Speaking & Education
Conversations I love to have
I give talks and lead sessions that make wildlife, ocean ecosystems, and field science feel real, relevant, and accessible. My approach is practical and story-driven, grounded in time spent working as a biologist, naturalist, and wildlife photographer in Canada and East Africa.
Whether I’m speaking to a Rotary Club, a classroom, a youth group, or a conference audience, my goal is the same: help people notice more, understand what they’re seeing, and feel confident engaging with nature in their own way.
I’m comfortable with all ages and adapt each talk to the audience, from elementary students to professionals.
Science for Everyone
I combine science, photography, and real field experience in one voice
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I explain complex ideas clearly, without oversimplifying
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I use real images, short videos, and field stories rather than slides full of text
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I’m used to engaging large groups and mixed-age audiences
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I focus on curiosity, empowerment, and practical ways to get involved
Citizen Science
I’m deeply passionate about tools that let anyone contribute to real science, regardless of background or training.
I regularly teach people how to use platforms like:
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iNaturalist
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eBird
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Merlin Bird ID
These tools turn everyday observations into valuable data used by scientists, conservation groups, and land managers around the world.
I show audiences:
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How easy it is to start
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How their observations are actually used
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Why consistent, local observations matter
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How citizen science builds connection, confidence, and stewardship
I’m also a Roundtable Member with the Howe Sound Biosphere Region Initiative, where I contribute to discussions around biodiversity, conservation priorities, and nature-based education.
Popular talk themes
Photography as a Tool for Science
How photographs are used in research for individual identification, animal health monitoring, behaviour studies, and long-term population tracking. Includes real examples from whales, birds, and large mammals.
Anyone Can Be a Naturalist
How to start noticing patterns, behaviour, and species using simple observation skills and free tools.
Citizen Science in Action
Using iNaturalist, eBird, and Merlin to turn curiosity into real-world data.
What You’re Actually Seeing in the Wild
How biologists interpret behaviour, movement, and interactions in real time.
Birds as Biodiversity Indicators
Why birds are one of the best ways to understand ecosystem health and change.
Life in the Ocean
Whales, seals, sea lions, and coastal ecosystems, with stories from whale watching tours and underwater work.
From Curiosity to Career
How an interest in nature can turn into work in biology, guiding, photography, and science communication.
Telling Better Nature Stories
Why strong visuals and clear storytelling help people care about place and conservation.
Formats
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In-person or virtual talks
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Classroom or school assemblies
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Youth workshops
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Community group presentations
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Conference or event sessions
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Short keynote-style talks or longer interactive sessions
What people get
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A visually rich presentation using original photography and video
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Clear explanations grounded in real field experience
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Practical tools and next steps audiences can try immediately
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Time for questions and discussion
Past examples
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Rotary Club presentation on photography as a scientific tool
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Speaking to a group of Maasai, Kikuyu, and Luhya people in Kenya about microscopic life in the water around them
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Guest speaking and onboard naturalist talks on whale watching tours
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Guest education sessions at safari camps and lodges
A look at storytelling
While at Lake Natron Camp in northern Tanzania I helped the guides structure their storytelling. Some of whom had not been to school beyond Primary school. I created a playlist of videos for them to use during their annual training meetings to equip them with Natron-specific storytelling skills.
