Employee Spotlight: Rosa’s journey with the FGCA

Written By Rosa

  

Hiking in Oak Ridges Corridor, Bethesda Trail, Richmond Hill

Thanks to Project Learning Tree Canada (PLT) Green Jobs Program, I had the opportunity to work as the Program Assistant for the Forest Gene Conservation Association (FGCA). I am a newcomer youth who came to Canada last year and I am  currently studying for a master’s degree in Environment and Sustainability at Western University. 

I am very passionate about nature, and I have a special connection with forests. As a child, I used to visit my grandparents in the San Martin province, a region in northern Peru, which is located in the upper part of the Peruvian Amazon rainforest. The connection that I developed with the land inspired me, and when I grew up, I decided to study Geography and Environment to protect the mother earth and the communities that live there. 

In my role at FGCA, I have developed an outreach strategy to collect data to inform tree species recovery work in Ontario. I have also created relevant environmental content to increase audience presence and engagement in the FGCA’s new website and social media channels. This experience gave me the opportunity to channel my passion for conservation and forestry into my day-to-day work. For me, urban trees and forests are essential to building resilient and sustainable communities. I am an untiring advocate of environmental education and community outreach as crucial activities to preserve worldwide forests and nature. 

Rosa’s past experiences in Green Jobs 

My childhood experiences in nature and educational background have had an enormous impact on my career development and personal interests. I participated in several socio-environmental projects. One of my previous green jobs was at a water research center, where I worked on a natural infrastructure project. I executed several trips and conducted community workshops in the Peruvian Andean Highlands. My work with natural spaces and human-ecosystem interaction has reaffirmed my goal to continue learning about the subject and working towards protecting the environment. Now that I am in Canada, and have gained valuable experience with the FGCA, I would like to continue participating in green activities to better prepare myself to make a difference in the world.    

       

Rosa planting trees in Richmond Hill

“The FGCA is so fortunate to have had the pleasure of working with Rosa. Her experience, professionalism, positive outlook and passion for the cause made her an excellent addition to the FGCA team. Thank you to the Project Learning Tree Canada Green Jobs Program for connecting us with Rosa and supporting her work with the FGCA.”

– Kerry McLaven Chief Executive Officer, FGCA

To learn more about PLT’s Green Jobs Program, visit: https://pltcanada.org/en/