Lauren Anstey (she/her) works in post-secondary teaching and learning as a facilitator of educational development. Holding a doctorate in Education, Lauren currently works at College of the Rockies as a Teaching and Learning Specialist in the Centre for Innovation in Teaching and Learning. She is also Chair of the College’s Sustainability Committee. Lauren is passionate about making climate change education accessible to all and she conducts research on future authentic learning – how learning can be shaped by what is deeply meaningful and relevant to learners as they develop resilient skills for a complex future. Lauren was born on Treaty 29 territory to Irish, Belgian, and Scottish ancestors and now lives in ʔakisqakⱡiʔit (Cranbrook, BC) with her partner, two young daughters, and two pups.

As a mom of two young children, Allison De Meester-Chaffey (she/her) knows what it is like to be unsure about climate change and how to raise children in a complex and changing world. 

Allison is the Manager of the Invermere Veterinary Clinic, where the health and wellbeing of pets and their families is her top priority. As a proud Invermere resident, she values connecting with other young families in building community. Allison was also born on Treaty 29 territory to Irish, Belgian, and Scottish ancestors. 

Together, Lauren and Allison have partered as sisters, parents, and community members to organize this event with support from the Columbia Valley Community Foundation.