Hey! My name is Tera, and I am from Vancouver BC. Growing up on the West Coast, I was constantly exploring nature and had the opportunity to experience a variety of outdoor activities. By camping, hiking, kayaking, and outdoor education trips, I developed a deep connection with the environment. I plan to use my business skills to implement more sustainable practices into companies worldwide. I previously worked as a camp leader, teaching children about sustainability. Moving forward, I’m excited to what this incredible experience has to offer, and how I can make a positive difference through sustainability.  

What is your personal definition of sustainability? 

Sustainability is a lifestyle choice that actively seeks the path that causes the least amount of harm to the natural environment. Especially in the business world, I’ve witnessed unnecessary waste due to over consumption, and the creation of mass pollution that could be prevented with a few simple policy changes. Sustainability is an ongoing conversation and commitment to ensure that Earth remains a livable planet for future generations to come. Sustainability is present through the ways we interact with others, and the choices we make every day. 

What role do you see sustainability playing in your professional career?

As I move farther into my career, I hope help implement more sustainable practices into large corporations. I want to work in the sustainable energy industry or help innovate ways for organizations to better manage waste. As climate change becomes a more prominent issue in society, it’s essential for businesses to shift their approaches. Part of the reason why I chose to study business was because I wanted to make a change in the corporate world to shift the norms of corporations towards increased sustainability. Long-term I plan to own my own company that successfully achieves these goals. 

What sustainability projects have you been engaged in?

Last year, I was VP Events for the Huron green club. Through this role, I led events around campus such as cleanups and communal information sessions. I was also part of the “sustainability project” at my high school in Vancouver, where I worked together in teams to develop a Sustainable Lifestyle Plan to distribute to my school community. We included processes to reduce our carbon footprints and created conversations about introducing sustainable hand dryers in bathrooms instead of paper towels. Furthermore, I was part of a team that spearheaded the advanced outdoor education program for tenth graders called GO, which still runs today. This program includes sustainability education as well and helps students learn more about the flora and fauna in our natural area. Lastly  I worked as a Camp Counsellor at Grouse Mountain, which involved outdoor activities and educating young children on how remain respectful of nature. We also collaborated with an Indigenous Elder to teach the kids about Indigenous Cultures and the history of the land we work and play on. Through these experiences, I gained a deeper connection to sustainability, which increased my desire to enter an industry that can positively support that process.  

Please list any sustainability-related interests you want to explore during the certificate. 

• More sustainable waste management technology that can be implemented in more corporations  
• Sustainable energy generation 
• New technologies that improve sustainability in buildings