Leadership & Staff

Michael Wiebe, a dedicated leader rooted in community development and environmental advocacy, draws from his upbringing on the ancestral lands of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations to drive meaningful change. As Principal of WELL Strategies and former Vancouver City Councillor, Wiebe champions wellbeing and community cohesion, evident in his groundbreaking initiatives and visionary leadership as a Director on the Board of Metro Vancouver. His extensive involvement across diverse organizations, from the Vancouver Parks Board to the Indigenous Peoples Advisory Group, underscores his commitment to diversity, equity, and accessibility.

Recognized for his strategic foresight and entrepreneurial drive, Wiebe’s transformative projects prioritize economic resilience and environmental sustainability. Now as Director of Development and Philanthropy for the Foundation, he aims to elevate the organization’s mission through strategic leadership and community engagement, ensuring the preservation of Metro Vancouver’s natural beauty for generations to come.

Ashlynn has always been drawn to work that brings together youth, education, and the environment. She has completed a Bachelor of General Studies at Simon Fraser University, where she studied education, biology, and resource and environmental management. She has spent the past several years working with children and youth and creating programs where they can learn, build confidence, and feel supported.

Ashlynn believes that every young person deserves the opportunity to spend time in nature and feel comfortable outdoors. She cares deeply about helping youth discover the parks and natural spaces within their own communities, regardless of their background or previous outdoor experience. She is especially interested in how such environments can shape a young person’s confidence, learning, and sense of belonging. Through CTS, Ashlynn hopes to help youth build meaningful connections with nature that continue long after camp ends.

Outside of work, Ashlynn loves camping, going for walks with her dog, creating art through drawing and painting, and caring for her collection of houseplants.

Simran is a naturalist at heart. She received her undergraduate degree in resource and environmental management and public policy at Simon Fraser University, and has enjoyed working at the intersections of nature, education, and public engagement throughout her career. She has over a decade of experience volunteering and fundraising with organizations including BC Children’s Hospital Foundation and the Canadian Cancer Society. Outside of work, Simran enjoys hiking, running, and, spending time in BC’s great outdoors.

Caitlin grew up in the North Shore mountains and finds herself happiest near the trees and water. She holds a B.Sc. in Environmental Sciences from the University of British Columbia where she developed an understanding of the ecological, conservation, and sustainability practices that shape our communities and ecosystems. Caitlin finds fulfillment in making environmental resources accessible, engaging, and inclusive, and is excited to work on the many impactful projects at CTS. Outside of work, Caitlin spends her time exploring the outdoors, volunteering, visiting cafes, crafting, and being with her friends.

Maria has always led an active lifestyle, rooted in nature. She completed her Bachelor of Commerce at the University of British Columbia before starting a career in finance. After gaining experience across several roles in the industry, she decided to pursue her love of storytelling, creativity, and the outdoors; transitioning into marketing and content creation. Her focus has always been on inspiring others to connect with and protect the places we love for generations to come. Maria recently moved back to Vancouver after spending 2.5 years living and travelling around Australia where her appreciation for the environment grew. Outside of work you’ll find her on BC’s trails, catching a flight to somewhere new, or reading a book in the sun.

Jamie brings her passion for visual storytelling and the natural world to sharing the stories of regional parks, their wildlife, and the people who care for them. She has taken on the role of Philanthropy and Development Specialist, supporting fundraising initiatives, strategic planning, and communications that help protect and enhance regional parks for future generations.

Jamie holds a Bachelor of Physical Health and Education, specializing in Outdoor Adventure Leadership and Indigenous Studies. With ten years of experience as a tree planter, she has developed a deep appreciation for the natural world and the importance of environmental conservation. Her background also includes experience as a massage therapist and forest therapy guide, reflecting her interest in the connections between human well-being and the environment.

Through photography, communications, and philanthropy, Jamie enjoys finding meaningful ways to connect people with nature and inspire a deeper appreciation for the regional parks that enrich our communities.

Currently on maternity leave.

Miku is in her final year at UBC in the BSc Environmental Sciences program. She is passionate about sustainability, ecology, and community building. She was a CTS Participant, Peer Leader, Camp Counsellor, and is grateful to be able to now serve on the CTS Board. In her free time she helps restore the bog at Pacific Spirit Regional Park and enjoys dancing. 

Kaylan Wang is a former CTS participant, Peer Leader, and Youth Council executive. She is grateful to return to the organization in a leadership role. Professionally, Kaylan works with the provincial teachers’ union to support French-language programs. Outside of work and CTS, she volunteers as a ski patroller.

Charlotte is an experienced government and public sector consultant focused on human services. Hailing from the UK, Charlotte is passionate about mentorship and appreciates the way CTS allows youth guided leadership opportunities. In her spare time, she enjoys outdoor activities including rowing and camping.

Noor Bhandal is a Senior Consultant at Harbour West Consulting, an Executive Search and HR Consulting firm based in North Vancouver, BC. At Harbour West, Noor leads HR and compensation consulting projects, while supporting the organization’s marketing and engagement strategy. Previously, she worked in research, risk management, and the non-profit space. Noor completed her Master of Global Affairs from the Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy at the University of Toronto. She has also attained her Associate Certificate in Change Management from the UBC Sauder School of Business.

Kevin Zia works as a Manager of Financial Planning with RBC.  During his free time, you will often find Kevin coaching youth sports to help develop youth to be the best that they can be on and off the field.  CTS Society is able to positively impact youth with unique experiences under the broader context of being in nature to both celebrate and protect it for future generations to come.

Nancy Sinclair has lived in the Lower Mainland her entire life. Many days have been spent in Metro Vancouver Parks enjoying nature and appreciating the beauty that is within the parks. Nancy has been an avid outdoor educator for over 30 years. Her three children have all enjoyed the wonders of CTS Youth Society as participants and Peer Leaders.

Sean is a third year student majoring in Honours Marine Biology at The University of British Columbia. Sean is a seasoned CTS alum who started his CTS journey in 2016 as a camper, then later joined as a peer leader, youth council executive, and camp counsellor. Sean hopes to continue contributing to CTS on its Board of Directors by bringing his experience as a Camosun Bog Restoration Group Leader, a Co-design Group Youth Artist and Facilitator, and a dedicated member of the CTS community.

Julia is passionate about creating positive change through the intersection of nonprofits, business, and philanthropy. She was a Peer Leader with CTS when she was a teenager and is thrilled to be involved again as a Board Director. She currently works as a Fundraising Manager.