Alexia is a PhD candidate in the Applied Conservation Macro Ecology (ACME) Lab at the University of Victoria, studying British Columbia’s red-listed Columbian fisher population. Her research focuses on the impacts of forestry and wildfire on fisher habitat and collaborative conservation with First Nations, industry, and government. She serves as Chair of the Conservation Affairs Committee for the BC Chapter of The Wildlife Society and is a registered Professional Biologist (RPBio).

Peyton is a Biology student at Vancouver Island University with a lifelong passion for the natural world, from prehistoric life to modern wildlife. He plans to specialize in paleontology or zoology after completing his degree. Peyton served as Educational Assistant and Summer Student at NIWRA in 2025 and has returned in the same role in 2026. He also volunteers with NIWRA’s Education Team and is an active member of the Qualicum Paleontology Club.

Shelise is entering her second year in the Bachelor of Science (Biology) program at Vancouver Island University, with the goal of becoming a wildlife biologist. Inspired by a childhood surrounded by Australia’s diverse wildlife, she is passionate about conservation and ecosystem health. Shelise volunteers with NIWRA, works as a summer student, and participates in the VIU Bird Banding Project, gaining hands-on experience in wildlife rehabilitation, field research, and conservation.

Shelise is entering her second year in the Bachelor of Science (Biology) program at Vancouver Island University, with the goal of becoming a wildlife biologist. Inspired by a childhood surrounded by Australia’s diverse wildlife, she is passionate about conservation and ecosystem health. Shelise volunteers with NIWRA, works as a summer student, and participates in the VIU Bird Banding Project, gaining hands-on experience in wildlife rehabilitation, field research, and conservation.

Entering her fourth year of a Biology degree at the University of Victoria, Addie is specializing in animal biology with the goal of becoming a veterinarian. After completing an animal care internship at NIWRA, she developed a strong interest in wildlife rehabilitation and veterinary medicine. Passionate about Vancouver Island’s ecosystems, Addie hopes to combine her education and hands-on experience to pursue a career as a wildlife veterinarian.

Sable is entering the final year of a combined Bachelor of Science in Biology and Psychology at the University of Victoria, where she is completing an Honours thesis in Biology. Inspired by a lifelong appreciation for nature, she is passionate about local biodiversity and environmental education. She works as a Visitor Information Counsellor with the Strathcona Wilderness Institute, helping foster curiosity and stewardship among park visitors.

Branwen developed a lifelong passion for wildlife and environmental stewardship while exploring Vancouver Island’s forests and backcountry. After earning a Veterinary Technology diploma, she gained experience in emergency and specialty animal care, developing an interest in wildlife medicine. She plans to continue her training through Northern College’s Wildlife Rehabilitation program and hopes to build a career supporting wildlife rehabilitation, endangered species recovery, and ecosystem conservation.

Kayla is a third-year veterinary student at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine with a passion for wildlife conservation. A Certified Wildlife Rehabilitator (CWR), she is interested in wildlife epidemiology, zoonotic diseases, and rehabilitation. Kayla has held leadership roles in wildlife-focused student organizations and aspires to become a wildlife veterinarian, advancing rehabilitation efforts while supporting the long-term health of wildlife populations and ecosystems.