Showy lady's-slipper orchid, Wallwork Nature Reserve
Our talented staff is dedicated to the protection of wild species and wild spaces. Together, with our members and supporters, we are the voice for nature in this beautiful province. We follow a credible, science-based approach to conservation and are committed to act with integrity.
Andrés Jiménez Monge – Executive Director
Andrés is a Costa Rican-Canadian biologist with 15+ years of experience in conservation, philanthropy and environmental innovation. He has led land stewardship at Ducks Unlimited Canada in Ontario, managed a national conservation portfolio at the Weston Family Foundation, and created Ontario’s first Indigenous-led bird guide at Birds Canada. He holds a MES from York University with an emphasis in Business and Sustainability from the Schulich School of Business. Andrés enjoys nature-finding with his kids and is learning Anishinaabe Mowin.
Caroline Schultz – Strategic Advisor
Caroline grew up in Ireland with a family that loved exploring nature, especially along the southwest’s wild Atlantic coast. She has over 30 years of experience in developing and leading conservation initiatives involving science, land securement, stewardship, and advocacy in Canada and the Americas. Caroline started her career as an ecologist, and quickly expanded her interests to organizational development and multi-partner collaboratives to achieve tangible on-the-ground conservation results. Caroline completed an M.Sc. in ecology at the University of Toronto and a Master of management degree at McGill University.
Sarah Hedges (she/her) – Managing Director
Sarah manages day-to-day operations to ensure that Ontario Nature achieves its objectives and mission. She joined Ontario Nature in August 2010 and holds a B.Sc. in environmental science from Queen’s University and a graduate diploma in social responsibility & sustainability from the University of St. Michael’s college in the University of Toronto. Her previous roles at Ontario Nature include managing and coordinating several conservation and education programs. Sarah spends her free time at family cottages in Bancroft and Gananoque.
A.J. Pilobello (he/him) – Finance Director
A.J. is a Chartered Professional Accountant with a background in commerce and economics. He first joined Ontario Nature in 2019 and rejoined in 2024. He has previously worked for non-profit organizations in the environmental, international development, and mental health sectors. He has also volunteered in the non-profit sector serving as a treasurer, board member and school mentor.
Lisa Martell (she/her) – Executive Coordinator
Lisa is a graduate of Fleming College’s fish and wildlife technician program. Her enthusiasm for nature and wildlife started when she interned at the Toronto Wildlife Centre in high school and went on to volunteer as a wildlife rehabilitator in places as far as Perth, Australia and Edmonton, Alberta. Her true passion for ornithology emerged through her experience with the Prince Edward Point Bird Observatory as the assistant bander and later volunteering as the secretary on the board of directors. In her spare time, she likes to cozy up to a new crochet project or book as well as explore nature with her husband and dog.
Kamran Minai (he/him) – Administrative Coordinator
Kamran is a conservationist with a keen interest in the challenges involving nature conservation and development. Prior to joining Ontario Nature, he worked in the environment sector overseas mainly coordinating environmental assessments and biodiversity action plans in diverse ecosystems. In his spare time, he enjoys exploring natural areas and training dogs.
Penny He – Accounting Assistant
Penny graduated from York University with a master’s degree in financial accountability. With a background as an Accounting Analyst in the renewable energy and golfing industries, she brings a unique blend of experience and enthusiasm to this role. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring nature through hiking and cherishes quality time spent with family.
Conservation and Education
Smera Sukumar (she/her) – Conservation Science and Stewardship Director
Smera directs the Nature Reserves, Conservation Science and Education programs. She joined the team in 2016 and holds a MSc in biodiversity and conservation from the University of Leeds and a BSc in zoology from the University of Guelph. Smera works closely with volunteers, conservation partners, and researchers to deliver collaborative projects across both programs. Her love of Ontario’s wild species and spaces and the diversity of people and cultures in this province shape all aspects of her work. Smera has lived in four countries and travelled to over 40. In her spare time, she enjoys exploring the outdoors, cooking, dancing, and cozying up with her cat.
Tony Morris – Conservation Policy and Campaigns Director
Tony joined Ontario Nature in 2024. He holds a MES from York University, where he focused on biodiversity policy in Ontario, and a B.A from Trent University with a joint major in Environmental Studies and Political Studies. Tony has over 10 years of professional experience with various government departments and agencies in Ontario and the Northwest Territories. He has a strong background in environmental policy, strategic planning, and land use and watershed planning at the provincial and municipal level. Outside of Ontario Nature, Tony enjoys cycling, reading, cooking, and exploring new places.
Christine Ambre (she/they) – Education Manager
Christine started volunteering with Ontario Nature in spring 2015 transcribing data for the Ontario Reptile and Amphibian Atlas and joined the team that fall. Now the organization’s Education Manager, she oversees the Nature Guardians Youth Program, including the Youth Council and Youth Circle for Mother Earth projects. Christine grew up with a love of the outdoors and nature, which eventually led her to take a B.Sc. in earth sciences from the University of Waterloo. She has extensive experience working with youth at summer camp and volunteering with other environmental non-profits. Outside of Ontario Nature, Christine is a part-time video game brand ambassador, enjoys exploring the outdoors and is usually found sipping bubble tea around the city.
Marcus Maddalena (he/him) – Nature Reserves Manager
Marcus joined Ontario Nature as the Nature Reserves Manager in 2023. He holds both a Bachelors and Masters of Environmental Studies from the University of Waterloo and a Diploma in Ecological Restoration and Rehabilitation. Marcus has extensive experience in the conservation and rehabilitation of rare species populations and their habitats. Outside of Ontario Nature, you can find Marcus at the rock climbing gym that he co-owns, somewhere in a canoe, or on a trail with his dogs.
Jenna Quinn (she/her) – Conservation Science Manager
Jenna joined Ontario Nature in early 2023, bringing over a decade of experience in the non-profit conservation sector. She holds a B.Sc in zoology from Laurentian University, a M.Sc in biology from Mount Allison University, and a M.Ed from Western University in curriculum development. Jenna is passionate about working in collaboration with others to tackle land stewardship, research, and conservation initiatives that advance protection of natural spaces in Ontario. She has extensive experience working in multi-partner research collaborations, conducting long-term ecological monitoring, and supporting community science initiatives. Jenna spends her free time volunteering with Waterloo Region Nature, playing games with friends and family, and cheering on the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Shane Moffatt (he/him) – Conservation Campaigns and Advocacy Manager
Shane is a settler living in Tkaronto (Toronto) on the traditional territory of many nations including the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishnabeg, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee and the Wendat peoples. He has been advocating for environmental justice for almost twenty years and holds an LLM from the University of Toronto. Shane was previously head of Greenpeace Canada’s nature campaign and has extensive experience advocating for legislative reforms, supporting impacted communities and empowering the public to act. Shane is an avid hiker and is frequently found exploring the forests and wetlands of Southern Ontario with his partner.
Brittney Vezina (she/her) – Protected Places Coordinator
Brittney started as a volunteer with Ontario Nature in 2018, working on the Ontario Reptile and Amphibian Atlas. She holds a B.Sc. in zoology from the University of Guelph and an M.Sc. in conservation biology from the University of Kent. She has extensive experience in the conservation sector, including bird and bat monitoring in Ontario, grassland songbird research in Alberta and rural development research in Madagascar. Brittney has a strong interest in the human dimensions of conservation and believes conservation success is rooted in education, science and working collaboratively with community members. In her spare time, Brittney enjoys hiking, camping, knitting and seeing live music.
Tharanya Ravikumaran – Stewardship Coordinator, Nature Reserves
Prior to working at Ontario Nature, Tharanya worked at Conservation Halton, Hamilton Conservation Authority, Toronto Region Conservation Authority, and Ontario Streams. She has a B.A. in bio-resource management (majored in Environmental Management) from the University of Guelph and has completed the ecosystem restoration program at Niagara College. Tharanya is proficient at Ecological Land Classification, Ecological Monitoring and Assessment Network, habitat restoration, species at risk monitoring and invasive species management. She enjoys exploring the outdoors and trying out new food spots all over the GTA with friends and family.
Jenna Kip (she/her) – Protected Places Coordinator
Jenna joined Ontario Nature in the summer of 2021. Her work supports the Protected Places Campaign by providing visual communication of significant environmental features and conducting spatial analyses of protected places. She has graduated from the ecosystem management technology environmental program at Fleming College and has earned a B.Sc. in environmental science from Trent University. Jenna has a deep passion for wildlife and the environment and can always be found in nature where she enjoys camping, cooking over fires, hiking and wildlife photography.
Graeme Smith (he/him) – GIS Coordinator
Graeme joined Ontario Nature in 2021. He was born and raised in Waterloo, where he looked for any opportunity to be out in nature. He has completed a B.Sc. in biology at Laurentian University and a M.Sc. in environmental and life sciences at Trent University. His M.Sc. research focused on identifying suitable habitat for endangered salamanders on Pelee Island as well as locations for habitat restoration. In his spare time, he enjoys reading, playing board games and exploring the outdoors.
Melissa Thomas – Research Coordinator, Nature Reserves
Melissa holds a B.E.S. in environmental studies and geography from York University, and a diploma in ecosystem restoration from Niagara College. She has worked as a Wildlife Technician with a focus on Ontario’s reptiles and amphibians, and as a songbird rehabilitator at the Toronto Wildlife Centre. Melissa has a passion for education and engagement, and has worked in multiple outreach and education roles. When she’s not exploring nature, she’s reading or practicing dance.
Sarah Hasenack (she/her) – Conservation Campaigns Coordinator
Sarah joined Ontario Nature in the spring of 2022 after completing her M.Sc. in Environmental Sciences and B.Sc. in Ecology, both at the University of Guelph. Prior to her formal education, she grew up learning to love and respect nature during countless family camping, hiking, and canoeing trips all around Ontario. She has a passion for the conservation and protection of nature, and recognizes the importance of finding innovative ways of allowing humans and nature to coexist. In her free time, Sarah can often be found wandering local parks and hiking trails looking for birds, creating nature-inspired watercolour paintings, or cooking a delicious meal.
Teagan Netten – Conservation Science Coordinator
Teagan joined Ontario Nature in April 2022, after finishing her B.Sc. in conservation biology and evolutionary anthropology at the University of Toronto. During her degree, she conducted a research project on red-backed salamanders. She grew up spending lots of time in nature, but only discovered her passion for studying reptiles and amphibians in university. She has experience working in the parks sector, including bat and reptile monitoring, habitat restoration, and science communication. Outside of work, Teagan loves reading, wildlife photography, hiking and gardening.
Kellsie Bonnyman (she/they) – Protected Places Assessment Coordinator
Kellsie joined Ontario Nature in 2023 to support the Protected Places team towards meeting national goals to protect 30% of land and water by 2030. Prior to joining, she completed a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science and Studies (B.E.S.S.) at Trent University. She also holds a diploma in Ecosystem Management and an Indigenous Designations certificate from Fleming College. Kellsie participated in the South Africa semester abroad as a Conservation Intern, and has experience working on ecological restoration projects, sustainable agriculture farms, biomonitoring, and organizing environmental campaigns. In Kellsie’s spare time, they enjoy photography, canoeing, birding, and playing guitar.
Emily Green – Education Coordinator
Emily joined the Ontario Nature team in June 2024 as the Education Coordinator with experience in environmental education and youth programming. Emily holds a BA in Environmental Studies and a Political Science Minor from Wilfrid Laurier University. A lifelong learner, Emily is working towards a Horticulture Diploma at the University of Guelph and volunteers with the Waterloo Horticultural Society to supplement her learning. In her spare time, Emily enjoys birdwatching, volunteering with the Canadian Wildlife Federation’s youth program, gardening on her balcony, and photographing wildlife.
Tarun Titus (he/him) – Protected Places Assistant
Growing up in Jakarta, Indonesia, Tarun was immersed in the wonderful nature of tropical rainforests and coral reefs. From a young age he grew a passion for wildlife preservation and conservation. He continued his interests when he came to Canada to study at the University of Toronto, where he earned a BSc in biology and psychology. In his free time, Tarun loves to explore nature, go birding, find great food places with friends, and support his favourite sports team, Liverpool FC.
Rylee Goerlitz (she/her) – Nature Reserves GIS Technician
Rylee holds a Bachelor of Science from Brock University and a diploma in Ecosystem Management from Fleming College. During her studies at Fleming, Rylee developed an interest in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), which led her to pursue the Application Specialist Program. She has worked with local land trusts, conservation authorities, and the Nature Conservancy of Canada as a GIS Technician. These roles have allowed Rylee to blend her passion for maps with her commitment to environmental conservation.
Megan Stickle – Atlas-3 Field Biologist
Megan grew up in rural eastern Ontario, where her love for the natural world first took root. She holds a B.Sc. in biology and environmental science from McMaster University, where she developed a passion for herpetology through her Honours project studying Jefferson Salamander habitat. Megan has worked on a variety of conservation-focused projects across the parks system and in the private sector, with a special focus on reptiles, amphibians, and birds. Outside of work, Megan enjoys hiking, exploring nature, spending time with friends, and relaxing with a good book on rainy days.
Baylana Hiebert – Atlas-3 Field Technician
Baylana recently graduated from the University of Manitoba with a Bachelor of Environmental Science, where she developed a passion for ecosystem research through her honours thesis project studying bird-mediated seed dispersal. She has previously done work with plant and bird species at risk, and has enjoyed volunteering as an assistant bird bander every fall. In her free time she likes to read and spend time outside hiking and birding.
Erik Kieboom – Atlas-3 Field Technician
Erik grew up in the countryside near Owen Sound, where he discovered that he had a strong interest in the natural world, especially birds and herps. Erik completed his undergraduate degree in environmental science last year at the University of Guelph, majoring in ecology. In the past he has worked with a number of conservation organizations, monitoring SAR reptile and bird populations. In his spare time he enjoys birding, herping, hiking, and biking.
Jason Smrylis – Atlas-3 Field Technician
Jason graduated with an honours bachelor’s degree in Conservation Biology from Trent University and later obtained a diploma in Fish and Wildlife Management from Sir Sandford Fleming College. He has worked with the Piping Plover team at Ontario Parks and the Eastern Whip-poor-will team for the Ministry of Natural Resources. A passionate bird watcher and naturalist from a young age, Jason continues to embrace his love for nature during his days off by kayaking, snorkeling, biking, and hiking.
Maud Ioannidis – Nature Reserves Intern
Maud has a Fish and Wildlife diploma from Fleming College and has experience in bird banding, species at risk monitoring, colonial waterbird management, invasive species management, vegetation surveys, and more. Maud lives in the East end of Toronto and enjoys exploring the parks near home and gets out of the city to camp or visit cottages as much as possible. Outside of work you will find her birdwatching, hiking, swimming and reading.
Ethan Owen – Conservation Science Intern
Ethan is an early-career scientist specializing in terrestrial ecology and reptile conservation. He holds a B.Sc. in Environmental Biology from York University, where his honours research examined how foundational shrubs influence reptile and amphibian biodiversity in Southern California. Currently completing his M.Sc. at York University, he is studying the population density, prey preferences, and habitat use of stinkpot turtles in Central Texas. Ethan has contributed to conservation and outreach through his involvement with the Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas and the North American Freshwater Turtle Research Group. In his free time, he enjoys herping, birding, and fishing with his dad.
Nava Brimble – Nature Reserves Intern
Nava grew up in Dundas on Between the Lakes treaty land where they developed a deep appreciation and curiosity for nature. They followed that curiosity to the University of Guelph where they obtained their B.Sc. in biodiversity. Nava has a keen interest in botany and has stewarded and studied plants from the Carolinian forests of Southern Ontario up to the Boreal of the Northwest Territories on Treaty 8. When not in the field you can find Nava rock climbing, biking, learning a new craft or instrument, or catching up with friends.
Marcellinus Essah – Endangered Species Intern
Marcellinus is a Ph.D. candidate and course instructor in the Department of Geography and Planning. He holds a master’s degree in environmental studies from York University, Toronto, and a bachelor’s degree in Geography and Sociology, also from the University of Ghana. Broadly, he is interested in the Political economy/ecology of food and agriculture; nature conservation; sustainable development and sustainable livelihoods; and natural resources extraction. Marcellinus has a wealth of experience in conservation leadership and project management. He is working with Ontario Nature as the endangered species intern for the next three months. In his free time, Marcellinus loves to watch soccer, basketball, and athletics. Marcellinus’ favourite sports teams are Liverpool and AC Milan.
Luke Bondi – Protected Places Intern
Growing up between the mountains and the ocean in Vancouver B.C., Luke developed a deep love for nature that shaped his passion for environmental conservation. He holds an MA in Political Science from York University where he studied the political economy of the environment in Mexico’s petroleum and mining sectors, with an emphasis on sustainable development and indigenous land rights. His research fuels his commitment to equitable and impactful conservation policies. When he’s not advocating for nature, you’ll likely find Luke exploring Toronto’s urban green spaces, camera in hand, or brushing up on his Spanish.
Communications and Engagement
John Hassell (he/him) – Director of Communications and Engagement Editor, ON Nature magazine
John joined Ontario Nature in 2009. Along with his role in communications, he is the editor of ON Nature – Ontario Nature’s award-winning magazine. John has an M.A. in international development studies with research focusing on sustainable, community-based forestry and a B.A. in political science. He has worked in the non-profit sector for more than 15 years. John is a founding director of ReachUp, a charity that promotes healthy lifestyles in under-resourced communities. A sports nut, John has represented Canada at ultimate frisbee competitions. He loves wilderness expeditions with his wife and young son, AJ, and is fulfilled by his job helping protect the natural areas they explore.
Melina Damian (she/her) – Communications Manager
Along with her role with Ontario Nature, Melina also teaches a course at Centennial College on energy, environment and sustainable development. She has a MES from York University and a graduate diploma in environmental education, and her research focused on wildlife and macro-debris pollution. She has worked and volunteered for several environmental organizations including Wildlife Preservation Canada, Toronto Wildlife Centre, FoodShare, York Sustainable Enterprise Consultants and the Canadian Organization for Tropical Education and Rainforest Conservation. In her spare time, she enjoys reading and dancing.
Irene Milani – Database Coordinator
Irene oversees Ontario Nature’s growing member and donor database. Previously, Irene held various positions at the Waterfront Regeneration Trust, including natural heritage coordinator, project manager and special assistant to the Honorable David Crombie. Irene has a B.A. in urban studies and sociology.
Lesley Rudy (she/her) – Nature Network Organizer
Lesley joined Ontario Nature in 2022. She holds a B.Sc. in Biology from the University of Guelph, a diploma in Ecosystem Management from Fleming College and an M.Sc. in Biology from Queen’s University. She has diverse work experience including roles with government and not-for-profits in stewardship, conservation and granting. She has been active in a turtle conservation and research project in Kingston and area since 2016. She is a member of Kingston area nature groups and enjoys running, cycling, swimming, camping, hiking and gardening.
Noah Cole (he/him) – Communications Technician
Noah has worked for Ontario Nature since 2011. He supports Ontario Nature’s communications team with web design, programming, outreach, photo research and day-to-day operations. He has earned certification in non-profit and voluntary sector management from Toronto Metropolitan University. Noah obtained a B.A. from the University of Guelph and refined his craft at The Western Academy of Photography. Noah is the author of Ontario Wildlife Photography published by Dundurn Press, a regular contributor to ON Nature magazine, a nature photographer and an accomplished naturalist. Noah is a philanthropist, an environmentalist, also a jogger, a self-taught saxophonist and loves the great outdoors.
Erin Kobayashi – Communications Coordinator
Erin brings a solid background in social media storytelling, journalism and environmental advocacy to Ontario Nature. Some of her relevant experience includes working in photo editing and social media at Dotdash Meredith’s sustainability brand, Treehugger, coordinating social media efforts for the Green Party of Ontario’s Hamilton candidates, writing for the Toronto Star, and volunteering for Hamilton 350. Erin holds degrees from the Indigenous Studies program at the University of Toronto and also has a degree in Journalism from Toronto Metropolitan University. In her spare time she enjoys reading, going on nature walks with her dog, Luna, and growing flowers and vegetables in her community garden.
Membership and Development
Kirsten Dahl (she/her) – Director of Development
Kirsten developed a love of nature and the outdoors spending summers at her cottage in Muskoka. She studied sociology at the University of Western Ontario and spent the better part of a decade living in different countries including Peru, Taiwan, Australia, New Zealand and the UK. Since returning home, Kirsten has worked in the environmental sector with Greenpeace and the Nature Conservancy of Canada. She loves cross-country skiing in Algonquin Park, walking her dog in the woods, cycling through the wilds of Toronto and any chance to explore Ontario Nature’s nature reserves (12 and counting!).
Lisa Kamenar (she/her) – Annual Fund Manager
Lisa joined Ontario Nature in February 2022. Her love of the outdoors was developed early in life while growing up on a farm in southwestern Ontario. She has a degree in Business from Wilfrid Laurier University and has worked in the non-profit sector for over 15 years. She enjoys sports (especially baseball and basketball!), reading and exploring the great outdoors.
Hayley Raymond (she/they) – Membership Coordinator
Hayley joined Ontario Nature in September 2022. She developed a love of nature and the outdoors while growing up in northern Ontario. Hayley studied Canadian Studies at Trent University and Arts Administration at Humber College. In her spare time, she is an avid knitter and enjoys looking for birds while walking her dog and spending time at her family’s cabin in Temagami in the summer.
Kayla Salive (she/her) – Grants and Donor Stewardship Coordinator
Kayla joined Ontario Nature in May 2021. Her love of nature started early, growing up with a family cottage on Pelee Island – a biodiversity hotspot in Ontario. After being inspired by the flora and fauna, Kayla pursued a B.Sc. in biology and later an M.Sc. in integrative biology with a focus on conservation biology. While working as a research assistant at Wilfrid Laurier University, Kayla’s work focused on assessing the threats and mitigation for a wetland plant species at risk in southwestern Ontario. In her down time, she loves to go hiking with her dogs and use nature to inspire her paintings.
Jennifer Ho (she/her) – Program Funding Coordinator
Growing up in the city of Hong Kong, Jennifer’s love of nature stems from watching David Attenborough’s documentaries. The wonders of the natural world have led her to pursue a B.A. and later a M.A. in environmental science with a focus on biodiversity conservation. Prior to joining Ontario Nature, she has worked as a research assistant in a tropical conservation biology lab studying the impact of light pollution on moth diversity in Hong Kong, communicated different environmental issues with the public while working as a gallery facilitator at the Royal Ontario Museum, and volunteered at the Jane Goodall Institute of Canada to help raise environmental awareness. In her spare time, she enjoys baking and exploring the world of food photography.
You can find employment opportunities with Ontario Nature on our Jobs webpage.
Please only handle wildlife if you have the proper training and permits unless you are helping the species off a roadway.