Hello, I'm Jay!

From a young age, I’ve been deeply committed to working with young people. I started at 12 years old, diving into coaching, babysitting, and any opportunity I could find to engage with kids. This passion has evolved into over 13 years of experience working with teens and young adults in post-secondary education and non-profit contexts. My dedication to supporting youth is rooted in a belief that fostering growth and self-discovery is vital to their development.

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My journey towards integrating this passion with nature began with my personal exploration of decolonization. I realized that my previous relationship with the land was shaped by an impersonal, extraction-based perspective. To truly decolonize my mind, I needed to build a new, reciprocal relationship with the natural world. This realization guided me towards the forest school setting, where I saw an opportunity to align my career with my values around decolonization, truth, and reconciliation.

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In a forest school environment, I view the setting as a "container" for young people to explore and form personal relationships with the land. I believe that this is essential for both individual growth and collective healing. My background in outdoor safety, including certifications as a wilderness first responder and experience in search and rescue, equips me to effectively balance safety with learner-guided play. I see play and physical activity as central to well-being and learning, making them integral to the forest school experience.

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Inclusivity and cultural integration are key aspects of my approach. I plan to weave Indigenous knowledge into the forest school curriculum and create brave spaces where all participants feel protected and valued. My past experience in building consensus and fostering brave spaces in educational settings has prepared me for this work.

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Looking ahead, my aspiration is to impact the next generation by encouraging them to view the land as a living relative rather than a resource to be exploited. I plan to continue growing in my role through ongoing learning, professional development, and deepening my relationship with the land.

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Through my dedication to fostering connections between youth and nature, I aim to contribute to a more respectful, inclusive, and harmonious world.