"The sense of connection I’d felt as a child became the foundation for a career in environmental work."

That forest wasn’t just where I played — it was where I felt at peace. Growing up on a small Alberta farm with a large family meant that life was rarely quiet. But the forests were a place where I could be alone with my thoughts and feel connected to something bigger.

I didn’t think much about what it meant to protect those places at the time. I just knew they were special.

As I grew older, I wanted to know more about the forest and the intricate systems that made everything work together. I went on to study zoology and ecology (my mom thought I’d end up working in a zoo), eager to understand the world that had shaped my childhood.

The sense of connection I’d felt as a child became the foundation for a career in environmental work that has now spanned nearly 30 years. With every step, I learned more about the challenges our environment faces and how everyday people can come together to create real, meaningful change.

Today, I’m so lucky to call New Brunswick home. This province has some of the most stunning natural spaces in Canada. When I speak to New Brunswickers, I see reflections of my childhood: stories of growing up by the water, climbing trees and discovering hidden corners of nature to call their own.

However, these things are changing. 

Forests are being overcut. Oceans are warming. Climate disasters, like record heat waves and flooding, are happening more often. It’s a lot to take in, and sometimes it feels overwhelming.

But we don’t have to face these challenges alone. Together, we have a community of people who care about protecting our forests, air, rivers and coastlines — people who know that our actions can make a big difference.

Just this year, we’ve helped New Brunswickers stand up for clean energy, better transportation, thriving oceans and healthy forests. We’ve seen big wins — commitments to electrifying school bus fleets, promises to update the Clean Air and Clean Water Act, commitments to put more restrictions on pesticide and herbicide use and more renewable energy projects that signal a brighter future.