Growing up in suburban GTA, I always found myself volunteering for community clean-ups and tree plantings. To me, volunteering became a way to learn about my community, make new friends, and learn so many new skills for free! Through volunteering, I gained a deep appreciation for hands-on work being done by non-for-profit organizations, conservation authorities, and municipalities. As I grew up, I began making a connection to the values people bring to managing their ecosystems. People become the driving force behind long-term positive, sustainable changes such as increasing canopy cover and species diversity, restoring habitats, and protecting natural and cultural heritage for future generations.
Trees in yards around the world: Clockwise from left - Guzman City (Mexico), Lahore (Pakistan), Toronto (Canada)
Upon completing my Bachelors of Science, I joined Evergreen as the Stewardship Coordinator, leading exciting community tree planting, stewardship, and urban agriculture projects across the Greater Toronto Area. I had the privilege of establishing learning gardens and leading species-at-risk projects while mentoring youth and volunteers. All along, I was falling deeper in love with trees, urban ecosystems, and the connection people develop with nature. I also had the pleasure of working on School Programs at Ecosource, where I developed and delivered educational curricula in the Region of Peel. Through educational, leadership, and professional development workshops and events, I was able to support the growth action among youth, adults, and families.
Trees in yards around the world : Clockwise from top left – Rome (Italy), Thousand Islands (Canada), San Fernando (Trinidad and Tobago), Trinidad City (Cuba).
I also embarked on a journey to complete my Master of Science at University of Toronto. I collaborated with incredible researchers to investigate the role of residents in managing urban forests and the factors that motivate or limit residents from taking on urban forest activities.
This is why I’m thrilled to be joining LEAF.
I first learned about LEAF in 2010 and it became an organization I always hoped to contribute to. In 2012 I completed the Tree Tenders Volunteer Training Program to increase my arboriculture knowledge, which fueled my public engagement projects. This course also inspired my @FactsAboutTrees Twitter account. The account quickly became a hub of information and news which highlights current trends in everything to do with trees locally and internationally (now with over 800 followers).
Now at LEAF, I’ll be leading the Education and Outreach team, working together with the public to protect and grow healthy urban forests which reflect the commitment of people living amongst them. I am looking forward to a great new adventure!
Tooba Shakeel is LEAF’s Education and Outreach Coordinator.