holds a Bachelor's degree in Environmental Engineering and a Master's degree in Water Resources Engineering from the University of Guelph with a focus on hydrogeology and climate change monitoring. He also gained experience in photography while working along with environmental organizations and with the surf industry.
Job Titles:
- Project Coordinator
- Technical Trainer
Sam holds a Masters of Water Security from the University of Saskatchewan, an Environmental Technologist Diploma from Fleming College, and a BSc in Environmental Science from Saint Mary's University. Before coming to Water First, she worked at the County of Essex and the Georgian Bay Biosphere, working to incorporate climate change planning into municipal operations. She is excited to be putting her OIT certification to use alongside her passion for equitable environmental education.
Job Titles:
- Coordinator
- School Engagement Coordinator
Sarah is an Ontario Certified Teacher and has a Bachelor's degree in Environmental Studies. She has worked with students of all ages teaching environmental and outdoor education programming at multiple outdoor education centres, as well as teaching at a forest school. Sarah loves integrating curriculum with hands-on outdoor and experiential learning opportunities. She is excited to work with and learn from Indigenous communities and students, sharing her passion for the environment, outdoor activities, and environmental stewardship.
Job Titles:
- Director, Community Engagement
S.J. (Sarah Jayne) is a member of Alderville First Nation who equally embraces her Anishinaabe and settler ancestry. With over 20 years' experience in the community mental health and wellness sector, SJ's career has been rooted in addressing the inequities Indigenous people experience when accessing culturally appropriate health care, safe and affordable housing and meaningful community supports. Community work experience led SJ to her current role with Water First, facilitating ongoing Indigenous historical and cultural awareness learning paths to ensure the Water First team continues its reparation work with Indigenous communities in an informed, inclusive and respectful way. Being an Anishinaabe Kwe, SJ understands her inherent role as a Water Protector and supports meaningful collaboration with community partners.
Stephanie is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA), Chartered Accountant (CA), and holds a Master of Health Administration (MBA). Stephanie has more than 17 years of finance and audit experience in the hospital and health community sector.
Stephanie's first introduction to not-for-profit organizations was working as an auditor for both KPMG and BDO, where she gained experience auditing hospitals, foundations, universities & colleges, and First Nations. Stephanie left public accounting to pursue leadership roles at both Georgian Bay General Hospital and Oak Valley Health where she utilized her skills and leadership to develop efficient and effective processes, improve internal controls and successfully implement financial applications.
Stephanie has spent the last three years as Director of Corporate services for the Canadian Mental Health Association - Muskoka Parry Sound and more recently as Director of Finance & Informatics for Headwaters HealthCare centre.
Stephanie Sinclair is a documentary producer and media manager, holding a BFA in cinema studies from Toronto Metropolitan University. Her professional work focuses on the intersectional relationship between humans and their environment. She has worked with production teams on The Tree Planters (dir. Rita Leistner, 2020), and Verona (dir. Sebastian Back, 2023). She currently holds a position at One Tree Planted, a global reforestation nonprofit focusing on positive social and environmental impact.
Stephen holds an Honours Bsc in Indigenous Environmental Studies and an MSc in Environmental Life Sciences from Trent University. Stephen's experience has been focused on environmental pollution, fisheries and community-based programs with First Nations.
Job Titles:
- Coordinator
- School Engagement Coordinator
Tanya is an Ontario Certified Teacher and holds a Graduate Diploma of Education in the Primary and Junior divisions, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Physical Geography. Her background includes several years of teaching experience on a First Nations reserve, as well as time spent delivering environmental programming. Her goal is to provide engaging and empowering, land-based learning opportunities for the Indigenous youth she works with.
Teresa brings 19 years of experience in fundraising, donor relations and event management to the Water First team. She enjoys connecting and collaborating with donors and community organizations to realize their philanthropic goals while supporting Water First's mission. She graduated from Carleton University with an Honours Bachelor of Journalism and English.
Teza is an award winning television and film producer and co-founder of Amaze Film & Television, working with YTV, HBO & Disney among others. She balances the bright lights of the entertainment industry with the bucolic pasture of her Duntroon farm.
Émilie has over 16 years of international experience working in the water and sanitation sector for non for profit organizations. She has collaborated with numerous small to large NGOs, municipalities, educational institutions and Governments to increase the availability of safe water and adequate sanitation facilities locally. She holds a Master in Water Management from Cranfield University, UK and a Bachelor in Wildlife and Countryside Conservation from Bishop Burton College, UK.