Meet Our Awesome Team

Manager, Youth Engagement

Born and raised by the north shore of Lake Superior where she still calls home, Mackenzie has fostered her appreciation of the interconnectedness of nature into a career in conservation. She brought to Invasives Canada, 8 years of experience working with forest pests in Ontario, many of those spent at the nonprofit level designing and implementing tailored invasive species training and outreach programs for youth, professionals, and the general public. She specialized in Ecology, Evolution, and Behaviour at the University of Ottawa and has a Professional Certificate in Environmental Management from Seneca College. Mackenzie is a mom to a future naturalist who inspires her every day to lead the next generation of land stewards.

Quebec

I’m so excited to be the Youth Eco-Stewards Program Coordinator here in beautiful Quebec—my home and the place where my love for nature first took hold. Growing up in the Eastern Townships fostered a deep appreciation for all things green, growing, and wild – a sentiment that continues to this day.

With over seven years in conservation—from raising butterflies to researching bears—I’ve followed my curiosity and my belief that caring for nature and for each other are mutually beneficial. I’ve worked on research projects, led education programs, and supported community-driven environmental initiatives and I’m excited to keep doing that here. When I’m not out in the field or dreaming up new ideas, you’ll probably find me in my garden, experimenting with fermentation projects, or starting a new art project.

I believe that real change happens when we come together with curiosity, compassion, and a willingness to get our hands dirty. I’m here to co-create engaging spaces where we can learn, explore, and take meaningful action for our communities and ecosystems. Let’s dig in!

The Maritimes

Nikki McIntyre (she/her) – is originally from Southwestern Ontario and has had the opportunity to live and work across the country, from Newfoundland and British Columbia to her current home in Halifax, NS. She holds a B.A. in Geography and Sociology from the Memorial University of Newfoundland and an M.A. in Geography from Brock University, where her research explored intersections of sustainability in Algonquin Provincial Park. Nikki is passionate about creating accessible opportunities for people, especially youth, to feel connected to their environments. Her past work includes supporting youth-led climate action projects, contributing to community resource planning, and as a paddle instructor. Outside of work, you can find her kayaking, reading a good book, or planning her next adventure – ideally one that involves being outside and on the water.

Ontario

I’m Amanda (she/her), and I’m excited to be the Ontario Youth Coordinator at Invasives Canada. Growing up in Ottawa, some of my earliest memories involve catching frogs and swimming in the lake near my home with my two siblings. Being immersed in nature shaped my identity and inspired me to pursue environmental sciences and sustainable agriculture at Trent University.

After completing my degree and returning to Ottawa, I found that the lake I once swam in as a child no longer resembled the place I remembered, Blue-green algae blooms and aquatic invaders now line its shores. Witnessing these changes fueled my passion for aquatic management, leading me to work in Banff National Park and with Ocean Wise on marine conservation initiatives. Now, I’m thrilled to be working with Invasives Canada, where I can continue advocating for environmental stewardship and sustainable solutions.

I look forward to connecting with everyone as we foster meaningful relationships, and inspiring action. I’m excited to work together to protect our ecosystems and share our passion for conservation!

The Prairies

I’m Bryanne and I’m thrilled to be a part of the Youth Eco Stewards team as a Youth Coordinator for the Prairies Region! I was born and raised in Alberta and hold a Bachelor of Science in Geography. Previously I’ve worked within the environmental consulting industry and non-profit sector. I find a lot of joy in exploring the outdoors, taking care of my house plants, and picking up a good book in almost any genre.

What I’m looking forward to most about the Youth Eco Stewards program is empowering youth to discover what environmental campaigns excite them and spreading awareness about invasive species!