Living my whole life on Vancouver Island, right on the edge of beautiful forests and oceans, has gifted me with an unbounded love for nature. Playing outside, getting muddy, finding creatures and breathing in the fresh air has been an integral part of my life, and I consider it a privilege to be in a position where I can support these experiences for children and their families!

​Now nestled back on the west coast doing my Masters in Environment Studies and Education, with my wife, dog and cat I look forward to meeting new kiddos and visiting with past families to see what adventures awaits us. My passion for the natural world around us is what I hope to share with many families that come to Seedlings.

Hello, all! My name is Emily. I'm the Program Coordinator here at Seedlings—it's nice to "meet" you!

Originally hailing from Nova Scotia, I have been in British Columbia since 2013. Growing up, I found myself exploring the forests behind my home - climbing trees, splashing in the brook that meandered across the road from my house, and digging for all sorts of critters. I found a sense of peace and curiosity through spending my childhood (and adult) years outdoors, learning to appreciate and respect the natural world around me. In my free time, I am often outdoors biking, hiking, swimming, camping, or climbing - as well as playing a variety of musical instruments (I'm Nova Scotian, after all!).

With years of experience working with children of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds, as well as graduating with my ECE, I have a passion for inclusivity and accessibility for all. I find that this translates over into my teaching style, as I see the importance of celebrating each person's superpowers and how we can incorporate them into our day-to-days.

I look forward to adventuring, learning, and remaining curious with your kiddos and seeing you all soon!

My name is Max, and I built the website you're on right now. I'm a designer and programmer originally from California but currently living with my partner and dog on Vancouver Island in the traditional territory of the Esquimalt and Songhees Nations.

I jumped at the chance to work on the Seedlings website because I love how fun and enthusiastic the team is and the amazing programs they offer.

In my spare time, I make video games, play several instruments poorly, cook for friends, read books, and watch RuPaul's Drag Race.

Hello all! My name is Sam, I am filled with so much excitement and gratitude being welcomed into the seedlings family! I spent most of my life in Ontario - growing up in Toronto and spending every summer in London (Ontario) always surrounded by family. My happiest memories have always been in nature - playing in the snow, jumping in leaf piles, camping adventures, and living a double life as a mermaid. I truly believe the secret to living a full life is to lead with your heart and embrace your inner child. My journey led me to moving to Victoria in 2017; I obtained my early learning diploma with my inclusive care education at Camosun College, and have happily found my place in life as an Early Childhood Educator.

I have always had a passion to support children with diverse abilities or those who have difficulties in life that can present as challenging behaviours. I have found through my experiences that showing up and being there with love and kindness makes the difference. It doesn't take much for me to give love and try to make someone's day brighter - my hope is to be able to share that in this community. I am a firm believer in that all humans, especially children, thrive in nature and we gain so much when we look to nature as a teacher - the lessons that can be learned are boundless. Through nature, my education, and work in the field I have learned so much about myself and the world around me; I am so eager to continue this learning journey and embrace everything that is to come with open arms.

Hi, I’m Heather Faye! I’m very excited to join the Seedlings team! Being born and raised on the Island, I can say I’ve always had a love of our land and surroundings. From a young age I remember running barefoot along the ocean collecting sea dollars, walking through the wet rainforest to find nature sanctuaries and sharing stories of Bigfoot around the fire on the many camping trips. I always felt nature is so magical and special to be in. I adore gardening and keeping house plants in any space I can fit them. I take pride being the green thumb my friends come to for plant advice.

My other passion is found in art. Painting, drawing, wood burning, clay... if it’s creative, I want my hands on it! I find my inspiration in everyday beauty, in my childhood memories, and in the bright colours of nature. It’s one of the main roads that led me to my love of teaching young ones for many years. Needless to say, being a part of Seedlings and having the opportunity to spend my days outside to play, create and imagine is a true dream come true! I’m so excited to share my ideas and learn from all the new friends different ways to enjoy our world together.

Hello, I’m Rose! Allow me to introduce myself.

In the third grade, I had to create a presentation about what I wanted to do when I grew up. Without hesitation, I said I wanted to work with children, and at a pet store. When I was 11 years old, I began babysitting children in my neighbourhood. Once I moved to BC, I remembered that third-grade dream of working with children, and truly realized my passion for the field of Early Childhood Education. After studying to get my ECEA, I continued my education to receive my ECE and completed my infant/toddler training. Throughout my time in this field, I have learned to be reflective in my practice, focusing on inclusivity and co-creating curriculum with children.

Ever since I was little, I could always be found outside. One of my favourite memories from my childhood in Toronto, Ontario is looking for snails in the warm summer downpours and loving it. In 2020, when I moved out to Victoria with my dog, cat, and partner, I discovered my joy in searching for creatures in the ocean tide pools. Any kind of strange or slimy creature I find will always have a special place in my heart.

Along with my love of the natural world, I have a deep passion for the arts! I grew up in a big family, each member with their own unique and creative gifts, so I was always surrounded by art. I love theatre, playing the ukulele, singing, and dancing, so you will likely hear me making up songs with your little ones throughout the day! I can’t wait to learn and share the joys and curiosities of life with everyone at Seedlings.

Raised in the Rocky Mountains, my affinity for nature was fostered from a young age. I spent a great deal of time in outdoor programs as well as camping with my family and friends, which ultimately led to me becoming the quintessential camp counsellor. Over the years I’ve run summer soccer training programs, been an activities manager for youth hostels, as well as worked 1:1 as a carer.

In university I studied Public Relations and Communications as my passion to understanding and relating to others is integral to who I am. Through my experiences of working with people of all backgrounds, I have seen firsthand how impactful one person can be in a someones life, particularly in childhood.

I strive to be the person I needed when I was younger, and help encourage youth to love and trust themselves whilst finding the words and resources to do so. I especially appreciate when we can share and discover tangible ways which one can access at any time through their life journey - like the joy of being present with nature itself. I look forward to making up songs, being silly, learning, and growing with the Seedlings community.

Hello! My name is Emma (though many call me Beans), and I'm an interdisciplinary artist and educator originally from Southern Ontario.

My work and education history is varied, and my wide set of experiences in the arts and education fields helps me engage with kids off all ages creatively and authentically. Being an outdoor educator also gives me ample opportunity to promote environmental play and stewardship in the daily lives of the kids, their families and ourselves, which is incredibly important and a dream come true. 😃

I look forward to making mud pies with everyone this season.

Hi, I'm Kim. I am super excited to be welcomed into the Seedlings family. I am my most authentic, artistic, and creative self when I am immersed in nature. I grew up on the prairies, where I spent a lot of time on my farm exploring and learning about all the little critters. This experience granted me the opportunity to volunteer at a nature centre, helping with children's programs and guiding them through lessons on how to respect nature and inspire them to be little ambassadors. I aim to foster young hearts to love and protect our Earth, one adventure at a time. Another great volunteer opportunity was being the honorary "Coach Kim" for Tim Bits soccer players, which taught me a lot about nurturing children's untamed sides!

I am so fortunate to be able to call the West Coast my home now. When I'm not kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or surfing, I love arts and crafts, camping, and adventuring with my husband and doggo. I am fascinated with Optical Science and work as an Optician on the days you won't see me at Seedlings. I strive to be an encouraging role model and look forward to making new friends, big and small!