Graeme Hopkins
→ WILD Outside adult volunteer, former youth member
→ Ocean Bridge program ambassador, Ocean Wise, October 2023 to March 2024
→ Ocean Wise Eco-Action Accelerator program, May 2024 to October 2024
→ 2024 Youth Climate Activism Award from the Institute for Sustainability Education & Action
IN HIS OWN WORDS
Nature has been a consistent fascination and escape for me throughout my life. My passionate and singular interest in paleontology began when I was very young and has not wavered since. My love for the study of fossils took me into the outdoors and introduced me to places I might never have visited otherwise. It has trained me to examine everything with curiosity and enthusiasm.
I live with autism spectrum disorder, and my life experiences of exclusion have inspired me to make every effort to welcome all youth to nature. Equity is not only a policy but a practice, making sure all feel safe and welcome. It is important to include youth of all backgrounds and identities, and engage speakers of diverse identities as session facilitators. We regularly collaborate with local Métis and First Nations individuals. As a lead of the Saskatoon Newcomer Youth Outdoor Adventure Club, I work directly with a diverse array of trained facilitators who have lived experience as new immigrants to Canada.
I am grateful for the Canadian Wildlife Federation’s WILD Outside program as well as all of the volunteers and employees who made it possible. Ever since I became a participant in WILD Outside more than four years ago, the group has enabled me to maintain my connection to nature and nurture my love for life.
Youth Mentor Award
This award honours an individual or group that has made a significant contribution in creating or presenting programs that introduce youth to the importance of conservation, habitat and wildlife.