Our Team

John Millar is the Executive Director and Founder of Water First Education and Training Inc. His 22 years in the non-profit field has included extensive experience in First Nations engagement, non-profit management, and collaboration with dozens of Indigenous communities. He has worked for, and partnered with, a variety of non-profit organizations focusing on drinking water systems, environmental projects, education, and training.

With over a decade of teaching experience, Dillon has collaborated with schools and community members in FNMI communities across Canada to deliver STEM-based science workshops and complete watershed restoration & conservation projects. He has significant experience designing and delivering in-class and land-based educational programs at the Primary, Junior, Intermediate and Senior divisions. Dillon has been involved with the delivery/management of programs in over 85 Indigenous communities.

Ami has over 19 years experience and a proven track record in fundraising, resource development and marketing. She enjoys nurturing relationships with Water First donors and developing customized strategies to meet their needs. Along with sharing Water First’s stories and increasing awareness of our work.

With over 25 years of marketing and communications experience, Brenda has successfully developed online marketing campaigns and strategies for a variety of non-profits. She shares her vast experience to help Water First build effective public communications initiatives.

Ryan holds a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Engineering and a Master’s degree in Water Resources Engineering from the University of Guelph with a focus on hydrogeology and climate change monitoring. He also gained experience in photography while working along with environmental organizations and with the surf industry.

As the Stewardship Coordinator, Ashley manages donor appreciation and background data entry at Water First. With a decade of administrative experience and more than five years with the organization, Ashley ensures donors feel valued, bolstering our mission’s collaboration with Indigenous communities. Ashley’s commitment to cultivating significant relationships highlights the crucial function of donor stewardship in effecting positive transformation.

Adrianna Bilinski, member of Beausoleil First Nation, is the Program Manager of Indigenous School Engagement with Water First. As a certified teacher working with Water First she has visited 25 different community schools across 6 different provinces. Her passion for teaching helps her to support the work of building water science-related capacity in partner communities beginning with the youth and extending beyond when required.

Mason is from Thunder Bay, on the North Shore of Lake Superior, the traditional lands of the Fort William First Nation. He holds a BCom in Marketing Management from Toronto Metropolitan University and is passionate about supporting good work with his skills in communications and fundraising. Mason has years of communications, marketing, outreach and administrative experience with social and environmental businesses and organizations such as MakeWay Charitable Society, Ontario Nature, Patagonia Toronto and for the past 2+ years with Water First. He is passionate about combining his communications and design experience with his love for water and community engagement to support Water First’s communications and fundraising objectives.

Keegan Smith (MSc) has worked on water research projects around Canada, including Indigenous community-based monitoring projects in Nunavut, Ontario, Quebec, and Labrador. Keegan manages the Environmental Water Internship program, establishing new partnerships and ensuring the program meets exceptional quality standards. He also develops and delivers technical training workshops on water quality, fish habitat, snow & ice, and mapping & GIS.

Tanya is an Ontario Certified Teacher and holds a Graduate Diploma of Education in the Primary and Junior divisions, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Physical Geography. Her background includes several years of teaching experience on a First Nations reserve, as well as time spent delivering environmental programming. Her goal is to provide engaging and empowering, land-based learning opportunities for the Indigenous youth she works with.

Krysta is an OACETT Certified Environmental Technician (C.Tech.) who graduated from Mohawk College with an Environmental Technician Diploma and from the University of Guelph with a Bachelor’s degree in Geography. Her passion is water treatment and she has worked in different Ontario municipalities and industrial settings as a Class 2 Drinking Water Operator, as well as a Class 1 Wastewater Operator. She is an active volunteer within her community volunteering with Guelph Environmental Collective and other grassroots organizations. She stays busy with her curling league in the winter and enjoys playing beach volleyball in the summer. Krysta enjoys any opportunity to share experiences and to learn. Working at Water First, Krysta hopes to further her understanding of how to care for water and to share her experiences and knowledge of water treatment.

Cory’s M.Sc. research at the University of Waterloo helped develop a water monitoring program for a vast floodplain in Northern Alberta to address concerns over industrial expansion that were expressed by local Indigenous communities. Cory has also previously worked alongside a team of knowledge producers from First Nations communities, government, and universities to inform conservation of water resources in the Northwest Territories. At Water First, Cory looks forward to meaningful engagement with Indigenous communities while sharing her love for water science and ecology.

Stephen holds an Honours Bsc in Indigenous Environmental Studies and an MSc in Environmental Life Sciences from Trent University. Stephen’s experience has been focused on environmental pollution, fisheries and community-based programs with First Nations.

Brooke graduated from Trent University with a degree in Environmental and Earth Sciences, during this time she worked at the Peterborough Water Treatment Plant growing her interest and knowledge in clean drinking water. Before coming to Water First, Brooke worked at Georgian Bay Forever conducting research and education on microplastics in freshwater ecosystems, working towards legislative change to stop microfibre pollution at the source- our washing machines. At Water First, Brooke is excited to work alongside First Nations communities who share a love for the aquatic environment. Brooke is lucky to call the Saugeen Bruce Peninsula home.

Jacey, a member of the Piikani Nation in Southern Alberta, first began her educational journey at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology. Following her graduation from the Chemical Engineering Technology program, she pursued her Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering at Lakehead University, from which she graduated in the Spring of 2022. Proud of her identity as an Indigenous woman in engineering, Jacey is excited to share her passion for STEM with other Indigenous youth and play a part in training and providing resources for current and future generations of water protectors.

Sarah is an Ontario Certified Teacher and has a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies. She has worked with students of all ages teaching environmental and outdoor education programming at multiple outdoor education centres, as well as teaching at a forest school. Sarah loves integrating curriculum with hands-on outdoor and experiential learning opportunities. She is excited to work with and learn from Indigenous communities and students, sharing her passion for the environment, outdoor activities, and environmental stewardship.

Jenny is a member of Kettle and Stoney Point First Nation with experience in Indigenous studies, language and women’s groups. She jumped at the opportunity to work at Water First and loves the relationships she’s been able to create while working here. At Water First, Jenny is part of the Drinking Water and Community Engagement Team.  After work, you’ll find her hiking, biking, reading or thrifting.

Michelle brings 20+ years of experience with a family-run display advertising company and 10 years in freelance bookkeeping, business development, and sales. These roles gave her a solid foundation in administration at a management level, as well as the ability to work effectively with both internal and external stakeholders. She also serves on volunteer Boards of Directors. Michelle loves to find efficiencies in processes, business writing, and supporting the vision and mission of the Executive Director & Founder.

Beth graduated from the University of Windsor with a degree in Environmental Studies and a concentration in Resource Management. Her schooling, along with her previous work experience in social media earned Beth a spot on both the Environmental Water and Communications teams. She’s excited to be working in two fields she’s passionate about, and is ready to learn as much as possible from her colleagues and from the communities she works with.

Teresa brings 19 years of experience in fundraising, donor relations and event management to the Water First team. She enjoys connecting and collaborating with donors and community organizations to realize their philanthropic goals while supporting Water First’s mission. She graduated from Carleton University with an Honours Bachelor of Journalism and English.

Jessica holds her Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Geography and has been working in the charitable sector as a Certified Fundraising Professional for over two decades. Over this time she has worked closely with large corporations, small businesses, family foundations and individuals and families. She says the best part of her role with Water First is seeing people of all kinds have a real impact on a critically important cause.

Émilie has over 16 years of international experience working in the water and sanitation sector for non for profit organizations. She has collaborated with numerous small to large NGOs, municipalities, educational institutions and Governments to increase the availability of safe water and adequate sanitation facilities locally. She holds a Master in Water Management from Cranfield University, UK and a Bachelor in Wildlife and Countryside Conservation from Bishop Burton College, UK.

Karen Green brings more than 20 years of experience in creative marketing and communications to Water First. She studied Creative Writing at York University and has focused on the nonprofit sector for much of her career. Karen is happy to be able to contribute to the important and innovative work that Water First is doing.

Julia brings a unique perspective to the field of water science, blending her experience in land and water monitoring programs with expertise in 3D designing concepts. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Water Science from Wilfrid Laurier University, Julia is committed to leveraging her diverse skill set to address complex challenges in the field. Before joining Water First, she served as the Environment Technician with Six Nations of the Grand River, where she developed a deep understanding of environmental issues and community needs.

Juliana is an Ontario certified teacher in the Primary and Junior divisions, and has a background in biology and chemistry from Lakehead University. Juliana is happy to be able to contribute her love for teaching and commitment to environmental stewardship by empowering young minds to become advocates for water conservation and sustainability.

Aisha has extensive experience in environmental quality monitoring. Her M.Sc. research at Trent University focused on water quality and biological communities in stormwater management ponds in Southern Ontario. Before joining the Water First team, she was a Water Scientist with the Severn Sound Environmental Association where she worked to increase understanding of water quality conditions and impacts of watershed stressors in the Severn Sound area, Georgian Bay, as well as develop citizen science programs to engage the public. Aisha is excited to bring her passion for water science to First Nation communities and learn from their experiences as stewards of the land and water.

Desiree is a proud member of Curve Lake First Nation and brings a deep, personal commitment to fostering sustainable practices supporting Indigenous communities. Desiree is a member of the Ontario College of Teachers, holding a Diploma in Indigenous Community and Social Development and a Bachelor of Education through the Wabaan Indigenous Teacher Education Program at York University. She brings experience and understanding in addressing the needs of Indigenous communities, with extensive experience in communications and marketing. Desiree looks forward to enhancing program visibility and community engagement, driving positive change and advocating for environmental stewardship.

Jacob Vickery is a Red River Métis artist and musician who brings creativity and a positive attitude to all of his endeavors. He holds a BA in Literature from Laurentian University and recently completed an MA in Canadian and Indigenous studies at Trent University, contributing to award winning policy work in 2021 and 2022. Jacob recently served as Treasurer of his local Métis community council in the Peterborough & Wapiti district.

Elijah is a proud member of Sagamok Anishnawbek First Nation, dedicated to helping Indigenous individuals gain the necessary skills for success. As a former Water First Intern who has obtained experience as a drinking water operator, he is excited to pass on his knowledge to the new interns. His role as Internship Trainer is teaching & providing the necessary knowledge/skills for the interns to succeed successfully.

Mindy has 15 years of financial experience in the government, manufacturing, healthcare & education industries working her way up to Assistant Controller in her past role. She is currently working towards completing her accounting designation. Mindy is happy to join Water First and gain experience in a charitable organization.  She looks forward to learning more about indigenous culture and hopes her experience can positively contribute towards the organization’s initiatives.

Rachel has many years of experience working with children/youth of all ages and is particularly passionate about environmental education, leadership and land-based learning. With a background in Indigenous Environmental Studies and Sociology, Rachel is grateful for the opportunity to work and learn on the land alongside Indigenous youth, promoting water conservation and protection.

Kayla Morales is an environmental scientist who has completed research in multiple labs focusing on urban hydrology. She graduated with a Master’s degree from Toronto Metropolitan University in Environmental Sciences and Management and from McMaster University with a Bachelor’s degree in Geography and Environmental Sciences, minoring in GIS. Kayla has experience working with several universities, municipalities, and non-profit organizations. At Water First, Kayla is excited to share her passion for water sciences while making meaningful connections and learning from our Indigenous partners.

Keira is an experienced graphic designer and communications professional in the non-profit and charitable industry. She holds a BA in International Development and Law from Dalhousie University and studied graphic design and communications at the Ontario College of Art and Design (OCAD). She has previously worked on supporting the implementation of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples on the federal and International level and is ready to support the work of the Water First team through design and social media communications.

Isabel’s background blends science with education and outreach. Her previous work focused on developing and supporting community-based water monitoring programs for recreational waters across Canada, and sharing the results of this work to support water literacy. She is also an experienced outdoor educator, working as a SCUBA diving instructor and delivering experiential marine biology courses. With Water First, she’s excited to share her experience in community-based water monitoring, and continue learning from and with communities.

With a Human Resources Management Certificate from York University, Melissa is a highly organized and motivated human resources and administrative specialist with extensive experience supporting both employees and leadership in fast-paced environments. She has a strong background in recruitment, onboarding and offboarding, payroll and benefits administration, and HR process improvement.  Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family and getting out on hiking trails. One of the things she is most passionate about is helping people, which is why she is so proud to be working on a team that is making a difference in the lives of Indigenous communities across Canada.

Martha has an extensive background in both education and human resources where she combines her passion for teaching and training with developing and implementing creative workplace initiatives to drive strategic organizational goals.

Her first introduction to working for a not-for-profit organization was in Japan where she worked in education at a Round Square school for 10 years. For the last 10 years she has worked as an HR professional in the private sector.

When not at work, she enjoys being outdoors cycling, hiking, skiing and volunteering for Special Olympics and The Georgian Bay Land Trust. As someone committed to continuous learning and environmental stewardship, she’s excited to join, support and learn from the Water First team and the Indigenous communities they partner with.

Jill is a highly experienced Human Resources professional with over 20 years of leadership in the not-for-profit sector, having overseen operations both in Canada and internationally. She serves each year as a panel member for Osgoode Hall’s Advanced HR Law Program and has facilitated leadership training in more than 12 countries. With a strong focus on strategic operations, Jill is committed to supporting Water First in its mission to “Grow Well” to address local water challenges in Indigenous communities through education, training, and meaningful collaboration.

Fiorella holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communications and has spent the past several years leading marketing and fundraising initiatives across the nonprofit, hospitality, and corporate sectors. Passionate about digital engagement and donor connection, she brings experience in campaign strategy, social media, and content development. Fiorella is honoured to be part of Water First’s mission, working alongside passionate people committed to clean water and community empowerment.

Clayton is a creative filmmaker and animator located in Vancouver, BC, situated on the unceded traditional territories of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations. He is a graduate of the University of Capilano’s Motion Picture Arts and Design program and is a lifelong learner.

With a background in nonprofit work, he creates engaging content that supports mission-driven programs, using storytelling to boost outreach and impact.

Troy is a certified teacher and outreach instructor from Winnipeg, Manitoba, located on Treaty 1 Territory and the homeland of the Métis Nation. He has over a decade of classroom and community teaching experience, life skills instruction, and support within urban Indigenous communities. He is passionate about creating engaging, student-driven learning. With additional experience as a professional musician and project organizer, Troy values collaboration, cultural exchange, and community connection. At Water First, he is dedicated to supporting Indigenous youth in exploring water science and stewardship, and in seeing themselves as future leaders.

Kiera holds a Bachelor’s degree in Water Resources Engineering from the University of Guelph, with experience working in consulting, specifically stormwater management design. Her background blends water science with education and outreach. She is also an experienced outdoor educator working in Ontario and British Columbia with learners of all ages, delivering hands-on experiential programming. She is excited for the opportunity to work with Water First and continue to learn, grow and collaborate in meaningful ways.

Candice joined Water First after more than a decade translating technical water science into accessible, practical knowledge. She worked as a water treatment technical expert at a non-governmental organization and later helped design and teach water science courses at a polytechnic. Her experience spans government, academic, industrial, and not-for-profit sectors, with her not-for-profit work focused on community-based water initiatives. Her doctoral research explored how drinking water became contaminated between source and use and the uptake of point-of-use treatment in an Arawak community in Guyana. At Water First, Candice is an Instructional Designer developing educational programs that strengthen community capacity for safe and sustainable water management.

Reggie is currently based in Alberta, Canada and has extensive experience supporting and teaching youth. A graduate of Lakehead University, Reggie began her career in a Grade 7 classroom, where she developed a strong commitment to interactive and student-centered learning. With a passion for travel, continuous learning, and the outdoors, Reggie brings a well-rounded and enthusiastic approach to education, helping youth build meaningful skills and confidence beyond the traditional classroom.

Tessa is a Teme Augama Anishnabai Kwe (Temagami First Nation). She graduated from the University of Ottawa. Tessa volunteered on her First Nation’s Lands & Resources Advisory Committee for several years before moving to Southern Ontario. She has a strong commitment to land-based projects, especially those dealing with nibi (Water). Tessa brings to Water First her experience working directly with a rural and remote Northern First Nation, along with her passion for Indigenous histories.

Christy brings over 30 years of bookkeeping and accounting experience to the team, having worked in the manufacturing and hospitality sectors. She is deeply committed to Water First’s vision of providing clean water to First Nation communities through training and education. Working alongside such a talented group of people is an incredible bonus.

Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family and her many animals. She loves being outdoors—whether biking, gardening, paddleboarding, or simply just spending time near the water.

Faraz Somjee is the Interim Director of Finance at Water First, bringing over 20 years of leadership experience in finance and corporate services across charitable, not-for-profit, healthcare, social services, and multinational organizations. He oversees financial reporting, budgeting, audit, policy development, and finance systems improvement, with a focus on strengthening stewardship, operational effectiveness, and organizational sustainability. His experience spans strategic finance, governance, information technology, compliance, internal controls, and organizational transformation, complemented by board and audit committee service that supports strong accountability and risk management. Outside of work, Faraz enjoys family time, travel, mentoring, and writing personal and humorous reflections on family life and shared experiences.

Alyssa Wilson, a member of the Adams Lake Indian Band in B.C., resides in the Traditional Territory of the Silyx. She began her journey as an OIT in Water and Wastewater in 2012 after graduating with her Certificate in Water and Wastewater Utilities from Thompson Rivers University. Throughout her career in the private sector, municipal government, and with a First Nation community, she has worked in multiple systems of varying size and treatment.  Aly is passionate about empowering community capacity through education and training. 

Janelle is a member of Rama First Nation and a graduate of Loyalist College’s Environmental Technician Program. As a Drinking Water Intern Alumni, she has gained valuable experience operating a Class 4 drinking water treatment plant. In her role as an Internship Trainer, she is passionate about supporting others and helping interns develop the skills they need to succeed. With a strong interest in environmental stewardship, Janelle is committed to continuous learning and creating a positive, supportive environment for those around her. 

Alexandra Nolan, a member of Garden River First Nation, is a recent graduate of the Water First Environmental Internship Program with a passion for water advocacy and environmental stewardship. She is committed to using her Indigenous knowledge to support communities and promote the importance of protecting water. With a strong sense of empathy and a passion for learning, she is excited to continue building her skills and contributing to meaningful, community focused work.

Mary King, a member of Beausoleil First Nation, serves as the Director of Government Relations at Water First. Drawing upon her experience as a former Chief of her community, she offers significant expertise in advocacy, financial administration, and executive leadership. Throughout her career, she has remained committed to utilizing her professional skills to further the advancement of First Nations.

With a master’s degree in international relations and a career spanning the diplomatic, post-secondary education and non-profit sectors, Jennifer brings a wide variety of skills to her role with Water First. Having joined first in an administrative capacity, she has since moved into donor relations, where she enjoys sharing with donors the impact of their support.

Claire is an Ontario Certified Teacher with qualifications in high school Biology and Chemistry and an undergraduate degree in Toxicology. She first joined Water First through the Canada Summer Jobs program and has loved growing with the organization, moving from an Outreach Instructor into her current role. With extensive experience working with students of all ages, she enjoys creating hands-on learning experiences that foster curiosity and confidence in science. She is excited to contribute to the School Water Team, build meaningful relationships with communities, and continue learning alongside the students and people she works with.