Aileen Duncan

Location - Ottawa, ON
Born and raised in Ottawa, though I currently work in Gatineau, GC. It's neat to cross a provincial border to get to the office! In this region, borders are marked by rivers and bridges. 

This is the traditional territory of the Algonquin Anishnaabe People. This region was important to them as a gathering point for trade-based activities, and also contained a spiritual site at the Chaudière falls (now a condo development...). According to Wikipedia, "Akikodjiwan is the name given to the falls by some Anishinaabe peoples of this area. For Anishinaabe who gathered and traded along portage routes surrounding the Falls, the waterfall's whirlpool was the bowl of a great peace pipe, and its mists were smoke rising to the Creator. "

What gets me up in the morning (tell us about what you enjoy doing):
I'm a social person and night owl. Coffee is an essential part of my morning routine, and movement is something I love. I'm training to become a yoga instructor. I love live music, exploring, hiking, swimming, kayaking, and jigsaw puzzles. 

A bit about me:
My earliest/most influential memory of the ocean... spending hours playing in the water and collecting shells near my grandparent's place at Grand Bend, on Lake Huron. 
I'm excited to be a part of Ocean Bridge because...  I've done lot of community service related to arts and culture, but outdoor activities are my other main passion. I'm looking forward to better aligning my volunteer service with things that promote a connection to nature and an active lifestyle, and less with nightlife.

Tell us something random about yourself :
My favourite marine animal... Octopuses!! They are SO WEIRD. <3 

Name: Alana Wittman

Location (Traditional Territory and City/Town):

Currently, I am living on  Anishinaabe, Haudenosaunee, Huron-wendat and Mississaugas of the New Credit territory in Toronto. I grew up in Blackfloot and Stoney  Nakoda territory in Calgary, went to university in  Syilx territory in Kelowna, and worked on Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh territory in Vancouver before moving to Toronto.

What gets me up in the morning:

My morning coffee and beet-ginger-carrot smoothie!

A bit about me:

At the moment, I am in grad school studying environmental planning in urban areas. My research is focused on how cities can increase their natural and structural capacity to adapt to climate change and extreme weather events by transitioning away from hard infrastructure and towards green infrastructure. Before returning to school, I worked as a community organizer for two not-for-profit charities, Reconciliation Canada and the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS), where I led citizen mobilization campaigns to inspire people to take action on social and environmental issues in their region. 

My first and most influential memory of the ocean was when I was 17: As my graduation gift to myself, I bought a flight to Victoria, packed my backpacking gear and a map for the Juan de Fuca trail. Seeing the ocean for my first time while on my first solo multi-day hiking trip was amazing. 

I'm very interested in watershed planning and the expansion of the National Marine Conservation Area system. I'm looking forward to engaging with these topics during the Ocean Bridge program.

My favourite marine animal: The sea otter - it always looks like they are having so much fun!

Name: Aly Soliguen

Location: I live on the traditional land of the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in in Dawson City, Yukon Territory.

What gets me up in the morning: What gets me up in the morning are my two dogs (Sadie and Charlie) and my beardie Prince (he gets mad for the rest of the day if he wakes up and his food bowl is empty..) 

A bit about me: I’m originally from the Philippines and moved all the way to the Yukon when I was 12. Growing up in the Philippines, my grandma’s backyard was the beach so I mostly spent all my childhood days by the water. The reason why I am so eager to spread word about marine pollution is because I have seen first hand how much it affects not only marine life but as well as humans that rely on the ocean as their way of life. One of my favourite memories is waiting for fishermen to come back from sea and help release marine animals that are caught on the fishing nets but are not beneficial in terms of profit. 

Tell us something random about yourself: The first time I went fishing with my stepdad, I caught a fish and started crying (literally bawled my eyes) and begged him to put it back. I still do to this day and my brother just looks at me weirdly.

Name: Anika Riopel
Location:

I grew up in Sault Ste Marie, Ontario,  which is the traditional territory of the Anishnaabeg. I currently live in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq People, (Halifax) Nova Scotia.  I moved here because I wanted to be close to the ocean and in a mid-sized city with a thriving arts scene! 

What gets me up in the morning: People and pets: my jobs and co-workers(whom I love), plans with people, events, event planning and taking my gentle giant German shepherd Boris for walks. 

A bit about me:
I have an eclectic background. Having dropped out of theatre school at 18, I completed a culinary degree and worked and travelled around the world, from to tree planting camps to pubs and even a brief contract with cirque du soliel. While travelling I got into SCUBA diving and became engrossed with the concept of environmental education through experiential learning! This lead me to Dalhousie University where I completed a degree in Environment, Sustainability and Society and Theatre Arts. I'm all about making events that create bring diverse groups together and give people experiences that can sneakily help broaden and shift perspectives.

An ocean-related issue close to my heart is connection and story telling. Right now I'm really into all the different water spirit mythologies that exist in cultures around the world. I think that to move forward in a world in which climate change is a reality, we need to figure out how to work together and respect each other. 

My earliest/most influential memory of the ocean, growing up on the shores of Lake Superior, I was obsessed with water and mermaids and oceans. My first memory of the ocean was on a family trip to BC where I learned that the ocean is indeed salty after jumping in with my mouth open. I was also really pumped with the micro universes in the tidal pools. 

I'm excited to be a part of Ocean Bridge because I can't wait to meet all of you! 

Tell us something random about yourself (or use one of the following suggestions): 
Random fact about me: I have completed intermediate stage combat training - specialized in short sword, long sword, unarmed and rapier and dagger. I occasionally choreograph fight scenes for shows in Halifax! 

Favourite Marine Animal: OCTOPUS - one time an octopus touch my face and it was the best day of my life. 

Name: Anika Smithson

Location: I am originally from Orangeville, ON, the traditional territory of the Huron-Wendat. I moved away for school and work, first living in Courtenay, BC on Vancouver Island, the traditional territory of the K’omoks First Nation and am currently in Wolfville, NS which is located on the traditional territory of the Mi’kmaq.

What gets me up in the morning: My alarm is usually what wakes me up in the morning, telling me to get ready for another day of school. I am currently finishing up my degree, so there is no shortage of things to get done! When I am not in school, the anticipation of spending time outside gets me up. I enjoy exploring new places, hiking, Nordic skiing and kayaking.

A bit about me: Growing up in Southern Ontario, my family spent a lot of time camping and it was during these trips that I fell in love with the outdoors. My passion for the outdoors has taken me on some pretty awesome adventures. In university, I completed a degree in Earth Sciences where I developed an interest in environmental education and outreach. To that end, I found myself out west, pursuing adventure guiding. Through a college program, I was certified as a sea kayak guide which led to some great job opportunities, like last summer, when I worked as a sea kayak guide on the Bay of Fundy. It also led me to Acadia University, where I am currently finishing up my master’s degree in community development and expect to graduate in May (yay!). My research involved an evaluation of a high school program run by Kejimkujik National Park Seaside focused on conservation issues surrounding invasive green crabs. It was a great opportunity to learn about coastal conservation issues in Nova Scotia.

My earliest memory of the ocean is on a family camping trip to PEI. I was about four years old and my family and I spent the day at the beach. My sister and I sat in the water at low tide making mud-drip sandcastles. Even though I was so young, I remember it being a lot fun, but relaxing at the same time.

I am excited to be a part of Ocean Bridge because I am passionate about ocean conservation and wanted to be part of a group of like-minded people that together can tackle issues that we might not have been able to do on our own. I am also excited to meet people from across Canada and learn more about the ocean.

Tell us something random about yourself: One of my favourite things to do when on an outdoor adventure is to get up early by myself and watch the sunrise, listening to the sounds of nature.

My favourite marine animal is the sea star. I think they are beautiful creatures. Fun Fact: Leather Stars smell like garlic.

Location (Traditional Territory and City/Town):
Montréal,  traditional territory of the Kanien’kehá:ka (Mohawk) Nation.

What gets me up in the morning:
Coffee and Eddie (my cat) :)

A bit about me:
French Canadian, native Vancouverite from Kits and Steveston, I moved closer to my French roots 6 years ago in Montréal, to pursue an artist lifestyle in vocals and guitar. In between living in Vancouver and Montréal, I attended UBC for my undergrad, and lived in Tofino and on Haida-Gwaii (in Skidegate and Queen Charlotte...I would move back to Haida Gwaii in a heartbeat! ), immersing myself in nature and was surrounded by phenomenal and inspiring people. Growing up, we only spoke French at home and attended an all-French school in Vancouver (where we were only allowed to speak English a few times a week). I now work for a health charity in Montréal, and will soon be starting my master's degree in sustainability at UdeM.

During these Covid-19 days, I fill my time with: sustainability & environmentalist, rockhounding, yoga, music, and helping people.

Tell us something random about yourself:
I have an identical twin sister. 

Name: Bridget John

Location: I grew up in Collingwood, ON, my summers filled with playing in the waves of Georgian Bay and winters of carving up the hills. Trading in the hills for mountains and lakes for oceans, I currently work and play at the head of Atl’ka7tsem/ Howe Sound on the unceded and traditional territory of the Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh Nations in beautiful Squamish, BC.

What gets me up in the morning: I’ve yet to appreciate the vial taste of coffee...probably going to make enemies with that one! Everyday there’s something to learn and something to share, whether it happens as I scale a mountain in my own backyard or when I’m deep in conversation about the ocean. 

A bit about me: After graduating with a Combined Major of Biology and Oceanography at the University of British Columbia, my life has revolved around the marine environment. From interning as a cetacean researcher in the Irish Sea to working as a fisheries observer on commercial fishing boats off BC’s northwest coast. Currently, I am working two jobs that I hold very close to my heart. I am working with the Ocean Wise Mobile Programs team sharing how we are all connected to the ocean and solutions to maintaining a flourishing ocean. I am also working for the Howe Sound/Atl’ka7tsem Marine Reference Guide as a research assistant building capacity to improve the future of marine spatial planning. My earliest memory of the ocean was in Rhode Island - as a curious 5 year old I just had to know what a jellyfish’s tentacles felt like! 

Tell us something random about yourself: I love to climb outside and ski tour. You can count on me that I’m always up for an adventure! I’m excited to be part of the 2020 Ocean Bridge Atlantic Cohort.

Location: I'm currently living in Halifax, in the unceded territory of the Mi'kmaq, but I'm originally from Winnipeg (traditional territory of the Cree, Oji-Cree, Dene, Dakota, and Anishinaabe, and homeland of the Metis) which

is about the farthest place in Canada you can get from the oceans. 

What gets me up in the morning: the next opportunity to learn something interesting - whether that's exploring somewhere I've never been, trying a new recipe, reading, or talking with someone new. I love to play sports (I'm a touch competitive), with squash being the current flavour of the month. 

A bit about me: my earliest memory of the ocean was snorkelling in Mexico. I simply could not believe the diversity of animals I was seeing, the colours, the movement. Seeing a real live sea turtle and being blown away by how graceful it was. And I won't ever forget the sailfish that scared the hell out of me. The ocean-related issue closest to my heart is biodiversity loss. I'm continually flabbergasted by obscure tidbits of ocean information and the fact that we may never learn about something because we've destroyed it makes me upset. 

Something random: I'm a former college football player (go Bisons) and my favourite food is cheese.   

Name: Cayley Elcombe

Location – I live on the traditional territory of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations in Vancouver, BC. I am originally from Winnipeg, MB (Territory of Anishinaabe, Cree, Oji-Cree, Dakota, Dene peoples and homeland of the Metis Nation. ), where I spent most of my childhood. I’ll always have a place in my heart for the prairies but now I can’t imagine living anywhere other than Vancouver!!
What gets me up in the morning: I love going to work every day knowing that I am making a difference. I love going to the beach with my dog on the weekends. And I’m a bit of a foodie, so I love finding hidden gems in the city when I have time!
A bit about me:
An ocean-related issue that I am concerned about is overfishing. I was part of a lab during my time at Simon Fraser University and learned a lot about the realities of overfishing in today’s world. My earliest memories of the ocean were from when I was little, because we used to come to Vancouver every summer to visit relatives. The beach has always been my happy place! I’m super excited to be a part of Ocean Bridge because this is an awesome opportunity to meet and work with people who are passionate about the same thing. I’m also a believer that education is the key to fighting issues affecting our oceans.
Tell us something random about yourself:
My favourite marine animal is the whale shark. I think they are so cool!

Name: Cindy Au Yeung

Location: I grew up and live on the traditional territory of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations in Vancouver, BC.

What gets me up in the morning: Definitely the idea of food and making a cup of hot tea or coffee! It is then followed by a short wave of panic from snoozing my alarm too many times and begrudgingly sliding out of bed before I’m running late for work or a meeting! :)


A bit about me: I am extremely blessed to live by the Pacific Ocean. In the summer, I love all kinds of water-related activities – whether it’s kayak or canoe-camping or attempting to learn windsurfing… (why is it so hard?!) But when I am in the ocean, I feel like my soul comes alive!

Yet, living by the ocean has also made me aware of so many interconnected issues that affect ocean health. I'm really hoping to combine my day job working as an editor in the film industry with my passion for ocean environmentalism to bring awareness to these issues.

I am extremely excited to be part of Ocean Bridge to meet like-minded people who love the ocean and want to make a difference! It would be so enlightening to learn about each other’s perspectives and experiences with the ocean.


My favourite marine animal: Sea glass sponges and corals are extremely fascinating. I love that they provide homes for so many other little fishes and animals! And I love seeing jellyfish swim!

Name: Claire Wilson

Location: I live in Albert Bridge on Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia which is the traditional territory of the Mi’kmaq. 

What gets me up in the morning: 

I am definitely not a morning person, but once I have woken up a bit there's so much that gets me excited for the day ahead! I love to play the fiddle, draw and paint. My current art project is painting every lighthouse in Cape Breton! On the days when I don’t have class at my university, I work at a ski hill and teach skiing. When the ski hill is not open, I can probably be found taking my dog to the beach, hiking, or spending time with my friends!

A bit about me:

My earliest memory of the ocean is having a picnic with my parents at Simon’s Point in Cape Breton. I was just a toddler at the time, but I still have a picture of me and my dad from that day! I grew up spending tons of time at all of the many beaches near my house with my parents, my friends, and my dog, so I have so many happy memories of the ocean. Now every time I go to a beach, I end up picking up a lot of plastic to recycle which is really upsetting. Limiting my use of single-use plastics is one thing I have committed to try to do in order to reduce my impact on the ocean and the environment. I have to admit that I am a bit of a shopaholic, so buying clothes that are more sustainable like ones that are made from recycled materials, natural fibers, or are thrifted is something that I am super passionate about. The textile industry has a big impact on the environment and water sources, so I do my best to limit my contributions. Through Ocean Bridge, I am really excited to help protect the oceans that I love so much!

Tell us something random about yourself:

The lobster has to be my favourite marine animal; they are so iconic of Nova Scotia!

L

ocation - I live on the traditional terriroty of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations in Vancouver, BC. I recently moved back to Vancouver to be closer to the outdoors and the lifestyle I want to live.

What gets me up in the morning: My dog gets me up in the morning with kiss

es and the prospect of going on a hike with her gets me out of bed. The hikes I get really excited about involve a waterfall, mountains/lakes, or are along the coast.

A bit about me:

An ocean-related issue close to my heart is… the harm of plastic water bottles. We live in a place with safe drinking water that is free in Canada. Buying bottled water is essentially paying money to put plastic into our oceans. 

My earliest/most influential memory of the ocean… is spending hours with my grandpa at the beach (which was his front yard) in Powell River (very remote). We would find starfish, save stranded fish in the tidal pools, and go digging for clams. This is where my amazement with oceans began.

Tell us something random about yourself :

I have a daily joke. I started the distribution list because I work in a corporate job and people around me needed to smile more.

Name : Eli Lusty

Location : Halifax, NS -- Mi'kmaq Territory

What gets me up in the morning?

I'm motivated by the community and commitments that I've surrounded myself by. That's what get me out of bed and I've found it a better life than lying under my covers until I get bored.

A bit about me & the ocean...

I grew up in Ontario and my earliest memory of the ocean is visiting Nova Scotia as a child and gagging on the ocean water while snorkelling.
The most epic moment I've ever experienced was drifting underwater off a coral cliff by Belize and gazing East - thinking about how I've never had my entire gaze filled by a single uniform color before. I then looked down and saw a Sea Turtle and two Eagle Rays gliding past each other. It was a stupendous moment.

Random...
I follow the news exhaustively, to the point that I get at least three news alerts whenever there's a major event.

Name: Hi there, my name is Grace!

Location (Traditional Territory and City/Town): I am currently completing my undergraduate degree in Hamilton, ON on the traditional Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee territory and I am originally from Ottawa, ON on the traditional Algonquin territory. 

What gets me up in the morning (tell us about what you enjoy doing): I love doing yoga in the mornings and enjoying a nice cup of coffee. I'm grateful to be surrounded by wonderful friends as well who make every day a treat!

A bit about me: My interest in ocean conversation developed while working at Fundy National Park and living beside the Atlantic ocean in Alma, NB. I can usually be found hiking, creating a new vegan recipe, or searching for moths! An ocean-related issue close to my heart is sustainable fishing and finding solutions to maintain sigh populations and dependent local economies. I'm excited to be a part of Ocean Bridge because of all of the incredible people who are part of this program. I am looking forward to sharing passions and ideas with this national network and collaborating with other young people who are committed to increasing ocean-related advocacy. 

My favourite marine animal: Definitely salmon, although they are an anadromous species, meaning they spend part of their life in freshwater and part in the ocean! 

Name: Jacob Young

Location: I grew up in Windsor Nova Scotia, which traditionally had a large mix of different Mi'kmaq groups such as passamaquoddy, Wabanaki and a few others!

What gets me up in the morning: Myself, I love waking up early so I can start my day off right! I then prepare myself for school and any extracurriculars that are planned for the day.

A bit about me: I'm currently in my last year of high school and plan on going to Dalhousie University for Marine Biology/Ocean sciences in hopes to become a shark technician and tech developer.

An ocean related issue close to my heart currently is a problem my town faces. Our local government created a causeway which does not allow for proper fish passage from the salt marshes which use to be connected to our new formed lake. They now plan on twinning the highway which would destroy more habitat(salt marshes) and they chose to ignore the consequences the fish/environment would face. One of the main species that would be affected would be the tomcod that the Mi'kmaq have been fishing for generations, this is a serious problem and something I want to fix.

My most influential memory was learning about sharks! Since grade primary I've been reading books and watching documentaries on these wonderful fish, it was to the point where my teachers would take away all the shark books in the classroom. My love for sharks later evolved in a love for the ocean and all that resigns in it.

I'm excited to be apart of Ocean Bridge because I want learn more ways I can help the ocean and the animals that live in it, I feel by being apart of an organization that collaborates in group projects strictly for the ocean will benefit the ocean and allow me to be apart of something bigger!

My favourite marine animal: Is sharks, more specifically The Great White Shark!

Name: Jamil Mahamud

Location – I Live on the traditional territory of Anishinaabe, Haudenosaunee, Huron-wendat (Wyandot) and Mississaugas of the New Credit in Toronto Ontario.

What gets me up in the morning (tell us about what you enjoy doing): This question is deep, emotional, and powerful. Every morning I wake up trying to figure out what it is I should do with my life. However, I spend a lot of free time hiking, camping, canoeing, backpacking, rock climbing, learning science and about the universe, the origin of life and human civilization. I have yet to find the career that I want to invest my life in to. 

A bit about me: I am 26 and yet I have not been able to narrow down to what it is that I really want to do yet. A wise man (Arthur Schopenhauer) Once said “ A man can surely do what he wills to do, but he can not determine what he wills”, to make life easier I have been trying to figure out what I am willing to do through a process of elimination. I have been able to narrow it down to the point where I believe that I must work towards

protecting the environment in some way. Maybe the fact that I did my undergraduate in Earth and Environmental Science had something to do with it.

The first time I saw the ocean was at the small city at the cost of Bangladesh knows as “Cox’s Bazar”. I remember the vastness of the open ocean was something I could not wrap my mind around. I remember running into the ocean for the first time and learning how salty the water is and that opening my eyes underwater was not a good idea. 

I am excited to be part of Ocean bridge because I want to learn more about oceans and get a chance to help in its conservation

Something random about my self: I like particle Physics.

Jen Martel

Location (Traditional Territory and City/Town)

I was born and raised and currently reside on unceded Stó:lō and Coast Salish Territory in Abbotsford, B.C.

What gets me up in the morning

Typically my cat meowing incessantly at the door and making it to the gym early enough to get a spot in my favourite fitness class.

A bit about me

One of my most influential memories of the ocean was when I was living in Turks and Caicos developing swimming and aquatic programs. I was participating in an open water interisland swimming race. The water was perfectly clear that day, and I could see every detail of the ocean floor. It was both beautiful and horrifying because below those turquoise water, right next to the “Best Beach in the World” (as deemed by Tripadvisor), laid a staggering amount of trash. Plastic cups, utensils, and straws; flip flops, beach toys, and alcohol containers. The following week I got a group together who committed to doing a monthly beach clean-up around the island which grew incredibly and became sponsored by several companies on island.

Following my stint in Turks and Caicos, I moved to Sweden to pursue a Masters in Strategic Leadership towards Sustainability. My experience on the island helped inspire my thesis which examined “Promoting Sustainability through the Integration of Citizen Science and Ecotourism”.  

As someone who lives inland, I’m excited to be part of the Ocean Bridges program as I feel it’s important for communities like mine to understand how much of an impact, for better or for worse, we can have on the ocean despite it being over 50km away from it.

Tell us something random about yourself

I’ve been a national athlete in four different sports and was the national head coach of a fifth sport, but I still trip over flat surfaces on a daily basis.  

Favourite marine animal

While it brings me to tears every time I see whales or dolphins in the wild, I find octopuses with their hilarious cleverness and nudibranchs with their stunning variety equally as awesome.

Name : Josianne Haag

Location (Traditional Territory and City/Town) : I was raised in North Vancouver, BC which is on the unceded territory of the Tsleil-Waututh Nation. 

What gets me up in the morning : I love playing sports and enjoying the outdoors by land or water. 

A bit about me : 
My earliest/most influential memory of the ocean was canoeing in the Indian Arm and playing with the moon jellies. 
I'm excited to be a part of Ocean Bridge because I want to meet more people as excited about the ocean as I am. 

Tell us something random about yourself (or use one of the following suggestions):
My favourite marine animal is the sea cucumber. 

Name: Hi, I’m Julia Wiebe!

Location: I live in Vancouver, British Columbia which is part of the traditional territory of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations.

What gets me up in the morning: I am extremely lucky to live in such a beautiful location where I have a view of the ocean every morning! Sunrise hikes and a really good cup of coffee with my loved ones would be my perfect way to start every day. 

A bit about me: I grew up in Calgary, Alberta and lived there for the better part of 21 years! My sisters and I took a road trip to Vancouver to run in the Seawheeze Half Marathon, and I fell in love with the way the ocean kissed the city each morning. After returning home I packed my bags and moved to Vancouver three weeks later! After living in a landlocked city for basically my whole life I definitely do what I can to explore Vancouver’s backyard. As much as the rainy climate will allow me, that is!

I love to travel and have had the opportunity to visit a new country a year! As a result I feel really passionate about protecting the bodies of water that connect us all together. I am excited that we have the opportunity to bring awareness to, and to create and participate in the conversation surrounding ocean conservation. For me, being a part of Ocean Bridge means being a part of change. It means that I get to be a part of something beneficial to our entire world.

Favourite Marine Animal: I have a lot of favourites but if I were to choose... a sea otter! 

Name : Kaelyn Middleton

Location: I was born and raised in Winnipeg on treaty one land of the Anishinabek.

What gets me up in the morning : school!

A bit about me:
An ocean-related issue close to my heart is oil spills & cetacean-related tourism!
My earliest/most influential memory of the ocean my first time seeing the ocean in real life wasn't until I was 17! That was incredible to witness the power and life of it after a long time of distance & imagination.

Tell us something random about yourself (or use one of the following suggestions):

My favourite marine animal are dolphins, I was always obsessed with them since I was little! I love all cetaceans. 

What gets me up in the morning: FOOD. If there is something cooking I'll be up in an instant. Once I'm up, my inner fuel is SCIENCE. I absolutely love everything science and science communication, and I am grateful that I get to share that passion each day through my job. Knowing that I can make an impact in rural children lives through science literacy and engagement on a daily basis is definite way to stay motivated

A bit about me: I have a B.Sc in Biochemistry and a Masters in Science Communication from Laurentian University - these combined haven given me the opportunity to be a "Bill Nye of North Western Ontario" delivering science shows and programs to kids across Northern Ontario (who doesn't like elephants toothpaste and explosions?!). I enjoy everything outdoors, I love laughing, and I live for a good adventure. 

My most influential memory of the ocean is from travelling the coast of California I was able to kayak on Monterey bay, which was INCREDIBLE. Being able to see the vast amount of wildlife from just a short 2 hour kayak was mind blowing. Knowing these species can be at risk due to ongoing pollution and ocean bleaching is something that lends a heavy heart.
I'm excited to be a part of Ocean Bridge because I have always lived in land and have had very little exposure to the ocean. I understand the importance of our oceans and it's impacts inland, however I would love to extend this knowledge and be able to spread it to the thousands of children I interact with on a yearly basis. I also can't wait to meet what appears to be an incredible group of youth! 

Tell us something random about yourself:
I love using comedy as a method of science communication :) Let's make some jokes together!

Name: Kamaya Atterberry

Location (Traditional Territory and City/Town):

I grew up on the utraditional territory of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations in North Vancouver, BC.

What gets me up in the morning:

My morning coffee and my dogs barking at a squirrel.

A bit about me:

I try to be outdoors as much as I can. Whether, it’s going for a quick walk with my dogs, camping, hiking, or kayaking. I want to start combining my passion for the ocean and photography to help bring awareness to the issues that our oceans face. Issues that is occurring that are close to my heart is plastic pollution and overfishing, and I want to find ways to tackle this with the help from my community and this program.

My first and most influential memory of the ocean was when I was around 6 years old. My friend and I would always go down to our local beach and swim out to on of the buoys. Then, we would dive as deep as our lungs could hold and then we would turn on our back and float back up to the surface. I honestly thought I was a mermaid at that point in life.

My favourite marine animal: Sea Lions! They are adorable and remind me of dogs.

Name: Kirsten Desorcy
Location: I currently live in Steinbach, Manitoba. (Anishinabek) I grew up in the surrounding small french towns of Ste-Anne and La Broquerie.
What gets me up in the morning: My kids, School, a good book.

A bit about me:
An ocean-related issue close to my heart is the possible extinction of so many marine animals. The climate change, the plastic pollution and overfishing is devastating to the marine ecosystem. 

My earliest/most influential memory of the ocean would be when I was two my parents brought me down to BC to visit family and ended up bringing me to the Vancouver Aquarium, where I got to see orcas (Finna & Bjossa). Then a year later Free Willy came out and I was hooked! I've only seen the ocean that time and then again when I was 24 but no matter where I am I get drawn to water. So I did a lot of camping next to lakes growing up. My dream is to live on the coast somewhere someday.

Tell us something random about yourself:
My favourite marine animals are orcas. :) 

Name: Laura Hirt 

Location: I am from Scarborough, Toronto ON. Anishinaabe, Haudenosaunee, Huron-wendat (Wyandot) and Mississaugas of the New Credit territory. 

What gets me up in the morning: I like to sleep in, but when I do get up I enjoy thinking about what my next project is going to be. I do this even when I have already started on a few. 

A bit about me: I am a graduate from Seneca College, Fashion Arts program. My passion is trying to find a way for my industry to be more sustainable. At the very least I try to make sure that my brand is eco friendly. One of the largest problems in my industry is the amount of water pollution it creates. This affects our oceans and Great Lakes, especially when thinking about cotton. This is why I try my best never to buy new fabric when making clothing and I only shop for myself at thrift/ vintage stores. I am very excited to be apart of the Ocean Bridge because now I will be able to find like minded individuals that I can share my knowledge of the Fashion world with. I will also be able to learn way more about our oceans then I ever could on my own, and hopefully use that knowledge to help change my industry for the better. 

Something random about myself: I am a competitive Archer, also my favourite animal is an Alpaca because they are cute and have the softest wool (for me to make things out of). 

Photo credits: Natasha Hirt

Name : Marie-Andrée Désourdy

Location - I live in Montréal, QC,  (Kanien'keha:ka (Mohawk) territory)

What gets me up in the morning : I am so not a morning person haha! But I get up to go to school, I am ending a technical degree in agriculture.

A bit about me : My first language is French, I was raised in St.Bruno, south shore of Montréal, and move to Montréal for my studies. I enjoy camping, hiking, reading and taking care of my garden. 

My most influential memory of the ocean is when I went to Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) and realized how much pollution there was in the ocean. The Copacabana beach was so filled with garbage that it was really disgusting to swim. I'm excited to be a part of Ocean Bridge because I really believe that we can reduce plastic waste to increase the health of our oceans.

Tell us something random about yourself : I can drive tractors! 
And my favourite marine animal is the seal because it looks like a clumsy big sausage when it's on land!

Name: Mariko
Location: I live on Treaty 6 territory, the traditional meeting grounds of the Cree, Saulteaux, Blackfoot, Métis, Dene and Nakota Sioux peoples, also known as Edmonton, AB (ironically one of Canada's 2 landlocked provinces).

What gets me up in the morning:

Warm hot chocolate, a tasty breakfast, meeting my friends, and going to campus are all reasons for me to roll out of bed in the morning.
A bit about me:
I am an environmental studies student at the University of Alberta. I am passionate about the environment, sustainability, women's empowerment and getting young girls involved in STEM, which I believe is a key aspect in solving the global climate crisis. I love travelling, meeting new people, exploring new places and most of all, making people laugh! An ocean-related issue close to my heart is plastic and microplastic pollution and also the harmful practice of shark finning. I am excited to be part of Ocean Bridge because of the opportunity to connect with other like-minded individuals from across Canada and to combine talents and ideas to spread awareness about ocean conservation issues
Tell us something random about yourself :
I love the snow and being outside, I was a snowboard instructor for six years! Also, my favourite marine animals are whales and sharks

Name: Martin Ostrega

Location: I live on the traditional territory of the Huron-Wendat First Nations in Oakville, Ontario.

What Gets Me Up In The Morning: On the best day it would usually be a day of research or a fishing trip. Any opportunity that I would get to be out by a river or water is enough motivation to get me up at any time and enjoy doing what I love. 

 A Bit About Me: An issue that is currently occurring that I hold close to my heart would be that of overfishing. I have seen and researched this issue throughout the Caribbean, Great Lakes, Atlantic, and Pacific coasts. I hope to learn about ways to combat this through the completion of my Master of Marine Management, as well as, through the Ocean Bridge Program. As an avid fly fisherman, I would want to protect vital fisheries that are in a crisis and ensure fish are able to thrive sustainably and their habitat is protected. Being someone who travels to several destinations to fish, I want to ensure that future generations are able to enjoy the beauty and serenity that comes with fishing and respect waterways the way that I do.

Something Random About Me: My favourite fish species would be any Salmonid, Permit, Bonefish, or Tarpon. These fish are species that I love and are in need of protection so that these wonderful animals are able to thrive for centuries to come.

Name: Melina Stokes
Location: I grew up on the unceded

traditional territory of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations in North Vancouver, BC. 
What gets me up in the morning: 

A big ol' lick from my dog and cat cuddles. If I could have it my way I'd have a big family breakfast on Hornby island with pancakes and fruit every day (wouldn't that be the best way to get up in the morning?)

A bit about me: 

If I'm not out running, I am out rowing, and if I'm not rowing I'm reading! You could catch me on top of a mountain or poking around tide pools with my beautiful dog Charlie. 

My earliest memory of the ocean is waiting on the beach at Cate's park with my sisters while my dad went scuba diving to bring us back a bucket full of sea cucumbers, crabs and urchins to look at! 

I am very passionate about Herring in the Salish Sea. You may not know about these little fish...but they are BIG part of the coastal ecosystem. Despite record breaking low numbers of these big little fish, the fisheries are still going strong! By standing up for herring, we protect the entire ecosystem all the way up the food chain to the orcas! #biglittlefish

My favourite marine animal: Orcas!! Holy smokes they are just amazing in so many ways! 

Name: Miranda Floreano

Location:  I am from the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee in Hamilton, ON. I currently live in Lindsay, ON where I attend the school of Environmental and Natural Resource Sciences at Fleming College. 

What gets me up in the morning: Getting out in nature, doing field work and soaking in the sun. Going to school with passionate people who care about the environment so much and faculty who are always going above and beyond to provide incredible learning experiences, is something I look forward to every day. 

A bit about me: I completed my undergraduate degree in Life Sciences at McMaster University. Initially planning to go into healthcare, I took an Environmental Issues course as an elective and it opened my eyes to the field in a whole new way! I then switched paths, focusing my courses on ecology and environmental science and had the incredible opportunity to partake in conservation research in the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve in the Amazon Rainforest of Peru with Operation Wallacea. 

As an Ecosystem Management student, I'm excited to be a part of Ocean Bridge because it brings together three of my favourite things: marine health, education and conservation! I am really looking forward to meeting the other members of the cohort and connecting with my community in a meaningful way. 

An ocean-related issue close to my heart is overfishing. As an ecology student, I am very interested in population dynamics and understanding the delicate balance that needs to be maintained in order for species to thrive.

Tell us something random about yourself: My favourite marine animals are otters! Did you know that they carry their favourite rock in the loose skin under their arms and use it to open clams and other food!  

Name: Mitchell Levesque-Mehaney

Location: I live in two areas! When I'm not attending university in St. John's I live in small community out in the "bay", in the town of Summerford! Both of which are the traditional territory of the Beothuk and Mi'kmaq  

What gets me up in the morning: What gets me up in the morning is usually my 6am alarm and a large ice coffee! But also the drive to learn new techniques regarding biology, new methods in ocean protection, and the work I do with mental health! 

A bit about me: I was born and raised in Kingston Ontario for about 9 years, until I moved to Newfoundland! I lived in a small fishing community called Indian Cove, which meant that everyday in the summer I would either be on a wharf watching all the fish and jelly fish swim around or out in boat on the absolutely stunning ocean. 

Fast forward to now, I'm completing my 3rd year of my biology degree at Memorial University (MUN), and the plan is to switch to a Joint Major in Marine Biology in the fall semester. I have always had a interest and was passionate about the literally everything that had to do with the ocean, but I was hooked when last summer I had the privilege of joining Clean Harbours Initiative which is a small ocean clean up group that started out in Twillingate! My role in Clean Harbours is to develop and deliver presentations regarding microplastics and how to protect our oceans, as well I record what our diver pulls out of the harbour and turn that into usable statistical data!

Along with my passion and curiosity of the ocean, I also run a student non for profit called MUN Minds! The goal of MUN Minds is to reduce the stigma around mental health illnesses and making it a topic that everyone is able to talk about without feeling ashamed.

Tell us something random about yourself: I realized while looking for a photo of me doing literally anything, I don't have any! So here's the first  of many tires I've pulled out of the harbour and a picture of me after "snowmageddon"

Name: Monika Szpytko
Location:: Currently living in Ottawa, but was born in Hamilton, and raised in Mississauga, Ontario. I came to Ottawa for school and stayed for work and lifestyle. Beyond that, my heritage is Polish as both my parents immigrated to Canada in their adult hood individually. I am still very close to my Polish roots (speaking Polish and eating Polish food!), and keep connected with the rest of my family living in Poland. Happy to be part of the Atlantic Cohort, and bridge the gap between my two homelands!
What gets me up in the morning:  I'm passionate about making the world a better place and reconnecting people with the environment. I'm not religious, but I am spiritual and I believe we as a species need to shift our lifestyle habits to better align with the planet's natural mechanisms for resource use, disposal, transformation, and reuse. I also believe it serves a greater objective of people learning to respect themselves, their surroundings, and live more thoughtfully in this world among others. I am passionate about science communication around climate change and environmental issues to non-experts. In the long-term, I'm exploring how best I can use my skills and creativity to have the most positive impact in this sphere.
A bit about me (tell us a bit about yourself including the answer to two of the following three questions):
An ocean-related issue close to my heart is marine pollution, as well as holding corporations accountable for their waste management practices. I know a lot about marine pollution, how it operates, and the scale of the problem. I'm interested in learning more about what solutions exist, and enhancing my problem solving skills to create new solutions!
My earliest/most influential memory of the ocean is every time I ever went camping on a lake and tried to convince all my friends it was an ocean.
I'm excited to be a part of Ocean Bridge because I believe solutions for big scale environmental problems will need to evolve through building communities and networks of people from all backgrounds dedicated to solving the problem. We need all hands on deck!
Tell us something random about yourself (or use one of the following suggestions):
My favourite marine animal is a sea turtle. It may be a cliche, but I always pictured myself riding a sea turtle. Just me and my pal Turtlee, riding that West Pacific current!

Name: Natasha Hirt

Location: I live in Tkaranto, on the traditional territories of many nations including the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishnabeg, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee, and the Wendat peoples, lands that are now home to many diverse First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. 

What gets me up in the morning: 

Almost nothing... I love sleep almost as much as I love the ocean! Though I do enjoy waking up for morning cuddles with my step-son, and I will always be excited to rush out the door for any adventure.

A bit about me:

I am a conservation photographer, I hold a BFA in Photography from OCAD University, and a graduate certificate in Environmental Visual Communication from Fleming College & Royal Ontario Museum. I am currently working full-time as the National Marketing & Graphic Design Specialist at Make-A-Wish Canada in Pickering, Ontario. I have worked as a photographer at various Parks Canada sites over the last few years, including, Rouge National Urban Park (Toronto) and Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site (Nova Scotia). I also currently volunteer as the Marketing Assistant at Photographers Without Borders. 

I am passionate about all things ocean-related so it would be hard to pick one cause that's close to my heart so here are a few that I am particularly interested in: plastics and waste-reduction (I myself am striving to have a more zero-waste and sustainable lifestyle), marine protection in Canada, overfishing and open-net fish farms, and aquatic/marine invasive species. I am also very passionate about also addressing intersecting social issues and the importance of citizen science projects.

I began competitive swimming when I was 7 years old and I have always been drawn to the water. My earliest memory of the ocean is from a family trip to Hunting Island State Park in South Carolina, looking in tide pools and salt-water marshes and finding shark teeth in the sand.

I am excited to be part of the Ocean Bridge program because it's such an incredible opportunity to collaborate with and be inspired by other youth across the country!

Tell us something random about yourself: 

I love the rain, my plant babies and sharks! 

Name: Nikki Kroetsch

Location: I live in Port Moody, British Columbia, which is located on the traditional, unceded territories of the Kwikwetlem and Tsleil-Waututh Nations.

What gets me up in the morning: What gets me up in the morning? Usually our cats screaming at me that they want to be fed, haha. What do I enjoy doing? During my free time I love doing anything outdoors, camping, horseback riding, kayaking, etc.; but my 'perfect day' is always a day spent hiking. I find peace when I'm either surrounded by trees or next to an ocean, which is likely the result of growing up on the southern coast of British Columbia.

A bit about me: I'm addicted to traveling and experiencing and learning about other cultures; if I won the lottery I would likely be a nomad for the rest of my life. I'm also a total nerd; I love learning and sharing what I've learned. I'm currently a Masters student in the Resource and Environmental Management Planning Program at Simon Fraser University, BC. My research is looking into how resource management agencies (i.e., governments) can better collaborate with community environmental stewardship groups (such as Streamkeepers) to collect environmental data. I also work as a server in a restaurant near where I live. I'm a workaholic and often struggle to find a work-school-life balance, but I love what I do, so I can't complain too much :p

Two ocean-related issues close to my heart are ocean acidification and plastic pollution. It breaks my heart to see (1) how many coral reefs have perished as a result of ocean acidification and warming and (2) the direct and indirect impacts that micro- and macro-plastic pollution in the ocean has on wildlife.

My earliest and most influential memories of the ocean are not one and the same. My earliest memories of the ocean are taking weekly ferry rides to go visit my grandparents on the Sunshine Coast, BC, and then spending hours on the beach, picking up rocks, trying to find the little crabs hiding beneath them. But my most influential memories of the ocean occur beneath the surface. I really enjoy scuba diving, and I was fortunate enough to dive on the Great Barrier Reef when I lived in Australia ten years ago, as well as in Maui when I camped there earlier this year. The barrier reef was a vibrant, flourishing, colourful underwater landscape filled with life; whereas the reefs in Maui were nothing more than the algae-covered skeletal remains of what I am told previously resembled the barrier reef in terms of vibrancy and life. The changes that we are seeing in such a short timeframe are what motivate me to work towards facilitating ocean education and literacy as well as conservation efforts.

Tell us something random about yourself (or use one of the following suggestions):

I'm a sugar-fiend; I eat way too much candy and chocolate.

Name: Reece Van Breda

Location: I live on the traditional land of Anishinaabe Territory - Thunder Bay, Ontario. 

What gets me up in the morning: Working with 2 exiting internships (Ocean Bridge & Human Rights Connected) to develop and sharpen my skills on how to become a leader on ecological and human rights concerns here in Canada and around the world, and the pragmatic approaches to them. 

A bit about me: Originally from New Liskeard (Cree Territory) and moved around Northern Ontario in my youth. Completed my Bachelor of International Development at Humber College in 2018, and planning on starting my Masters of International Development at Saint Mary's University in Halifax Fall 2020. I have lived in Ukraine, Peru, Argentina, and Israel working with different human rights organizations and the like. Interested in Fair Trade economics and capacity building. My sister completed Ocean Bridge in Great Lakes cohort 2019 and had a really great time! 

Name: Sahlla Abbasi

Location: I am originally from a small village in Thatta, Pakistan. My family and I moved to Canada when I was 6 years old and I have been living in the Land of Anishinaabe, Haudenosaunee, Huron-wendat (Wyandot) and Mississaugas of the New Credit territory (Toronto, Ontario) ever since.

What gets me up in the morning: I wake up every morning to tackle my world domination to-do list, that is unless procrastination and Netflix gets the best of me. All jokes aside, I am very ambitious to make the most of my day every day and fit in as many learning activities as I can (learning science and French, quality time with my parents, rock climbing, gym, and roller blading).

A bit about yourself: I am an environmental scientist for the Toronto Conservation Authority. I really enjoy my job as it is an extension of what I studied in school (researching and protection of urban water resources). My first and most influential memory of an ocean is when I worked as a geophysical assistant in New Brunswick three summers ago. It was tough and back-breaking work bushwhacking with heavy instruments through dense coniferous forests. But no matter how tired I was I would walk for two hours every evening along the coast of the Atlantic Ocean and watch the sunset. The orange and red hues over the vast blue ocean were mesmerizing. I promised myself I would go back to the Atlantic one day. I'm excited to be a part of Ocean Bridge because not only can I fulfill my own promise but also for a noble environmental cause!

Something random about myself: I am a HUGE rock nerd! Quartz, obsidian, feldspar, olivine, obsidian? Now you're speaking my love language. I love looking at, climbing, hiking up vast rocky landscapes and piecing together the geological history. If a perfect career for me were to exist, it would literally be walking up and down mountains and naming rocks.

Name: Shirley Ngai

Location: I was born in Hong Kong and my family moved to London Ontario (Haudenosaunee, Wyandot, and Anishinaabe territory) when I was five years old. I lived in London for most of my life, went to Western University for my B.A. and M.Sc. and moved to Ottawa (Algonquin territory) over 3 years ago for a Master of Political Management (MPM) at Carleton University. I currently work at Environment and Climate Change Canada as a Policy Advisor on the Water Policy and Coordination team. I help lead our government’s commitments on fresh water, including the creation of a Canada Water Agency. 

What gets me up in the morning: My 11-year-old cat jumping on me usually gets me out of bed in the morning. I am not a morning person, so he usually has to continuously jump on me before I get out of bed. I am a tea person, so a cup of Earl Grey is much needed. If it’s a Saturday morning, I look forward to doing a big work-out and rewarding myself with a big breakfast.

A bit about me: Having grown up in London ON, I was very fortunate to be only a 45 minute’s drive away from 2 of our Great Lakes (Lake Erie and Lake Huron). Because of that, I never really thought about our oceans very much and developed more of an expertise in fresh water. That being said, I realize the importance of the interconnections between our freshwater systems with our oceans and that is why I am excited to take part in Ocean Bridge, to hopefully learn more about those connections!

Tell us something random about yourself: I am an algae nerd. I love diatoms and have an automatic appreciation for anything microscopic.

Name: Stephanie Hale
Location:

I live in Ottawa, Ontario, which is Algonquin territory. I moved here almost 7 years ago to attend the University of Ottawa. I studied for one year in Korea then finished my undergrad in International Development and Globalization. Knowing that I wanted to work in a field closer to the environment, I decided to continue by staying in Ottawa and pursuing an additional degree in Geography.

What gets me up in the morning:

The thought of breakfast gets me up in the morning.
A bit about me:

My earliest memory of the ocean is combing a small beach in Barbados for sea glass with my sister when I was eight. We thought it was so cool but didn’t think until later how sad it really was. The problem has only escalated since then, with ocean plastic pollution increasing. My most influential memory of the oceans was when I visited a beach in Hong Kong where anyone wanting to swim would first have to wade past a thick pool of plastic. This is a major reason why ocean pollution is an issue close to my heart. Reducing my own consumption is only one way to address this, but I hope to be able to engage with others through Ocean Bridge and beyond to take on the challenge of plastic and waste reduction.
Tell us something random about yourself:

I love tea. Though I’ll have a coffee in the morning, something about a good cup of tea makes me so happy. I can’t help but buy new types as I travel, and I take regular trips to my favourite tea store in Ottawa.

Name : Umang Khandelwal

Location :  Presently, I am living on Anishinaabe, Haudenosaunee, Huron-wendat and Mississaugas of the New Credit territory in Toronto. I grew up in India, and moved to the traditional territory of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations in Vancouver, BC about 10 years ago.

What gets me up in the morning : My next challenge and connecting with loved ones.

A bit about me : I completed my undergraduate degree in International Relations (Economics & Political Science) at UBC and then went on to study law at the University of Cambridge. I am excited to be called to the bar in June 2020! Hiking in B.C., nature walks, and sunsets by the water bring me much joy. Photography makes me pause, reflect and fills me with gratitude for our natural environment. 

An ocean-related issue close to my heart is underwater noise pollution and the disruption it causes to marine animal communication, particularly whales. Another ocean-related issue I care deeply about is plastic pollution. 

I'm excited to be a part of Ocean Bridge because it brings together young Canadians from diverse backgrounds with different lived experiences and areas of expertise. I am looking forward to learning from each other and serving our oceans together. 

My favourite marine animal : Orcas - they are so majestic! I am drawn to their sense of community and family.