CHAIR

I've been involved in supporting forest and marine ecosystem protection in BC since moving to the west coast after university. Vancouver's beaches, shorelines and oceans are an incredible privilege to enjoy. We have a responsibility to ensure that they continue to thrive for all the creatures that depend on them and for the generations ahead of us to inherit. Let's leave things better than we found them!

I split my time between Vancouver and Pemberton with my wife and two sons. I love spending time outdoors paddling, camping, hiking, biking, skiing, playing frisbee, or enjoying those sublime west coast sunsets and waves.

VICE CHAIR
Jen has always lived by the ocean, having spent time in Canada, Australia and England. She is a Divemaster and loves diving in our beautiful waters and frequent local sites in Howe Sound and on the Island.

Jen serves as the Fundraising Lead for the Surfrider Foundation Vancouver, where she passionately drives efforts to secure the resources necessary to support the foundation’s initiatives. With a background working in the corporate world (in HR & Business consulting), she is hoping she can put her skills and experience to work to protect where we play!

When not blowing bubbles underwater, Jen loves exploring the mountains with her painting set, finding the best cafe in a new exotic place, and hanging out with loved ones - the best of them all being her Aussie Shepherd Ollie.

SECRETARY

Having had the privilege to be born and raised in Vancouver, BC, I have always felt a deep connection with the ocean. I hold 2 Diplomas in Business Admin and Legal Admin, as well as completion of Paralegal Studies at Vancouver Community College. I am an Administrative Assistant for a Labour Union by day, full time mother by night, and swimmer whenever I get the chance. I hold 2 patents published on the internet for kids’ accessories. I made a strong career change recently and decided to prioritize my work life balance, part of that is doing things that feel good for the soul, which inspired me to be part of this amazing movement. I speak French fluently, mother was from Bordeaux, France and Father is from the Island of Trinidad located in the Caribbean.

Hobbies include performing arts, dancing, swimming, ghost hunting with my child at local haunted spots, beachcombing, stargazing and astrology.

VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR

Danielle’s love for the sea is ancestral. Her mother’s family has fishing roots on a small island where they used to provide fish to the villagers and her father was a scuba diver and spearfisherman who used to take their family boating around BC waters. She started her career working in fashion and action sports, which led to her taking a role with Roxy at Quiksilver.

Working in surf and growing up on the coast allowed her to spend time exploring the ocean’s surface by fishing, surfing and boating until her brother introduced her to spearfishing off the Colombian coast – a transformative experience that both humbled her and unveiled a breathtaking underwater realm. That was the catalyst - the moment that she knew that she wanted to see more. She then spent a few years learning how to freedive in different countries, bringing her daughter Rio along as her adventure partner, taking her to scuba dive at 10 years old. This life spent underwater showed Danielle that everywhere she went, it’s sadly all the same - our oceans are dying and need our help. She now works for the first Climate Neutral Certified company in cannabis and was part of the team that launched the first home compostable package in the Canadian market.

COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR

Mariana has always lived close to the ocean — born in Portugal, living in Australia, and most recently settling on the west coast of Canada. Her deep connection to the ocean through surfing and surf photography inspired her to apply her experience to support Surfrider's mission.

As the Communications Director of our chapter, Mariana collaborates with our talented communications team to share our efforts, promote our campaigns and programs, and raise awareness of local challenges, bringing our community together to protect our coastline.

Outside of work, you’ll often find her exploring the coast, catching waves, practicing yoga, or diving into different arts and crafts projects.

FUNDRAISING COORDINATOR
By day, Tom works in Healthcare IT but is also on the board for other nonprofits on the fundraising committee, expertly convincing people to part with their money—for a good cause, of course. With a knack for rallying donors and planning successful campaigns, helping to turn big dreams into real-world impact.

By night (or whenever he can escape), he’s off scuba diving in search of Nemo or hopping on a plane to his next adventure. Whether navigating deep waters or airport security lines, Tom thrives in high-pressure environments—especially if there’s free snacks involved.

Passionate about making a difference and exploring the world, Tom believes fundraising is a lot like scuba diving: stay calm, keep breathing, and always have a backup plan (preferably one that includes amazing beaches)!

VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR

Growing up in Winnipeg, Krissy always knew she’d end up by the ocean. After a few years in Calgary, she made her way to Vancouver in 2010, where she quickly embraced the West Coast lifestyle—from the surf to the sunsets. A true beach and water lover, Krissy is deeply passionate about protecting the coastal environment she holds so dear. Whether it’s the waves or the wildlife, she believes every part of the coast deserves to be protected and preserved.

As a Volunteer Coordinator, Krissy is focused on making a lasting impact. She works to build strong volunteer teams that come together to drive change, protect shorelines, and support environmental advocacy—and she’s all about having fun while doing it! Krissy loves collaborating with passionate individuals who are committed to making a real difference in the fight for coastal conservation.

When she’s not working, you’ll find Krissy at the beach with her dogs, Billie and Bear, breathing in the salty air that first sparked her love for the coast.