Our Team

Dana Hutchings is co-CEO of Power To Be in partnership with Jason Cole. Dana has been working with Power To Be since 2016 with leadership in Communications, Advancement, Finance and Operations. Dana’s continuous goal is to lead with positivity first and authentically connect with people through stories and experiences. Her philosophy is simple: fostering a strong culture at work drives success.

Before joining Power To Be, Dana held a distinguished career in broadcast journalism. In her work, she held field and leadership roles. As a result of her journalism work, Dana is a Jack Webster Foundation award winner and a Social Media Award for Excellence in Engagement winner. Dana holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Victoria and a Diploma in Broadcast Communications and Media Relations from BCIT.

Dana believes deeply in the benefits delivered by giving back to the community and celebrates opportunities to advise and collaborate with other social profit organizations and business leaders. Outside of work, Dana enjoys spending time with her son, photography and getting out into nature – hiking and kayaking are her favourite.

Jason Cole is co-CEO of Power To Be in partnership with Dana Hutchings. Jay’s very fabric is sewn from the love of the outdoors and he has been with the organization since 2008. For more than 19 years, he has sought the restorative qualities of the natural environment and worked to support populations that can benefit from connecting with themselves through the power of nature. His appreciation for key mentors in his life has contributed to values of community responsibility, integrity, self-worth, leadership, and compassion, which he distils into all Power To Be programs. Holding a BA in Outdoor Recreation with honours from Lake Head University, Jay’s leadership over the dynamic committed team of youth workers and outdoor professionals ensures he will make this world a little better than when he came into it.

Alix grew up on a hobby farm and the outdoors was where her family spent much of their time working and playing. She has a great love for animals and the natural world and volunteers with two local environmental stewardship groups. Alix’s background is in hospitality and customer service and she has had the privilege of working on many beautiful private properties on the Gulf Islands. She believes in the power of community, inclusivity, and that nature can offer us whatever we need (Frank Lloyd Wright said it nicely, “Study nature, love nature, stay close to nature. It will never fail you”).

Britt comes from a lineage of Scots and Swedes and is grateful to live and love upon the land of the Lekwungen, Songhees and Esquimalt Nations. She is dedicated to unpacking the ways she is in relation to Indigenous peoples, lands and waters with transparency and curiosity. She has had the privilege to play in jungles, forests, oceans and deserts around the world but is magnetically pulled to the Coastal Temperate Rainforest. Sharing the magic of the natural world with participants of all abilities is a great passion and motivation of Britt’s. She recently designed a program for youth on Ecological Grief and Gratitude through her Master’s degree in Environmental Education and Communication. Britt works to cultivate reciprocity with the way humans interact with nature – giving back and weaving meaningful connections.

Carinna has played an instrumental role in expanding programs, developing teams and structure in both Victoria and Vancouver, enhancing evaluation tools and goals, and creating strategic partnerships at Power To Be. Carinna has a degree in Child and Youth Care and leads with an ability-centered approach. She practices inclusivity wholeheartedly, from the way she uniquely connects with individuals, to how she is consistently able to find opportunities to build on people’s strengths. Carinna understands the strategic benefit of partnerships and how rich an experience can be when it happens through the collaboration of diverse skill sets, histories, cultures, and perspectives. It is with this mindset and philosophy that Carinna aims to be a steward for people, our natural environment, and our community. Carinna values being rooted, facilitating valuable experiences, and finding authentic ways to move the notions of inclusion and impact forward collectively.

Originally from the UK, Charlotte arrived in Canada in 2013 before finding her way to Vancouver, and she hasn’t looked back since. With such immense nature in her new backyard, this provided the perfect opportunity to explore her love for the outdoors. With more than a decade of professional fundraising experience, working for Autism Initiatives Scotland, and most recently at Special Olympics BC, her passion for community engagement is strong. Holding CFRE (Certified Fund Raising Executive) designation, combined with her passion for building relationships with donors, sharing the joy of giving, and creating meaningful donor experiences has led to her joining Power To Be as our Senior Corporate Relations Officer.

Growing up on Bowen Island off the coast of B.C., Corra-Rose was regularly immersed in nature, helping her to be appreciative and present in each moment. Corra-Rose has a Diploma in Business Administration and Hospitality from Vancouver Community College. In her previous roles she worked on of both private and public charities; assisting the philanthropic intentions of donors, cultivating national awareness, and managing administration for all donations. Her passion for connectivity and nature was what brought her to Power To Be. Corra-Rose practices Santosha style yoga daily, focused on the practice’s core belief: Contentment for all that we have and appreciation for all that we are.

Elizabeth is a global adventurer with roots in the Canadian Rockies and the vast Albertan Prairies. She has journeyed around the world (a few times), but it was the call of the open sea that truly captured her spirit. 

For 15 years, she navigated the world’s waters aboard cruise ships, embracing roles that evolved from Guest Services Manager to HR Director, and finally, Sr. Fleet Guest Services Manager. Amidst the ebb and flow of the seas, she learned the true value of diversity and the unifying power of community, working alongside a vibrant crew hailing from every corner of the globe. 

Off duty, Elizabeth found solace in giving back. As an active volunteer for various animal rescue organizations, she cherishes the moments spent helping those who cannot speak for themselves. These experiences have shaped her, reinforcing the importance of compassion and understanding. 

Today, Elizabeth carries the lessons of her global adventures and sea-bound years into every endeavor. She believes in the strength of diverse perspectives and the impact of a united community. 

Raised in Cottage Country (otherwise known as Peterborough, Ontario), Em is passionate about connecting people to nature. She has travelled to Europe, Central America, and all over North America, making the trans-Canada road trip three times before settling in Victoria in 2010. With a background in drama and music, Em double-majored in psychology and sociology at the University of Victoria, before completing her Post-Grad in Therapeutic Recreation at Fleming College. With a lifetime of outdoor experiences, her certifications include sea kayaking, canoeing, and wilderness first aid. When she isn’t leading programs, you can find Em hiking through the forest, paddling down a river, or cheering (loudly) for the Toronto Blue Jays.

Emm grew up in the countryside of the UK and has been lucky enough to be surrounded by nature for most of her life. Since moving to Canada in 2022, she has discovered the beauty and benefits of connecting with the nature and people of turtle island. Now living and working as an uninvited guest on the lands of the W̱SÁNEĆ and lək̓ʷəŋən peoples, Emm is committed to be active in reconciliation and reconciliACTION, and is incredibly grateful for the opportunity to listen and learn from the many Indigenous groups, knowledge keepers, and elders who share their time, knowledge, and cultures with Power To Be.

Emm has been working as an outdoor leader and guide since 2017, and is so excited to be a part of the Power To Be community! During her training in the UK, Emm has qualified as both a paddle-sports and climbing instructor, and has developed and led programs from adaptive climbing and paddling to overnight expeditions in the mountains of Wales.

In addition to Emm’s outdoor career, she holds a Bachelor of Music from Royal Holloway University of London, where she specialised in Ethnomusicology and wrote her final year dissertation on environmentalism and sustainability in music practises from around the world.

When Emm isn’t out on program you can find her playing music, making something (usually knitting based) and drinking tea, and she can’t wait to discuss any of the above, including any knitting tips and tricks, and why Yorkshire tea is the best tea on earth.

Emma grew up playing in the forests of Ontario and is grateful to now live among mountains and ocean waves here on Vancouver Island. A curious lifelong learner, Emma has attended universities across three continents and is thrilled to complete her doctorate at the University of Victoria where her research explores permafrost in the Gwich’in Settlement Area and Inuvialuit Settlement Region. Outside of the cryosphere, Emma has worked as a summer camp director, a high school educator, and in a political office supporting the Canadian Autism Partnership. Emma’s passions involve finding new ways to play, dirt, and community building; she is so thankful to have found Power To Be where all three come together. 

Erin grew up in the West Saanich area that surrounds Power To Be’s site on Prospect Lake. She has always been inspired by the natural world and believes that everyone should be given the opportunity to seek sanctuary within it. Erin has her Red Seal Trades Certification in Landscape Horticulture and has worked in a diversity of settings including The Butchart Gardens, Horticulture College of the Pacific, Capital Regional District Parks, and Ecological Reserves. She began volunteering at Power To Be in 2023 and joined the staff team as the Environmental Stewardship and Education Program Facilitator. She helped to create and run the Landscape and Restoration program which taught young adults with self-identified disabilities horticulture and restoration skills. Erin is currently completing her undergraduate degree in Anthropology and Environmental Studies at the University of Victoria. She spends a lot of time outside and loves to photograph plants and other beings. Her aspirations in life are to connect people with plants and to spread compassion for ecosystems. 

Graham’s love for running rivers and nature flows from his childhood spent exploring the lakes and forests around Peterborough, Ontario. He started guiding canoe trips in 1998 which led to whitewater rafting and kayak instruction on the Ottawa River, and recently leading multi-week river expeditions in the Yukon and Northwest Territories. 

In addition to his outdoor experience, he holds a BA in International Development from McGill University and an MA in International Affairs from Carleton University. After calling Vancouver home for 9 years, in 2024 Graham relocated to Fernie, British Columbia, where he continues to support Power To Be with special projects focused on advancing inclusive practices in the outdoor industry. 

Drawn to the water, Jasmine is a lover of nature and adventure. Born in Ontario, she spent time in Alberta before family ties brought her to the West Coast. She connected with Power To Be as a kayak program participant more than a decade ago, and since joining the staff team has brought her organizational skills and desire to connect people to her role. Jasmine actively gives her time to supporting accessible communities, both through her involvement in the Ogden Point breakwater safety railings initiative and through time working with the Victoria Disability Resource Centre. She is motivated by her passion to inspire others to experience the healing power of being in nature. She was a 2015 Courage To Come Back Award finalist.

A long-time advocate of volunteerism and accessibility, Jennifer brings her skills in bookkeeping, and administration to Power To Be.  She loves exploring outdoors, adventure, and travel.  Her many adventures include time in Cambodia volunteering to help raise funds for vulnerable women and children, and that sparked a desire to use her skills to empower and support others to push past barriers of many kinds.  In her spare time, she can be found biking and hiking with her child, marvelling at the rain-forest canopy and enjoying the many pathways and parks nearby. 

Jen grew up in British Columbia, exploring and fostering a deep appreciation for the power of nature. Coming from a background in adaptive summer camping, Jen fell in love with supporting people with barriers and making innovative ideas become reality. Jen’s practice is rooted in creativity and community, stemming from her training in jazz music and music therapy. She is a people centered, collaborative and strategic leader. Always confident that there’s a way to make something work and driven by a belief in the strong power of community, Jen is passionate about inclusivity, innovation, and relationship building.

Kallie Laycock is the Environmental Stewardship and Restoration Lead. She enjoys working alongside young adults, and coordinates and facilitates the Landscaping and Restoration program and Alumni programs. She believes strongly in person-centered programming and works from a trauma-informed lens. She loves to get out in nature, whether it be whitewater kayaking, mountain biking, or finding a mindful sit spot. She is currently completing her Master of Counselling and is passionate about the healing power of nature.

Katie’s love for the outdoors stems from growing up exploring Vancouver Island forests and beaches and spending summers on Hornby Island. Always finding time for travel, she has taken various extended leaves throughout her education and working career to explore Europe, South East Asia, and Central and South America. Katie is keen to keep on travelling the world and to continue experiencing and learning from new cultures. Katie received her BComm in accounting from UBC and then her CPA, CA designation in 2015. She has worked for a small accounting firm in Victoria and most recently for Deloitte as a Tax Manager. She has a passion to utilize her finance and business skills to give back to the community.

Kevan was raised in Treaty 7 territory in Alberta, a place where open skies, flowing rivers and rugged mountains profoundly shaped the ways he connects with the worlds inside and outside of himself.

With a decade of experience guiding transformative learning, Kevan describes his work as hosting a warm and welcoming campfire that invites people to share their stories, explore different ways of being, and imagine new possibilities for the future.

His passion for community gathering and cultural transformation is supported by undergraduate degrees in business and sustainable development, a master’s degree in adult education, and a lifetime of learning inspired by nature and community. Referring to himself as a recovering serious person, Kevan is grateful for Power To Be, a place where he can wholeheartedly contribute to a healthier future with a spirit of optimism, playfulness and love.

Kyla grew up in the Canadian Rockies on the traditional territories of the Îyârhe Nakoda, the Tsuut’ina First Nation, and the Blackfoot Confederacy. She spent her childhood exploring the trails and rivers that made up her backyard, which helped her to form a deep connection with nature. Early years as a participant in youth wilderness skill-building and leadership programs began a lifetime of enthusiasm for sharing fun and knowledge in the outdoors. 

Kyla holds a Bachelor of Education and Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Victoria, where she served as president of the UVic Outdoors Club. Kyla has worked in various outdoor leadership roles, from leading week-long whitewater canoe trips down the North Saskatchewan River to facilitating first-time overnight camping experiences for newcomers to Canada. 

Kyla discovered a passion for inclusive outdoor recreation through becoming a program volunteer with Power To Be during her University years. When the opportunity arose to make her passion into a career, she jumped at the chance and hasn’t looked back! In her downtime, Kyla can be found exploring the trails of Squamish with her dog Hopper, or doing just about any activity in or on the water. 

Leanne grew up in the territories of the Haudenosaunee, Anishinabewaki and Mississaugas of the Credit First Nations (Toronto, Ontario) and always loved running around, climbing things she probably shouldn’t, and just being outside in general. Growing up in a large city made it harder to access nature, but Leanne was lucky to have a father who was dedicated to showing her waterways, mountains, and forests. Through him, her love for the outdoors continued to develop as she learned to canoe, kayak, and camp. Leanne also formed a deep interest in people, leading her to pursue a Bachelors of Science in Psychology at the University of Toronto. After working in Paris, France at a research lab, she soon discovered that she liked working with people more than computers and came back to Canada to explore Social Work. Leanne specialized in working with youth and families who had experienced violence and created two different violence prevention programs for youth in school-based settings.  

In 2020, Leanne decided to move her explorations out west and ended up in Kelowna, British Columbia, to pursue a Master of Social Work. She discovered Power To Be through working at a similar agency in Kelowna (Elevation Outdoors), and began to explore the connection between mental health and nature. She also discovered her passion for rock-climbing, and co-created a queer rock-climbing club with her Kelowna community. Now, in Victoria, you can find her climbing rocks, playing music with her friends, and biking around with her partner. Leanne is passionate about access to nature for everyone and connecting the natural world with our mental worlds. She is stoked to have found Power To Be and to be a part of this community! 

Liz was born and raised on a horse farm in the Comox Valley, and enjoys spending time exploring Vancouver Island and the surrounding Gulf Islands.  She feels privileged to live a life with access to amazing outdoor recreation, exploring new locations with her dogs, going mountain biking, trail running and hiking.  Working with horses continues to affirm within her a sense of grounding and connectedness.   Liz comes to Power To Be with experience in the nonprofit and adaptive recreation fields, and she is passionate about connecting others to similar opportunities.

Maria is a lifelong learner, who is constantly seeking deeper understanding, fulfillment, and joy in life. Originally from Saskatchewan, she has called the West Coast her home for 15 years and says that and the wild expanse of nature recharges her soul. Maria is a Jill of all Trades with a diverse background in film, event production, project management, finance and client services. She has a BFA in Drama from the University of Saskatchewan, Diploma for Acting in Film and Television from Vancouver Film School, Integrative Energy Healing Certificate from Langara, a Diploma in Bookkeeping and Payroll from Ashton College, and various additional certificates for healing modalities. Maria is constantly honing her skills, and intentionally creating space for change and growth. In her spare time, she teaches meditation and energetic healing.

Growing up, Marin’s most cherished memories are those spent in nature, exploring the woods and waterways of the Kawartha Lakes. Nature has always been a place of connection and a source of rejuvenation for her. Marin moved to the West Coast in 2022, and is very grateful to live and explore on the traditional and unceded lands of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish), and səl ̓ ilw̓ ətaʔɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations. 

Marin has a degree in Child, Youth, and Family Development and has always enjoyed working with people of all ages and abilities. Previously working at summer camps, therapeutic recreation-based programs within the health care sector, and most recently leading a community-based support program on the North Shore; joining the Power To Be team has been a perfect melding of her personal and professional passions. 

Knowing firsthand the benefits that time spent in nature has on our wellbeing, Marin is passionate about creating inclusive outdoor spaces in our community. Her primary focus is on delivering workshops, but you will also see her connecting with our participants on program in Vancouver. 

If she’s not out exploring a new trail, you’ll likely find Marin with a good book, great music, and a cup of strong coffee. 

Mike grew up in southern Ontario but has now called Vancouver Island home for over 15 years. He has had the pleasure of splitting his time between Victoria and Quadra Island for the last 4 years, which has allowed him to do the things he loves such as rock climbing, sea kayaking, trail running, and spending time in the mountains.

Mike has a Level 2 Lead Guide certification with the Sea Kayak Guides Alliance of BC; as well as certifications in wilderness first aid, marine radio operation, and Adventure Tourism. Mike became a guide because he believes in the importance of being connected with nature and that everyone should be given the chance to create that connection. His values and passion for healing in nature, are what brought him to Power to Be.

Growing up, Mitch’s favourite place to be was in the garden digging holes. This deep love of dirt and mud broadened into an overall love for all things found in nature and eventually led Mitch into caves. It was in a passage called Twist and Shout that they learned that they could do more than they originally thought. All they needed was encouragement and support from a bunch of crazy cavers whose first response is “Let’s Do It!”. 

In a world full of no’s, Mitch wants to be a voice that can say YES! Working at Power To Be has provided them with ample opportunity to say yes, and share their love of the outdoors with everyone. 

From settler ancestry, Myah (she/her) grew up in a coastal community in Mi’kma’ki (Nova Scotia), the unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq people. Along those rugged shorelines, she found adventure, belonging, and solace in nature. Inspired by childhood experiences in nature-based programming and social justice values, Myah pursued an undergraduate degree in Community Development and Environmental Studies through Acadia University. She has worked in the outdoor sector as both an adventure guide and nature-based programmer in multiple facets and has enjoyed working as an education assistant and behaviour interventionist. Myah is passionate about the role that connection with nature can play in fostering healthier relationships with one’s self, others, and the environment, and holds this philosophy as a driving force behind her work. When Myah is not in program, she is most likely training her dogs Tempo and Keji and enjoying local natural spaces with them in company.

Nick has a diverse collection of knowledge, skills, and abilities that makes him apt for designing, building, and managing construction projects. Thanks to his welding education at Camosun College and his experience as WildPlay’s Element Manager, Nick can design and build things he need resourcefully and usually with materials he has upcycled. Nick worked 8 years in adventure tourism, working his way up through a local company to eventually manage the development of technologies and processes for risk management, building and maintenance of adventure courses and ziplines, and the training and certification of guides.

Nick has been involved with Power To Be as a volunteer at the Power To Play events and in guiding Power To Be participants through adventure course experiences. Nick loves being outside, exploring the local mountains and forests through mountain biking, hiking, and climbing. In any adventure, you’ll find him exploring with his wife and their two dogs.

Oren grew up in Montreal, and has lived in quite a few cities and towns before landing on the island about 10 years ago. Having spent some very formative years guiding whitewater canoe trips in Quebec and Ontario, Oren has fostered an enduring love for nature, and has a profound appreciation for the impact it can have on those who are touched by it.

With a background in arts-based program development and promotion, outreach and communications, and graphic design, Oren strongly believes that words and images have the power to incite positive change and create lasting impact. He is driven by community-based organizing, continuous learning, and creating accessible and inclusive spaces, and is thrilled to be using his experience and skillset for a cause he holds so dear to his heart.

Oren lives with his partner, toddler, sweet anxious dog Ollie, and a tuxedo cat named Ro. When not at work, you can find him on a family hike (stroll), connecting with pals, fretting about the well-being of his houseplants, or dreaming of what’s to come.

Paul grew up connected to nature. Exploring the rolling countryside and tiny villages of the North Yorkshire Moors National Park in England, hiking and camping were always a passion for him. Nature has been a powerful healer and teacher for Paul, and through working in Outdoor Centres in England, and Adventure Operators in Canada, he was able to share his experience with others and coach them through challenges using nature as a co-facilitator. Over the years, Paul has gained qualifications in multiple land-based activities from rock climbing to caving and many in-between, and some water activities like canoeing and sailing. Paul has a love for adventures both underground and above ground, a hankering for Yorkshire puddings, and an itch for plucking the Ukulele.

Pete grew up in Brentwood Bay playing at the beach, on the water and roaming freely through the local parks. Through this he developed a deep love for wild spaces where he feels more at home than built human environments. Pete graduated from Lakehead University with a Honours bachelor of Outdoor Recreation and a Bachelor of Arts in Geography. Over the last 15 years he has built his experience working with children and youth in the outdoors. Pete is certified as a Sea kayak Level 3 guide and Guide trainer with the SKGABC, as well as other industry awards. Pete was inspired to join Power To Be to help provide quality experiences in the outdoors to those that have barriers for their participation.

Born and raised in New Zealand, Pāora’s life has always been connected to nature. Influenced by his Maori culture, he has sought out land and sea, learning about the geography and what lives within it. His path took him through the military, volunteer relief work, parenting, youth justice and physical literacy programs before arriving at Power To Be. With a respect for the natural world and his place within it, Pāora is inspired by adventure and the diversity of people he meets. In Maori language, a traditional greeting is “Kia Ora!” which means “Be full of life!” It’s a sentiment Pāora strives to embody in his actions and encourage in others.

Originally from Toronto, Sarah has called B.C. home since 2006. She is a passionate fundraiser for social change, with over 20 years of experience in the charity sector. Committed to work-life balance, Sarah enjoys travel, time spent with her kids and being active in the outdoors. She has a deep interest in outdoor education stemming from her early work with national and international youth serving organizations. Sarah graduated from Royal Roads University with an MA in Leadership and Training and a BA from Dalhousie University. For over a decade, Sarah worked with Parachute (previously SMARTRISK), raising funds for injury prevention.

Born and raised on Vancouver Island, Shardé’s work in Human Resources has followed naturally from her belief that working in this field is all about building stronger communities through authentic connections and clearly defined rules of engagement. She loves finding creative solutions to complex problems and building vibrant workplaces through structure, culture, training tools and resources that serve both leaders and their teams.  As the recipient of CPHR’s 2020 Rising Star award, Shardé is an award-winning HR professional. She has a post-degree diploma in human resource management and leadership, an undergraduate degree in psychology with a focus in human motivation, and a certificate in community leadership development. Shardé believes in building stronger communities by bringing people together.

Shawn was raised on Vancouver Island, graduated from UVic and subsequently spent 7 years working around Southeast Asia. His early professional years were spent teaching English in South Korea and Indonesia and later trying to alleviate poverty in the Philippines. Upon returning to Canada, Shawn did stints at UBC’s Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering and Royal Roads University before making the decision to leave office work to pursue what would become a passion for surfing and a desire to do active work that keeps him on his feet. Though he completed a B.A. in Pacific & Asian Studies and an M.Ed. in Distance Education & Training, he transitioned into building services work and feels fortunate to support programs at Power To Be by maintaining the beautiful buildings and grounds.

Sophia was raised in Toronto, ON and as a recovering indoor person, she is learning to love all the adventures and nature we have on the beautiful West Coast. Helping support the wonderful work Power To Be does, she is so inspired by our staff and vision to help break down barriers and give more people the opportunity to love the outdoors. Outside of work you can find her in art galleries, bird watching, and sewing!

Sydney’s deepest (literally and figuratively) connection with nature was in the Great Barrier Reef on a dive trip. She continued diving in her home state of Kentucky in little quarries, until it was time for university at UVIC, where she graduated to the beautiful and chilly waters of BC (and graduated with an English degree).

Before Power To Be, she held roles as a cupcake baker, event coordinator, account manager, and spa reservations agent, to name a few. This is her first time working at a non-profit and she is so genuinely thrilled to work for such an important cause that she has personally felt the effects of. She is driven by making a difference, connecting with her peers, and creativity. Sydney notes that if her role here means she can help to reach as many people as possible to find a program that makes their lives better, well then that is just the greatest thing she could ever strive and hope for.

When she’s not at work, Sydney can be found in the forest with her partner and her Texas husky mix Freya, cold plunging, flowing through a fiery vinyasa sequence, or some random new craft that she has decided is her life’s calling.

Hello, I am Sylvia Storry (she/her). I grew up with the lands and waterways stewarded by Tla’amin people. My ancestors are from Iceland and Scotland. Central to my nature-based practice, is deeply rooted respect and gratitude for relationship building through connection with the lands and waterways stewarded by Coast Salish people. I am anchored in the belief that connection and belonging are essential to wellbeing and healthy ecosystems. I strive to support youth and families through co-creating experiences that encourage opportunities for belonging with the people and places they connect with.

I have been supporting youth and families for more than two decades and have much reverence for the wisdom and expertise that individuals have of their own lived experiences. Formally, my education background includes an MA in Child and Youth Care from the University of Victoria and many years of crisis intervention and counselling training. When I am not at PTB you will most likely find me outside either with the trees or near the ocean. I look forward to meeting you soon!

After spending her childhood roaming the forests and mountains of the Canadian Rockies in Banff National Park, Tamara sailed around the world with Class Afloat where she developed a passion for people and cultures. In 2011 she moved out to Vancouver Island and fell in love with all that it has to offer.

Tamara’s passion for people and cultures was the catalyst to her educational journey. She has obtained a major in Recreation and Health Education, a minor in Anthropology and a PDD in Human Resource management. After 2 years with the Facilities & Assets team with Power To Be she is excitedly pursuing her HR goals with the People & Culture team. Tamara values equity, inclusion, and growth through curiosity and creativity. She fosters these values by striving to offer everyone access to the nature around them.

Chief Strategic Initiatives Officer, EDI Environmental Dynamics Inc.

Rahul is a stubbornly positive person that helps to build opportunity where he can. He has taken the long road to find what is truly important in his life, and hopes to share what he has learned as well as learn from those around him.

Rahul went to school for a long time obtaining three tangentially related natural science degrees. By day, he is the Chief Strategic Initiatives officer for a truly amazing environmental planning firm that was started in Prince George 30 years ago, but now has 9 offices across western and northern Canada. He helps build opportunity within the firm as well as seek collaboration opportunities with like-minded companies.

Rahul was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in 2006. Despite needing to adapt every aspect of his life, with the help of his amazing wife, three kids, and the cast of people he is lucky enough to call friends, he has found a way to live a truly amazing existence.

Finance Director, MdGB Capital

Lauren was born and raised on Vancouver Island. Supporting a local non-profit, particularly one that directly supports people in her community, was an obvious choice for her. She has experience with working with NPOs in her career and is an active volunteer on boards and committees of non-profits in Victoria. Lauren is a Chartered Professional Accountant and it is important to her to use her skills and experience to give back to the community. Lauren likes to travel and spend time with her friends and family, especially if it involves physical activity.

Adam has called Victoria home for over 25 years, ever since moving here from Vancouver to attend the University of Victoria where he completed a Bachelor of Commerce degree. He and his wife enjoy living on Vancouver Island and spending time in nature with their 4 kids. Adam’s youngest son has Down syndrome and with that comes cognitive and physical barriers that he will have to overcome his entire life. Adam says that the accessibility and support that Power To Be offers is incredibly meaningful. Adam says he can’t understate how helpful it is to a family dealing with barriers when something thought to be prohibitively difficult becomes not only possible, but easy; a weight is truly lifted from the parent’s shoulders.

Adam and his wife try to teach their kids to be respectful citizens and custodians of our planet; to be accepting and inclusive; to be good people and do good for others. Adam tries to role model these values and wants to give back to his community and be part of something that he knows is impactful.

Professionally, Adam is a Senior Private Banker at BMO Private Wealth where he works closely with families and family office teams for banking, financing, and wealth planning, a conversation that often involves philanthropy. Adam previously held roles at BMO in commercial banking where he worked with organizations and businesses across many different sectors, and so brings his 20 years of finance experience to the Power To Be board and committees he sits on.

Andrea has spent her career in sports and physical activity, working across various systems to create better inclusion for those who face barriers. Currently, she is Co-Founder and current Executive Director of OneAbility, Chief INclusion Officer with INclusion INcorporated, and holds a Masters of Education in Leadership, and is a Canadian Certified Inclusion Professional and Certified Executive Coach. She strives to create access and equity for everyone by building communities, spaces and places where people can be themselves.

Andrea grew up on Ktunaxa lands, nestled between the Rocky Mountains and the Purcell Mountains, where her love for nature began. She spends time outdoors by going hiking, mountain biking, participating in triathlons and more! She is a mother, a partner, a daughter, a sister and a friend.

Chief Administrative Officer, Village of Salmo
James grew up in national parks enjoying just about any mountain activity, and has been a Vancouver program volunteer with Power To Be since 2017. He holds a BSc in Kinesiology from the University of Calgary, a Law degree from UBC, and a Masters Degree in Public Administration from Dalhousie University. James brings his professional experience, and deep understanding of not for profit governance, including sitting on the North Van Recreation Commission and the Kootenay Adaptive Sport Boards. He recognizes that access to the outdoors is crucial to well-being, and is excited to contribute to an organization that creates access to these natural spaces and new opportunities for the community.

Mary Lou is the co-owner of Mayfair Optometric Clinic, where she partners with Dr. Stephen Taylor to provide exceptional eye care services. As a dedicated community champion, Mary Lou has cultivated an extensive network within the Greater Victoria area, leveraging her connections to foster community engagement and support.

Mary Lou’s passion for Power To Be is deeply rooted and multi-faceted. During her studies at Royal Roads University, she earned a Graduate Certificate in Values-Based Leadership, which included an in-depth case study of Power To Be. This experience allowed her to gain a profound appreciation for the organization’s mission and the work they do to ensure everyone can enjoy nature, regardless of any barriers they may face.

Outside of her professional and volunteer commitments, Mary Lou is an avid dog lover. She cherishes her time outdoors with her beloved furry companion, Arch-EE. Whether hiking, exploring local parks, or simply enjoying a peaceful walk, Mary Lou finds joy and inspiration in nature.

Mary Lou is enthusiastic about raising awareness about Power To Be and its initiatives, and is devoted to spreading this message far and wide.

Communications Director, BC Ministry of Environment & Climate Change

Paul is a communications leader with a deep commitment to strategy and story. He has worked in media, public service and universities. He holds a Diploma of Technology, Broadcast Journalism from BCIT and a BA in Communications from Carleton University. He and his partner are raising four active and community minded children. Paul volunteers on island based social enterprises focusing on community health and the environment. He has served on boards for the West Shore Chamber of Commerce, the Saskatchewan Science Centre and Kramer IMAX Theatre. Biking makes his world go around.

Tim has been involved in youth work and the non-profit sector for nearly 30 years. Initially supporting young adults with disabilities at a summer camp as a teenager, Tim’s passion for the outdoors and supporting others led to a leadership program at Yamnuska Mountaineering School in Canmore, Alberta. This is where the inspiration came to help youth and families living with barriers climb their own mountains. With the help of a small government grant in 1998, the Power To Be adventure began and has grown to reach more than 8,000 youth and families to date. Maintaining an avid love of the outdoors, adventure and humanitarian work, Tim’s recent highlights include climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro and travelling to support Haiti relief. His greatest accolade, among many in recent years, came in 2011 when he received the British Columbia Community Achievement Award from the lieutenant-governor of B.C.