CHAIR

I've been involved in supporting forest and marine ecosystem protection in BC since moving to the west coast after university. Vancouver's beaches, shorelines and oceans are an incredible privilege to enjoy. We have a responsibility to ensure that they continue to thrive for all the creatures that depend on them and for the generations ahead of us to inherit. Let's leave things better than we found them!

I split my time between Vancouver and Pemberton with my wife and two sons. I love spending time outdoors paddling, camping, hiking, biking, skiing, playing frisbee, or enjoying those sublime west coast sunsets and waves.

CO-VICE CHAIR

An outdoor enthusiast with a sustainability background, I’m all about nature. Nature’s been my sidekick forever. But the real game-changer? Living on a sailboat. The maritime lifestyle got me into surfing and diving, making them my jam and taking my love for the ocean to a whole new level. The rhythmic dance of waves and the mysterious depths below became my playground, nurturing a sense of awe and respect that has fueled my dedication to protecting these vital ecosystems. I advocate for conservation, striving to reduce plastic waste and promote innovative solutions that safeguard the oceans.

Besides ocean vibes, I am all about hiking, mountain biking, snowboarding, running, traveling, and going on adventures with my dog Marat.

TREASURER

I’m passionate about the ocean because: I’ve always lived near the ocean along the West Coast and almost all of my fondest and most cherished moments have been on a beach. I am happiest whenever I’m in the sunshine and water. Making sure that our beaches, oceans, rivers, and lakes are able to be enjoyed by my children and future generations is important to me and I firmly believe even the smallest efforts can make a difference and spark change.

Interests: I enjoy all things food and drink related. I also have a passion for music, film and TV. If you can combine all of that on a beach on a hot summer’s day, I’m in heaven on Earth. But if all else fails, a funny cat or fluffy cow video will bring a smile to my face.

SECRETARY

Having had the privilege to be born and raised in Vancouver, BC, I have always felt a deep connection with the ocean. I hold 2 Diplomas in Business Admin and Legal Admin, as well as completion of Paralegal Studies at Vancouver Community College. I am an Administrative Assistant for a Labour Union by day, full time mother by night, and swimmer whenever I get the chance. I hold 2 patents published on the internet for kids’ accessories. I made a strong career change recently and decided to prioritize my work life balance, part of that is doing things that feel good for the soul, which inspired me to be part of this amazing movement. I speak French fluently, mother was from Bordeaux, France and Father is from the Island of Trinidad located in the Caribbean.

Hobbies include performing arts, dancing, swimming, ghost hunting with my child at local haunted spots, beachcombing, stargazing and astrology.

VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR

Danielle’s love for the sea is ancestral. Her mother’s family has fishing roots on a small island where they used to provide fish to the villagers and her father was a scuba diver and spearfisherman who used to take their family boating around BC waters. She started her career working in fashion and action sports, which led to her taking a role with Roxy at Quiksilver.

Working in surf and growing up on the coast allowed her to spend time exploring the ocean’s surface by fishing, surfing and boating until her brother introduced her to spearfishing off the Colombian coast – a transformative experience that both humbled her and unveiled a breathtaking underwater realm. That was the catalyst - the moment that she knew that she wanted to see more. She then spent a few years learning how to freedive in different countries, bringing her daughter Rio along as her adventure partner, taking her to scuba dive at 10 years old. This life spent underwater showed Danielle that everywhere she went, it’s sadly all the same - our oceans are dying and need our help. She now works for the first Climate Neutral Certified company in cannabis and was part of the team that launched the first home compostable package in the Canadian market.

COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR

My profound love for the Pacific Northwest coastline is the driving force behind my involvement with Surfrider. Originally from Alberta, I relocated to BC over a decade ago to pursue a life in more mellow temperatures and quickly made it my personal mission to explore every beach that I could get to. After countless coastal adventures, I began to recognize the serious environmental challenges threatening our aquatic habitats. Through education, advocacy, and hands-on initiatives, I hope to do my part in preserving our most vital ecosystems.

In a professional setting, I work alongside prominent individuals acting as their right hand. I have honed a particular skill set throughout my career, and I am continuously grateful for the opportunities, experiences, and achievements gained. In my free time, you might find me on the seawall with my dog, or you might not find me at all… I am probably out of cell service in the middle of the water, tucked between the trees, or on a long stretch of highway.