
Our Team
About Us / Our Team
At every step, highly qualified and dedicated professionals are involved in our operations.
Staff Members
Stephen McGovarin
Position: Technical Trainer & Project Coordinator
Categories: Staff
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.
Stephen McGovarin
Technical Trainer & Project Coordinator
Sarah Allemang
Position: Indigenous School Engagement Coordinator
Categories: Staff
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.
Sarah Allemang
Indigenous School Engagement Coordinator
Sarah Jayne Kendall
Position: Director of Community Engagement
Categories: Staff
S.J. (Sarah Jayne) is a member of Alderville First Nation who equally embraces her Anishinaabe and settler ancestry. With over 20 years’ experience in the community mental health and wellness sector, SJ’s career has been rooted in addressing the inequities Indigenous people experience when accessing culturally appropriate health care, safe and affordable housing and meaningful community supports. Community work experience led SJ to her current role with Water First, facilitating ongoing Indigenous historical and cultural awareness learning paths to ensure the Water First team continues its reparation work with Indigenous communities in an informed, inclusive and respectful way. Being an Anishinaabe Kwe, SJ understands her inherent role as a Water Protector and supports meaningful collaboration with community partners.
Sarah Jayne Kendall
Director of Community Engagement
Board of Directors
Indigenous Advisory Council
Water First does not identify as an Indigenous-led organization. As such, our Indigenous Advisory Council members provide valuable feedback on our programs and delivery in communities.