 |
Annika Chiasson Executive Director Born and raised in Moncton, Annika first worked for the NBEN as a summer student in 2013 and then again in 2014. Little did she know she would come back in 2016, bringing with her, her passion for nature, art, and technology! |
 |
Zaheera Denath Climate Change Adaptation Collaborative Program Coordinator Zaheera joined the NBEN in 2017. Having resided in various locales during her formative years (including South Africa and Kuwait), she has settled in with her husband and animal family in Albert County on a large acreage coined “the funny farm” because of her unconventional animal husbandry. Her methods utilize as much natural and holistic knowledge gained from her various cultural experiences. She brings this same dedication to her work at the NBEN, advocating for natural solutions to today's issues. |
 |
Dorice Pinet Environmental Networker for the Acadian Peninsula and the Chaleur Region Dorice holds the position of Environmental Networker for the Acadian Peninsula and the Chaleur Region. This position allows her to act as a link between organizations in the Northeast and those in the rest of the province. She is also on the lookout for programs, projects, and challenges in her region. Being concerned about climate change, she is actively involved in many community organizations and events that aim at sustainable and healthy solutions. In the winter you can find her on the cross-country ski trails, and in the summer she is by the water, on her bike, or in the community garden she shares with friends. |
 |
Nat Goguen Biodiversity and Watershed Programs Manager Nat is known for their kindness, leadership, and knowledge of gardening and plant species. Committed to the community, they have dedicated their career and many volunteer hours to the non-profit sector with a focus on food security and environmental sustainability. They are a member of many committees and boards dedicated to the environment and the 2SLGBTQ+ Community. Outside of work, Nat can often be seen with their kids at social events, at the beach, or at live music events. Other hobbies include hiking, camping, biking, and dancing. |
 |
Charles Thibodeau Program Coordinator Charles joins the NBEN as the Nature-based Climate Approaches Program Coordinator supporting municipalities with climate risk mitigation. Charles is a mechanical engineer with experience in transportation, energy, climate change, sustainable development, testing and certification, safety and emissions research, as well as regulatory and policy development. He is also a Certified Permaculture Designer and a Community Food Mentor. Whether it is lounging in his solar passive home surrounded by edible landscaping and nature trails in the Wabanaki Forest, or volunteering at his local community centre, he is always focused on nature-based solutions and cooperation. |
 |
Axel Hamdi Administrative Assistant Born and raised in Arris, in the Aurès Mountains, Algeria, AxeL built a strong expertise in IT before deciding to take on new challenges. One week after their wedding, he and his wife made the exciting decision to move to Canada, starting a new chapter in their lives. AxeL is thrilled to be here, ready to dive in and explore the opportunities ahead, both professionally and personally. This journey is just beginning, and he can't wait to see where it takes him. |
 |
Jill Young Sustainability Education Alliance Coordinator Jill weaves her love for learning, the outdoors and a commitment to meaningful connection into each day. She is an experienced educator, certified forest school practitioner, and lifelong nature lover with over 20 years of experience mentoring and teaching children. She is the founder of a nature-based program for children and youth. Rooted in faith, kindness and community, she brings warmth, intention and reverence to her work. Jill finds balance as the steward of her family’s hobby farm, where she gardens, creates art, and wanders the forest with her children and dogs. |
 |
Alya Nouasri Environmental Health Programs Coordinator Hailing from Ontario, Alya moved to New Brunswick in 2000, and has spent the majority of her life here. With a bachelor’s degree in business management, and experience in non profits, childcare, and many hours volunteering in food security and community gardens, her passion lies with environmental and health justice with a focus on new and future generations. Passionate about the outdoors, education, health, and community building, Alya can be found outside year round participating in a variety of hobbies, sharing with friends and family. Some interests include gardening, archery, camping, reading, and yoga. |
 |
Liliane Graine Communications Assistant Originally from Algeria, graduate in Biology and Physiology of Reproduction. Liliane is a professional Master's student in Environmental studies and a Communications Assistant at NBEN. She is deeply interested in sustainability, climate action and the ways communication can help make complex environmental issues more accessible and engaging. Passionate about bodybuilding and crossfit where she spends her free time and also loves cats. |
 |
Kim Shields Coordinator of Experiential Learning Kim brings over a decade of experience working with children and families through music, education, and community programs, including the New Brunswick Youth Orchestra, Sistema NB, and the Anglophone East School District. With degrees in music and a background as a teacher, performing musician and a community builder, she is passionate about creative, child-led learning and building meaningful connections. As Coordinator of Experiential Learning, Kim leads the Great Minds Think Outside program, supporting teachers in bringing their students outdoors to learn, explore, and connect with the natural world. Outside of work, she can often be found outside experiencing the magic of the changing seasons and following the curiosities of her two young children. |
 |
Amanda Fenech Communications Manager Amanda grew up in Southern Ontario and developed a passion for environmental sciences at a young age. Spending time on the lakes, camping in the North, and soaking up sun on the beach sparked a life goal of becoming a scientist. Today, Amanda calls the Canadian East Coast her home and shares her love of nature through scientific communication, education, and beach combing on her own time. Her goal is to ultimately help spark stewardship in the next generation of environmental leaders. |
