WORLDWIDE QUEST - Key Persons
As a former faculty member in the School of Environmental Sciences at the University of Guelph, Alan Watson taught nature interpretation, environmental stewardship and a conservation field course. With over 25 years of experience leading nature tours, Alan has guided groups in southern Ontario, Canada's Maritime Provinces, Trinidad and Tobago, the Lesser Antilles, Costa Rica, Brazil, Tanzania, and the Galapagos. More >
Amina Mohamed has always been passionate about photography, travel, and philanthropy. In 2018 Amina returned to photography full-time, combining her two greatest passions - photography and philanthropy. While on a photo tour with clients in Uganda, she saw the direct impact their dollars make through her Amina's Cameras For Girls Charity. More >
Andrea Cranmer and Donna Cranmer
Andrea Cranmer and Donna Cranmer are indigenous cultural leaders of the 'Namgis First Nation. Together the sisters are a powerhouse, teaching all aspects of Kwakwaka'wakw culture: history, language, ceremony, song, and dance. They are the co-founders of the Tsasa ̓ ła Cultural Group who have been sharing the rich Kwakwaka̱ 'wakw culture for 28 years. More >
Prince Edward County-area resident and expert naturalist and biologist Andrea Kingsley has over 35 years of experience in field biology and guiding through various environmental consultant jobs, teaching, and research projects. Many of her projects both in Ontario and across Canada have involved birds and she is highly experienced at field identification by sight and sound. More >
Angela Dacey has been an entrepreneur for over 20 years with her company Heaven & Earth Inc. Her mission is to "Inspire and Uplift the Spirit" in all her endeavours both personally and professionally. Angela's background in retail, marketing and personal development has led her to be a sought after professional speaker, trainer, marketing consultant and life advisor. She has been interviewed around the world in all forms of media for her knowledge and insight. Having held international healing retreats from Sedona to Mt. Tremblant to Paradise Island, Bahamas, and obtaining her travel agent license, Angela loves travel and believes it feeds the body, mind and soul.
Angela Dacey has been an entrepreneur for over 20 years with her company Heaven & Earth Inc. Her mission is to "Inspire and Uplift the Spirit" in all her endeavours both personally and professionally. She has been interviewed around the world in all forms of media for her knowledge and insight. More >
Job Titles:
- Science and Policy Engagement Officer
Anita Dey Nuttall is a Polar Science and Policy Engagement Officer and is on the faculty of the Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences at the University of Alberta. Anita is a past chair and current member of the Canadian Committee for Antarctic Research. She teaches resource management and environmental policy and has interests in science policy issues, the history and contemporary nature of national Antarctic programs, geopolitics, and sovereignty in the circumpolar regions. More >
Ann Haynes-Sutton is a conservation ecologist who has spent her working life in Jamaica. She is the senior author of "A photographic guide to the birds of Jamaica" published by Princeton University in 2009, and has been leading bird and natural history tours in Jamaica and other islands for many years. She lives at Marshall's Pen, near Mandeville, in the centre of Jamaica - a 310 acre cattle property and private nature reserve that is one of Jamaica's premier birding destinations. Her interest in birds and natural history started when she was growing up in England, becoming a passion when she came to live in Jamaica. She studied Jamaican seabirds for her Ph.D. Professionally, she focuses on ecology, protected areas management and conservation, environmental education and exhibit design. Her other interests include bird banding. She is involved with several NGOs including BirdsCaribbean and Caribbean Coastal Area Management Foundation and is a past president of the Natural History Society of Jamaica.
Here's what travellers have to say about Ann:
"Ann really was incredible. Very accommodating and knows EVERYTHING." - 2020 Jamaica traveller
"Ann is extremely knowledgeable about all things Jamaica." - Barbara P., 2017 Jamaica traveller
"She was so personable and always pumped and willing to answer questions and provide information." - Dayle C., 2017 Jamaica traveller
Ann Haynes-Sutton is a conservation ecologist who has spent her working life in Jamaica. She is the senior author of "A photographic guide to the birds of Jamaica" published by Princeton University in 2009, and has been leading bird and natural history tours in Jamaica and other islands for many years. More >
Ann Kirkland founded Classical Pursuits in 1999 and directed the company until 2021. She has been leading trips for Classical Pursuits and Worldwide Quest for more than 20 years. Ann loves walking, reading and good conversation. She is curious about the unique gifts of each culture, including the stresses and the synergy that can occur when they bump up against one another. More >
Job Titles:
- Historian
- Historian of the Soviet Union
Anne Gorsuch is an historian of the Soviet Union, and former Department Head, in the UBC History Department. A frequent traveller to Russia, she has published on the history of youth in revolutionary Russia, international tourism in the Khrushchev era, and Cuban-Soviet relations in the 1960s. More >
Bill and Sherry Glanville have coordinated and hosted numerous travel tours for WAG-Qaumajuq (Winnipeg Art Gallery). Bill Glanville is the former Vice-President for Institutional Strategy and Planning at the International Institute for Sustainable Development. Sherry Glanville is a member of the Executive of the Associates of the WAG-Qaumajuq.
Bonnie Chartier was born and raised in Churchill, Manitoba. As the daughter of a trapper, she spent many hours on the land learning about the local flora and fauna and gaining an appreciation for the outdoors.
Bonnie has been involved in Churchill's tourism industry since its inception and was instrumental in introducing the world to Churchill's Polar Bears, Belugas, birds, and natural history. The Manitoba Government recognized Bonnie for her entrepreneurship in the tourism industry with Manitoba Business Woman of the Year Award.
Early on in her career, Bonnie discovered her passion is birding. She has since become well known and highly regarded in the birding world for her expertise. Some years ago, she teamed up with Dr. James A. Lane and co-wrote the first of three Lane Publications, "The Birds of Churchill" books in conjunction with the American Birding Association. She is also heavily involved in Manitoba's Bird Atlas program, putting in hundreds of volunteer hours and thousands of kilometers mapping birds of Manitoba. In her spare time, Bonnie travels the globe pursuing her interest finding rare birds to cross off her "most wanted" list and moving on to the next. Anyone who meets Bonnie will appreciate her tremendous wealth of knowledge!
Bonnie Chartier was born and raised in Churchill, Manitoba. She has been involved in Churchill's tourism industry since its inception and was instrumental in introducing the world to Churchill's Polar Bears, Belugas, birds, and natural history. Bonnie's familiarity with the Churchill region is boundless and guests quickly appreciate her tremendous wealth of knowledge! More >
Boris Wise is a passionate naturalist, wilderness guide, and excellent photographer. He began his career guiding in Southeast Alaska, where he worked for 10 years before sailing on his first expedition cruise ship in 2010. Boris is a seasoned polar expedition explorer having sailed throughout Arctic Canada, along the coasts of Greenland, Antarctica and throughout Svalbard many times, among other places. He spends much of his professional and personal time exploring with his wife Eva Westerholm. More >
Job Titles:
- Professor of Biology at Western University
Brent Sinclair is a Professor of Biology at Western University. Brent's research on the physiology and ecology of insects and other arthropods has led him to spend more than a year of his life in the Antarctic and Sub-Antarctic. More >
Professor Bruno Tremblay, McGill University, is an associate professor in the Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences. His current research focuses on the presence of sea ice and snow at high latitudes and their effect on global climate and climate change. Bruno will discuss Antarctic ice sheet history and sea ice trends. More >
Bryn Turnbull is a bestselling author of historical fiction. Her debut novel, The Woman Before Wallis, is at the centre of our tour. She wrote about imperial Russia in her second novel, The Last Grand Duchess and she has a new novel, The Paris Deception, out now. More >
Wendy Holm (M.Sc., UBC, '74; M.M.C.C.U., Saint Mary's University, 2014) is an award-winning Canadian Agrologist, columnist, author and speaker. She led UBC's Global Seminar Series International Studies in Sustainable Agriculture Cuba from 2005 - 2017 and, since 1999, has taken just under 1,000 Canadian farmers, chefs and culinary students to Cuba to understand better what is happening in this tiny island nation. Editor/contributing author of the 1988 book Water and Free Trade, Wendy is a UBC Distinguished Alumni (2008), Queen's Medalist (1993, 2002), and Agrologist of the Year (2000).
"Wendy is awesome! Knowledgeable, kind, patient. A true leader." - 2017 alumni UBC Cuba traveller
"Wendy was excellent - she has so much knowledge to share about Cuba and in particular, the agricultural practices and farm-to-market information. There is no way we would have been able to glean this much (and type) of information travelling on our own." - 2017 alumni UBC Cuba traveller
Job Titles:
- Executive Director at Ontario Nature
Caroline Schultz is the Executive Director at Ontario Nature. Caroline has directed Ontario Nature's programs and operations since 2005. Caroline previously served as conservation director for the Canadian Nature Federation for 10 years, leading the organization's national advocacy, science and stewardship programs. More >
Job Titles:
- Leader With Women 's Travel Network
Carolyn Whitaker is a seasoned tour leader with Women's Travel Network. She uses her corporate leadership and organizational skills to ensure that each tour experience is worry free. Her sense of humour and passion for travel will make your tour fun and eventful. More >
Job Titles:
- Staff Ornithologist and Data Analyst
Catherine Jardine is a staff ornithologist and data analyst with Birds Canada, based at the organization's National Data Centre in Delta, B.C. She has conducted field projects in remote locations around the world and is the Bander-in-Charge at the Iona Island Bird Observatory. More >
Job Titles:
- Member of Nature Alberta 's Board of Directors
Cheryl Bozarth Soll is a member of Nature Alberta's Board of Directors, representing the Northern region of the Province. She holds a Conservation Biology Degree from the University of Alberta and has worked in the fields of ecological education, urban planning and event management.
Chris Earley is the University of Guelph Arboretum's Interpretive Biologist and Education Coordinator and a self-proclaimed 'nature geek'. He teaches workshops at the Arboretum, and participates in research around the world. Chris has led many previous Quest trips around the world. More >
Job Titles:
- Professor Emeritus of History at UBC
Chris Friedrichs is Professor Emeritus of History at UBC, where he taught European and world history for 45 years. Chris is an expert on German urban history and has travelled extensively in Germany and lectured at various German universities. He has also published two books on the history of pre-modern cities in Europe and received a UBC Killam Teaching Prize in 1997. More >
Chris Harley is a professor in the Zoology Department and in the Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries at UBC. He studies the forces that create ecological patterns in space and time in coastal ecosystems. Chris is particularly interested in how species interact with one another and respond to temperature, ocean acidification, and other challenges in their environment. More >
Job Titles:
- Associate Professor
- Canada Research Chair
Cole Burton is an Associate Professor and the Canada Research Chair (Tier 2) in Terrestrial Mammal Conservation in the Department of Forest Resources Management at UBC. He is a conservation biologist and wildlife ecologist with broad interests in using science to inform biodiversity conservation and human-wildlife coexistence. More >
Forty-five years of travelling (and almost as many countries) as a single, couple, mother, daughter, friend and employee, from back packer and independent traveller, to expat and being part of a tour group, has imbued Cynthia Hoy with a keen desire to instill a curiosity of the world and a love of travel and adventure in others. She loves meeting new people, learning about different cultures and making new friendships. More >
Dan Riskin, PhD, is a television personality, scientist, and author. He is best known in Canada as the co-host of Discovery's flagship science program, Daily Planet, and elsewhere as the host of Animal Planet's hugely successful show about parasites, Monsters Inside Me. He is passionate about wildlife, especially the underappreciated creatures that he thinks deserve a closer look. He has studied his favourite creatures, bats, all over the world, and is an authority on their biomechanics. Dan's first popular book, Mother Nature is Trying to Kill You was a Canadian bestseller.
Here's what travellers are saying about Dan:
"Dan was wonderful! Very enthusiastic, always willing to answer questions and offer help. His lectures were informative and fascinating! He added much to our experience of the Amazon, and I enjoyed having him as our tour leader." - Gillian L., Amazon 2020
"Dan was exceptionally good. Knowledgeable and organized. Good personality and looked after everyone." - Kathleen D., Central Panama 2019
"Very personable and considerate. He was entertaining and informative." - Patricia L., Borneo 2018
Dan Riskin, PhD, is a television personality, scientist, and author. He is best known in Canada as the co-host of Discovery's flagship science program, Daily Planet, and elsewhere as the host of Animal Planet's hugely successful show about parasites, Monsters Inside Me. He is passionate about wildlife, especially the underappreciated creatures that he thinks deserve a closer look. More >
Daniel is retired from a successful career which included roles of Executive Chef and Food and Beverage Director, with Hilton International and the Starwood Group of Hotels. His business travels took him to many locations throughout the USA , Canada and Internationally. Working in hospitality allowed Daniel to follow his passions of ethnic cooking, international cultures and ancient history. Daniel is always willing to share his years of culinary knowledge and expertise, to enhance the Tour experience. More >
David Lindo, also known as "The Urban Birder" is a broadcaster, writer, naturalist, photographer, public speaker, and tour leader. Through TV appearances, writing, talks, and travel, he inspires people to re-look at their urban environments and believes wildlife in urban areas is so easy to engage with; All we have to do is open our eyes, ears, hearts and minds and soon we will be linked into the nature around us. More >
Historian David Mendel is a renowned speaker and expert guide who has given tours for many visiting dignitaries, including heads of state and royalty. The author of best-selling guidebooks, he was honoured as Tourism Personality of the Year, in 2014, and awarded the Medal of the Quebec Historical Society, in 2015. He is a longtime resident of Quebec City and loves sharing his knowledge and passion for his home. More >
Job Titles:
- Co - Founder of the Symposium Great Books Institute
David Saussy is a co-founder of the Symposium Great Books Institute and a longtime Classical Pursuits leader. He has a BA and MA from St. John's College in Santa Fe and Annapolis, where he studied the history of science and mathematics, music, ancient Greek and modern French; and Eastern Classics, with a language concentration in ancient Chinese.
Job Titles:
- Founder and Owner of Deb K Fitness
Deb Kozlowski is the founder and owner of Deb K Fitness, which helps men and women over the age of 60 reach (and surpass) their health and wellness goals. She has been involved in the fitness industry as a professional since 1996.
Deb is committed to working closely with her clients, so that they remain functional as they age.
Making a difference in people's lives is very important to Deb. She does it in her practice and now will have the ability to maintain it as a trip leader for WTN.
Job Titles:
- Founder of Womens Travel Network
Debbie Ross, founder of Womens Travel Network has been providing travel services to her customers for over 30 years. Her travel around the globe has been extensive. Be it relaxing holidays, trekking or sports related, she has first hand knowledge of many varied travel experiences. More >
One of Canada's best-known theatre practitioners, Derek Boyes has been an actor and director in more than 150 productions from coast to coast in North America. He has been an ensemble member of The Soulpepper Theatre Company since 2004 and a resident artist there since 2008. More >
Doug McRae has made his life-long passion for birds and nature into a career that includes guiding world-wide, research, and biological consulting. He also teaches in the Fish and Wildlife program at Fleming College and is deeply involved in conservation through his work with the Northumberland Land Trust in Ontario. More >
Dr. Wendy O'Brien is a celebrated philosopher, teacher and interviewer. With over 30 years experience teaching in post-secondary education, she's given talks and led seminars on creativity, beauty and wonder at Humber College, Oxford University, Harvard, The Art Gallery of Ontario, The Women's Art Association, Classical Pursuits and The International Festival of Authors. More >
Dylan grew up in the city but fell in love with wild places and the creatures that inhabit them long before he could walk. It is this lifelong passion for experiencing, conserving and learning about nature has motivated his work. He is a professional ecologist with 10 years of experience on more than 175 diverse projects, and moonlights as a wilderness and wildlife guide. He has used this foundation, as an independent ecologist, on various contracts in academic research and ecology planning. Some project highlights include research on red squirrels, migratory shorebirds and hoary bats, as well as ecological protection planning in James Bay, impact mitigation planning in Nunavut and wetland restoration projects in Ontario. Additionally, Dylan has become highly involved as a technical skills trainer, and many of his past students have moved into full-time roles in the environmental sector.
Nicknamed the ‘Happy Camper' as a young kid, Dylan was bound for the outdoors. He started with canoe trips as a teenager, and later served as a canoe and whitewater guide in ON and BC. He now combines his love of travel and adventure with his passion for wildlife and the environment. A new Quest Nature Tours leader, Dylan is well-travelled with excursions spanning from Southern Africa to South America and the Arctic regions. He is also a devout musician!
Dylan White grew up in the city but fell in love with wild places and the creatures that inhabit them long before he could walk. It is this lifelong passion for experiencing, conserving and learning about nature has motivated his work. He is a professional ecologist with 10 years of experience on more than 175 diverse projects, and moonlights as a wilderness and wildlife guide. More >
A veteran Svalbard explorer and animal-loving outdoor enthusiast, Eva Molin Westerholm considers herself very lucky having explored many countries of the world in the last 15 years. The polar regions are of particular interest to her, and she cannot wait to share whatever can be found out there - whether it be a whale, bird, or the flora - nothing is too small to inspire investigation. More >
Faye Wightman, BSN'81 (Nursing)'s life work has focused on the not for profit sector as a leader and change agent focusing on philanthropy, management and governance. An exciting career heading up the largest community foundations and one of the top children's hospital foundations allowed her make an impact on thousands of lives. She has been recognized and received numerous awards including the City of Vancouver's Civic Medal for her community work, the Queens Jubilee medal and a Lifetime Achievement award from the Association of Fundraising Professionals. An avid traveller and alumni engagement leader, she has visited 40 countries, including China, Bhutan, Iran, Europe, Central America, Australia and India.
Faye Wightman, BSN'81 (Nursing) is a community and engagement leader and former Chair of the UBC Alumni Association. An avid traveller, she has visited 40 countries, including China, Bhutan, Iran, Australia, and India. Faye hosted UBC's "East Coast Extravaganza" tour to
Job Titles:
- Is Director of Alumni Engagement
Fred Lee is Director of Alumni Engagement at alumni UBC, and a regular contributor to The CBC, The Province, and Vancouver Magazine. A tireless volunteer, Fred had held numerous roles chairing various organizations. His efforts have been cited in many arenas, including the National Post's Worthy 30 list. Fred is mad about modernism and regularly attends Modernism Week. More >
Job Titles:
- Coordinator for the Maryland Breeding Bird Atlas
The Coordinator for the Maryland Breeding Bird Atlas, Gabriel Foley grew up on a small farm in southeastern Ontario, where his curiosity cultivated an appreciation and wonder for nature. After receiving a diploma in fish and wildlife conservation from Sault College, he headed west to Saskatchewan to pursue undergraduate studies in Biology. Subsequently he completed graduate studies on the Common Nighthawk. He then spent a year studying sparrow-weavers in South Africa. He has conducted wildlife surveys across North America and is an enthusiastic proponent of citizen science projects. Most recently, Gabriel worked as a Stewardship Coordinator for the Nature Conservancy of Canada in Saskatchewan, where he also hosted a nature radio show, The Prairie Naturalist, and volunteered as Saskatchewan's nightjar survey coordinator for WildResearch. Gabriel's current work aims to map out the distribution of birds breeding across Maryland and the District of Columbia. He is an obsessive birder and outdoorsman and is passionate about sharing his love of nature with others!
What travellers are saying about Gabriel:
"[Gabriel's services were] excellent. Would go with him again if the opportunity came up." - Ian D.
"Gabriel was very knowledgeable and continually ensured that our individual interests were being met." - Lynne P.
"Gabriel was very knowledgeable and personable and perfect for this job. He was very considerate ensuring everyone's needs were met and requests listened to." - Elaine B.
The Coordinator for the Maryland Breeding Bird Atlas, Gabriel Foley grew up on a small farm in southeastern Ontario, where his curiosity cultivated an appreciation and wonder for nature. After receiving a diploma in fish and wildlife conservation from Sault College, he headed west to Saskatchewan to pursue undergraduate studies in Biology. Subsequently he completed graduate studies on the Common Nighthawk. He is an obsessive birder and outdoorsman and is passionate about sharing his love of nature with others. More >
Job Titles:
- Professor of Geology at McGill University
Galen Halverson is a professor of geology at McGill University. He reads the history of our planet from ancient rocks in order to understand how the Earth system has behaved over billions of years. His current research focuses on tectonics, climate change and the evolution of ocean chemistry in deep time and the conditions under which complex life originated. More >
UBC alumnus Gary Lewis is the owner of Phoenix Perennials, a cutting edge retail nursery in Vancouver, and an expert on perennials and horticulture. He is one of Canada's most knowledgeable plant experts with a deep and special interest in rare and unusual herbaceous perennials. He recently published The Complete Book of Ground Covers. More >
Job Titles:
- Leader With Classical Pursuits
Gary Schoepfel has been a leader with Classical Pursuits from the start. He's former VP of the Great Books Foundation and is a faculty member at Harrison Middleton University faculty. A worshiper of the Bard, lover of beers, bibliophile, fair in the kitchen, and kayaking enthusiast, Gary thinks that all that myths tell us is already buried deep in our bones. More >
Gavan Watson is a third-generation naturalist and a second-generation Quest tour leader. While completing his PhD at York University, he developed and taught a popular experiential natural history course. Now at the University of Guelph, he works to enhance the quality of teaching and learning on-campus. More >
Geoffrey Hiller's photographic work has been published in magazines in the USA, Europe, and Japan including Geo, Newsweek, Mother Jones and the New York Times Magazine. His award-winning multimedia projects about Vietnam, Eastern Europe, Ghana, Burma, and Brazil have earned recognition from Apple, The Christian Science Monitor and USA Today. More >
Past-President of the Hamilton Naturalists' Club, Glenn Barrett has a degree in Wildlife Biology and has worked in outdoor education programming for educational institutions and as a Wildlife Technician for Environment Canada since 1994. More >
Graham Sorenson developed his interest in and love for the natural world through his undergraduate studies, years as a field biologist, and Master's degree at the University of Windsor, Ontario. His passion for birds took off during undergrad when he was a field research assistant on Kent Island, just south of Grand Manan. After years working as a bird biologist throughout Canada, Graham recently returned to New Brunswick as the Aerial Insectivore Conservation Coordinator with Birds Canada. More >
Greg Hare has lived in the Yukon for more than four decades, spending 30 years working as a field archaeologist with the Government of Yukon. He has worked throughout the territory and has published numerous articles on the human and natural history of Yukon. Greg is one of the pioneering researchers in the Yukon Ice Patch Project and one of the founders of the emerging field of Glacial Archaeology. He is an enthusiastic ambassador for the Yukon has led a variety a professional and conference tours of southern and central Yukon. More >
Greg Sharam is a wildlife biologist, spending his summers in the Canadian Arctic, working on large mammals: grizzly bears, muskox and caribou. He completed graduate work at UBC with a PhD (Zoology) in Serengeti National Park, Tanzania, and an MSc (Botany) in the Yukon Territory. His interests in wildlife biology and conservation and his role as technical director at Environmental Resource Management have taken him around the world. He is also an avid photographer.
"[Greg is] highy personable, extremely knowledgeable, great sense of humour. Very commendable." - 2016 Tanzania traveller
Job Titles:
- Associate Professor in UBC 's Department of English Language
Gregory Mackie is an Associate Professor in UBC's Department of English Language and Literatures specializing in Victorian and Modernist literature, drama, and book history. His book Beautiful Untrue Things: Forging Oscar Wilde's Extraordinary Afterlife (2019) examines a lost archive of Wilde forgeries that flooded the rare book market in the 1920s. More >
Heather Pelletier, BA'04, is the founder and lead facilitator of Nature's Boardroom. Heather's storytelling style uses the natural world as a lens to help people navigate their way in the modern world. Sustainability, well-being, and connection are woven into her innovative approach, but the true value of her work lies in helping people get in touch with their purpose to see a clearer path toward meaningful change. More >
Heather White, BA'03 is a highly sought-after speaker, trainer, writer, and executive life coach. She has worked with hundreds of executives and entrepreneurs, providing practical and applicable support and guidance as they pursue their goals both personally and professionally. More >
Born and raised in Portugal, Horacio Santos has led walking trips to various destinations. Horacio's love for the outdoors and enthusiasm for immersive travel is present in his style of guiding. More >
UBC alumnus Howard Soon is the longest serving winemaker in Canada, creating 37 consecutive vintages and winning countless awards for his winemaking. As the head winemaker at Sandhill from 1997 to 2017, his collaborative relationships with growers and non-interventionist approach have consistently led to award-winning, single vineyard wines. In 2019, Howard was named a member of the Order of Canada (C.M.) for his influence on the wine industry. More >
Ian Shanahan has guided throughout Canada and internationally from the Tropics to the Arctic. Over 13 seasons as an interpretive naturalist in Ontario's Presqu'ile and Algonquin Parks, his initial passion for birds spread to all life forms. Now, Ian captures his nature explorations through field sketching, photography, and writing. More >
UBC grad Jane Macdougall, a long-time columnist for The National Post, currently writes a reader engagement feature for Postmedia publications that appears in over 100 publications and platforms including the Vancouver Sun. You can join her in The Bookless Club where she spawns conversations that build community. Her professional career includes morning drive rock radio, weather forecasting for BCTV, and even hosting a game show! Her recent travels include Korea, Algeria, and Mexico.
Janice Mason Steeves is represented by galleries in Canada and the U.S., with work in public, corporate, and private collections in Canada and internationally. As well as an active one-on-one Art Mentoring program, Janice teaches painting workshops in Canada, the U.S., and Europe. She has also been awarded artist residencies in Spain, Ireland, Sweden, and Iceland. More >
Job Titles:
- Consultant With an Extensive Research Background With the Indian National Trust for Art
Jaya Basera is a heritage consultant with an extensive research background with the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage. An enthusiastic communicator, Jaya brings a real passion to her tours, connecting the arts to the people engaged in preserving traditions. More >
A veteran nature guide, Jean Iron is past President of the Ontario Field Ornithologists and retired school principal. She is active in trip leading and contributing to the written record of bird sightings.
Jeff de Jong is a horticulturalist, garden writer, and photographer based in Victoria, BC. He is the host of Gardening 101, a weekly radio show on CFAX 1070. More >
Job Titles:
- President of the Toronto Entomologists 's Association
President of the Toronto Entomologists's Association, Jessica Linton is a senior consulting biologist with a background in environmental resource studies. Based in Ontario, she manages a wide range of natural heritage projects including natural area inventories, research of the life histories of various animal species, species-at-risk recovery planning and environmental impact assessments. Jessica is also an avid traveller who has visited exciting destinations throughout Central and South America, Africa and North America. She has travelled to several of the Monarch butterfly overwintering colonies in central Mexico and recently led a wildly successful first Monarchs of Mexico tour, which is confirmed again in 2018! Jessica is an ideal host for this tour as she has participated in and coordinated a number of initiatives and studies focused on the Monarch and has appeared before the Ontario Environmental Review Tribunal as an expert witness on Monarch ecology. One might say Jessica is most passionate about butterflies and she has over 10 years of experience conducting butterfly surveys, behavioral monitoring, and migration studies. Jessica has also lived in Costa Rica where she worked as a guide and later as manager at the Monteverde Butterfly Gardens. During that time, she also travelled extensively through the country and its many habitats. She particularly loves Costa Rica's cloud forest and all of its sounds! Jessica is always excited to share her passion for the natural world with fellow avid travellers!
Jessica Linton is a consulting biologist who specializes in butterflies. Based in Ontario, her work has a heavy focus on species-at-risk including butterflies, the wildlife group about which Jessica is most passionate. She has over 10 years of experience conducting butterfly surveys, behavioral monitoring, and migration studies. More >
Jon Beasley-Murray is a professor UBC and chair of UBC's program in Latin American Studies. His research interests include Latin American cultural, literary, and political history and global latinidad. More >
Josh Vandermeulen is a professional Field Biologist and is an active and well-known member of Ontario's naturalist community. He regularly travels the province in pursuit of his two core interests, field herpetology and ornithology. More >
Judy Rogers is a former Chair of the UBC Alumni Association (2011 - 2014). She is a recipient of the Lieutenant Governor's Medal for Excellence in Public Service in BC and was recently awarded the Order of Canada for her outstanding contributions to municipal government and the community. Judy is based in Vancouver and is an active lover of the outdoors. Judy is a veteran of many walks, including as host of the alumni UBC Travel Club's "Peru's Sacred Valley" walk in 2018. Judy will be accompanied by our UK-based walking guide.
What travellers have to say about Judy:
"Judy is very skilled, experienced and fit for this walking tour, she lead by example. Judy is easy to talk to, very approachable, made everyone welcome and is fun to be around." - 2018 alumni UBC Peru Walking Tour traveller
Julia Zarankin is an award-winning writer and lecturer who regularly teaches courses to lifelong learners about Russian and European culture and literature. She regularly shares her passion for cultural history with Toronto audiences at Hot Docs Curious Minds, the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies, and the Royal Conservatory of Music.
Julian Dierkes is a prolific commentator on contemporary Mongolia through the media but also on the Mongolia Focus blog that he publishes. A Canadian ambassador once reported that Julian's blog posts are read at the Mongolian cabinet table. On a state visit to Mongolia in 2013, David Johnston awarded Julian/ a Governor General's Medallion for his contributions to Canadian-Mongolian bilateral relations. Julian grew up in West Berlin, attended UC Berkeley and later Princeton University, and after a stop-over as a post-doc at Cambridge University, he came to UBC in 2002, first as an assistant professor and now as an associate professor and the Keidanren Chair in Japanese Research at UBC's School of Public Policy and Global Affairs. Vancouver's role as a mining finance capital of the world provided him an opportunity to travel to Mongolia in response to a state visit of then-Mongolian President Bagabandi in 2004. Instantly, he was hooked and has kept visiting Mongolia since then, ultimately travelling there more than 20 times including trips with his wife and three kids for a three-week long stay with herders.
"Extremely well informed and connected to Mongolia. Julian was a great communicator and was able to convey lots of information about the economy, history and cultural aspects of Mongolia. Plus Julian was a great story teller." - Joan F., 2019 Mongolia traveller
Julian Dierkes is a prolific commentator on contemporary Mongolia through the media but also on the Mongolia Focus blog that he publishes. A Canadian ambassador once reported that Julian's blog posts are read at the Mongolian cabinet table. He came to UBC in 2002, first as an assistant professor and now as an associate professor and the Keidanren Chair in Japanese Research at UBC's School of Public Policy and Global Affairs. More >
Jusep Sim is the Founder and Chief Epicurean Officer (CEO) of Chopsticks+Forks, Toronto's top rated food tour. A world traveller and passionate food adventurer, he's travelled to over 55 countries eating his way through each one.
Justin Newell, art historian and artist, has lectured extensively on Western painting, sculpture, and architecture (from 1300 to 1963) at UBC and various Vancouver colleges, as well as leading art history tours to Venice, Florence, Rome, Paris, London, and other art centres of the world, weaving his knowledge of history, art, political events, and famous sights into his presentations. Justin recently taught the course "Venetian Painting: from the Renaissance to the Rococo Period" for UBC Extended Learning. More >
Job Titles:
- Principal
- Director of Its
Justin Peter is a Principal of Worldwide Quest and Director of its Quest Nature Tours branch. Prior to joining the company, Justin was the senior naturalist at Ontario's world-renowned Algonquin Park, where he coordinated the park's interpretive program and acted as lead howler for the celebrated Public Wolf Howl events. More >
Job Titles:
- Assistant Professor of Zoology and Botany at the University of British Columbia
Kaitlyn Gaynor is an assistant professor of Zoology and Botany at the University of British Columbia. Kaitlyn is a wildlife ecologist and conservation scientist who studies animal behavior, predator-prey interactions, and human-wildlife coexistence. More >
Born and raised in Calgary, Kari Richardson adorns many hats. She is a mother of 3 amazing young adults, is a professional artist and past owner of 3 incredibly successful bakeries to currently working as the Director of Partnerships for an Alberta-based children's charity. Her attention to detail and calm, positive, free spirit will make you feel welcome and excited to join her on the next adventure. More >
Born in Tokyo, Japan, Katsu Sakuma had already established himself in the paddling business before moving to Canada with his family in 1999. It was therefore a natural move to begin his career in Canada as a canoe guide in Algonquin Park. With an active interest in natural history and wild spaces, he expanded his activities to Vancouver Island as well as the Yukon River. Since 2007, Katsu has worked as a Seasonal Park Naturalist in Algonquin Park during each fall colour season. He is passionate about connecting Canadians and visitors to our country's vast wild spaces! More >
A graduate of the University of Guelph, Kyle Horner is a consummate environmental educator and well-travelled, lifelong naturalist who can proudly say he's been birdwatching since before he could walk! He has also worked as a field technician for a variety of research projects. He is currently the NatureCounts Engagement Coordinator at Birds Canada, where he helps to build awareness and adoption of that innovative bird data platform. Kyle is also completing a book on turtles of North America, to be released in 2024! More >
L. John Harris is a food writer, filmmaker, cartoonist and cookbook publisher. He played a founding role in the food revolution that started in Berkeley, California, in the late '60s and spread across North America. Harris is the author of The Book of Garlic, Foodoodles and Café French, among others. From his earliest visits to Paris in 1963, he has been drawn to the "third space" of the café as a place to work, daydream, observe and seek inspiration. More >
Larry Beasley, CM is an internationally known urban planner. Formerly Chief Planner for the City of Vancouver, he is largely credited with the transformation of its downtown core along New Urbanism lines, known as Vancouverism or "The Vancouver Model". His two books, "Ecodesign for Cities and Suburbs" (Island Press) and "Vancouverism" (UBC Press) are excellent references in anticipation of the tour. Larry's partner, Sandy Logan is the Principal Associate of Beasley & Associates and will also be joining us on tour. More >
Laurielle is one of the principals of Worldwide Quest, managing director, designer of new programs and planner of Signature Moments. She works principally with our Cultural Explorations portfolio and with customized travel programs for cultural institutions and affinity groups.
Job Titles:
- Professor in UBC 's Earth
Lee Groat is a Professor in UBC's Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences department. Since 2012 Prof. Groat has led an annual 17-day course in Iceland for senior undergraduates covering the geology, climate, flora, fauna, and human settlement of Iceland, and factors that are impacting them today. Lee is a keen student of the Iceland sagas and is learning Iceland. Past travellers have enjoyed stories of his adventures in geology in Canada and abroad. More >
Lesley Green has travelled a great deal and understand the joys of new adventures that last a lifetime in ones memory. Lesley feels it's important when we travel to have someone who cares, is kind, a good listener, well organized, enthusiastic, and flexible.
Lewie Gonsalves, our peripatetic president, has over 40 years' experience researching and organizing trips throughout the world. As well as designing and leading our President's Tours, Lewie is also chief designer of our Private Journey collection of tailored tours. More >
Originally from the Pacific Northwest, Liam Singh grew up with a deep fascination for the ecosystems and organisms of western North America, honing his naturalist skills along the rocky intertidal beaches around Victoria, BC. Liam has taken his passion for biodiversity worldwide through both his work assignments and personal travels. An excellent birder, Liam's interests also extend to reptiles, insects and marine invertebrates, in addition to photography and art. More >
Liron Gertsman is an expert naturalist and guide as well as an award-winning photographer. A graduate of the University of British Columbia's biology program, Liron is based in BC and has explored and guided across all corners of this magnificent province.
Lisa Pasold is a Canadian writer who divides her time between Paris and New Orleans. She is currently the host of Discovery's travel show, "Paris Next Stop." She has published a novel and three books of poetry.
Job Titles:
- Life Coach
- Personal Life Coach
Lori Dalton is an enthusiastic tour leader, personal life coach and gifted speaker. She uses her excellent people skills to ensure that everyone is enjoying, learning and growing while on tour with her. Her joie de vivre makes every journey with her fun-filled and stress free. More >
Lynette Hartley has worked in the conservation field in New Zealand for over 20 years. She is passionately invested in protecting New Zealand's threatened native ecosystems, and is active in habitat restoration activities. Lynette is also an accomplished nature artist. She will look forward to hosting you on our tour! More >
Lynn Kanuka is an Olympic medalist and WalkRun coach. She is best known for her Bronze medal performance at the Los Angeles Olympic Games in 1984. For over 25 years Lynn has inspired people of all ages and ability levels through physical fitness to take steps toward better health, achieve personal goals, and be active and happy.
Manoj Abraham heads up the logistics team in our Delhi office. Whether designing tours with a painstaking attention to detail or leading our travellers across Asia, Manny draws on his exceptional network of contacts to create intimate and enriching experiences. More >
Manuel Grosselet has been a field ornithologist and bird guide for more than two decades, with a particular interest in Mexico. In addition to having completed numerous field studies on birds internationally, he has produced three bird field guides covering Mexico's bird life.
Marc Bassingthwaighte's life has always revolved around the outdoors. Born and bred in Namibia, he and his family took many childhood camping trips, during which Marc developed a love for birds, while getting to know their plumages and vocalizations. With a strong knowledge of Namibia's flora, fauna, geology, and history, Marc is well positioned to welcome you to his fascinating homeland. More >
Marc Webber is a marine mammal specialist with an undergraduate and graduate degree from San Francisco State University. He has worked as a biologist and refuge manager for non-profit organizations and the US government for his entire career in places all over the United States. More >
Marisa Mae has trained clients 1:1 and in small groups for over 12 years from her base in Vancouver, British Columbia. She creates and leads programs, workshops, and workouts for UBC Faculty of Medicine Department of Paediatrics and BC Children's Hospital staff. More >
Marisa Mae has trained clients 1:1 and in small groups for over 12 years from her base in Vancouver, British Columbia. She creates and leads programs, workshops, and workouts for UBC Faculty of Medicine Department of Paediatrics and BC Children's Hospital staff. Marisa is a BCRPA registered Personal Trainer and has certifications as a specialized instructor in Weight Training, Older Adults, Yoga Fitness, Hardstyle Kettlebell and Precision Nutrition.
She believes fitness can (and should be) fun! It's just a matter of finding something that you enjoy. She is passionate about educating clients so they can achieve long term results and health, rather than short term quick fixes that don't last. She loves motivating people to accomplish more than they think they are capable of and is constantly inspired by what her clients achieve. Her love of life, a good laugh, and positive energy are contagious.
"Marisa is so accessible and inspiring!" - Anne S.
Mark Cwik is education manager and a longtime seminar leader for Classical Pursuits. Mark currently lives in London, England, where he leads seminars with the London Literary Salon. More >
Martyn (Marty) Obbard is an emeritus research scientist and the former resident bear biologist with the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, and adjunct professor at Trent University (Peterborough, Ontario). He is a member of the IUCN-Species Survival Committee's Polar Bear Specialist Group and is a former Chair of the Canadian Federal/Provincial/ Territorial Polar Bear Technical Committee. His field work focuses on Polar Bears and Black Bears, and he has published many papers detailing the demographics, genetics, and movements of these species.
Meera Kachroo is an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Religion and Culture at St. Thomas More College in Saskatoon (Treaty 6). In both research and teaching, she highlights the perennial texts and teachings of Asian religions and how they flourish in modern lives. More >
Megan Daniels has worked as an archaeologist for over 20 years. She has undertaken archaeological fieldwork in numerous countries, including Canada, Bermuda, Greece, Italy, Macedonia, Turkey, and Tunisia. She first visited Tunisia on a study tour in 2009, as a graduate student studying ancient North Africa at UBC. More >
Job Titles:
- Executive Director of Classical Pursuits and Organizer
- Writer
Melanie Blake is the executive director of Classical Pursuits and organizer of the annual Toronto Pursuits cultural salon. She studied English and French at Fordham University and the Université de Montpellier, and has an MA in literature and linguistics from the University of Nottingham. She loves languages, cocktails, and the unexpected. More >
Melissa Ross is an experienced and passionate traveler always seeking the big adventures in life. Born and raised in Toronto and now calling Vancouver Island her home, Melissa lives to discover the world. With a flair for languages and a drive to be fully immersed in other cultures, Melissa has spent time living abroad in Italy, Spain, and Morocco. More >
Michael Gervers is a medieval historian who has taught at the University of Toronto for the past 40 years. He has travelled and researched extensively throughout Ethiopia and is particularly familiar with the sites along the historic route to the north. More >
Michelle Sitbon completed her Undergraduate studies in Art and Masters of Information Science in Israel and graduated with a certificate of advanced studies from the Library and Information Science Department at UBC. More >
Mike Kent is an excellent all-round naturalist and educator based in southwestern Ontario.
A graduate of the Unversity of Guelph with a background in ecology and geography, Mike worked during his student years as a Park Naturalist at Ontario's Killbear Provincial Park and the famous Algonquin Provincial Park, and as a Tour Manager at the Monteverde Butterfly Gardens in Costa Rica's highland cloud forests. Since graduation, Mike works full-time as an Arborist with the City of Sarnia. He has a keen and abiding interest in all life forms with a particular fondness for insects, fungi and other under-appreciated groups. Mike is active as a volunteer with various conservation groups, notably Lambton Wildlife, his ‘home' naturalist group in Sarnia, Ontario. Mike has led our past tours to Trinidad & Tobago and our Pelee Island spring birding getaways, and regularly participates in Quest Nature Tours weekends at Point Pelee National Park's Festival of Birds as a walk leader. You can be assured of benefiting from his excellent observational and interpretive skills whenever you are on tour with him!
Mike Kent is an excellent all-round naturalist and educator based in southwestern Ontario. He has worked as a Park Naturalist at Ontario's Killbear Provincial Park and the famous Algonquin Provincial Park, and as a Tour Manager at the Monteverde Butterfly Gardens in Costa Rica's highland cloud forests. He has a keen and abiding interest in all life forms with a particular fondness for insects, fungi and other under-appreciated groups. More >
Job Titles:
- Member of the Kwikwasut'Inuxw Haxwa'Mis
Mike Willie is a proud member of the Kwikwasut'inuxw Haxwa'mis people, from the Kwakwaka'wakw, the Kwak´wala-speaking people, made up of 18 tribes whose territory reaches from what is now northern Vancouver Island southeast to the middle of the island, and to smaller islands and inlets such as Johnstone Strait. He is active in exercising traditional laws that protect these lands and waters for future generations. More >
Job Titles:
- Owners of Birch Block Vineyard
UBC graduates Sarah Bancroft and Murray Bancroft are the owners of Birch Block Vineyard in Kaleden, South Okanagan. They have an extensive network of winery contacts in France and lived in Paris for a year. More >
Job Titles:
- UBC Opera Ensemble Director
UBC Opera Ensemble Director Nancy Hermiston's operatic career has taken her throughout Canada, the United States and Europe. The consummate opera expert, Nancy is as knowledgeable as she is congenial. More >
Nanette Snel is a seasoned and passionate traveller. Born in Venezuela, raised in Holland with ties to Portugal, Brazil and South Africa, travel is in her blood. Nanette will make sure your tour is memorable and that every need is taken care of - with a smile. More >
Nathalie Wright is an experienced traveler and has had a passion for travel all her life. She has a long list of places left to visit, and re-visit. Nathalie is an organizer and planner who loves to research, and problem solve in all aspects of life, including travel. More >
Nathan is a naturalist-in-training with Worldwide Quest. In recent years, he has been pursuing studies in Zoology at UBC's Okanagan campus and working during his summers as a Seasonal Park Naturalist at Algonquin Provincial Park. An avid and budding explorer, Nathan's travels have taken him to the India's Western Ghats for a school research project, and he previously worked as an intern at the Monteverde Butterfly Gardens in the Costa Rican highlands. Nathan is a second-generation expedition naturalist with a deeply ingrained and keen interest in communicating natural history to others.
Nella Cotrupi is an Italian-born literary critic, scholar, educator, and lawyer with a life-long passion for the literary and visual arts. She takes an interdisciplinary approach to her subjects and focuses on the intersection between art, biography, society, and the evolution of ideas.
Nico Visser is our favourite Namibian leader. Hailing from the country's southeast, he is well versed in all the country's vast wild spaces and he has an exceptional ability to spot wildlife. Quest travellers particularly appreciate his affable and caring manner. More >
A resident of Rankin Inlet, Page Burt has lived and worked for many years in the Arctic. She is the longtime staff naturalist at the famous Bathurst Inlet Lodge. A botanist by training, she has conducted floral surveys in many areas of the Arctic. She has keen insights on life in the Arctic and has been a popular resource staff aboard our Canada's Northwest Passage expedition More >
Pamela Duynstee has been exploring the remote reaches of B.C. since 2016 as a guide and professional in sustainable tourism. With an MSc in Tourism and International Development, she is dedicated to supporting responsible tourism development in small and rural communities on northern Vancouver Island and across BC. More >
Job Titles:
- Eclectic Art Director of Quest Nature Tours
Patricia A. Shaw is the Founding Chair (1996-2014) of the First Nations Languages Program at University of British Columbia, and Professor of Anthropological Linguistics with particular interests in sound systems; the interface of phonology with phonetics and morphology; literacy and oral traditions; language contact and change. More >
Patrick Moldowan is a devoted lifelong interpretive naturalist with a special interest in herpetology and biogeography. Currently pursuing his doctoral studies at the University of Toronto, he also devotes considerable time to long-term studies of amphibians and turtles at Algonquin Park's Wildlife Research Station.
Named Top Chef Canada in 2019, Paul Moran is a chef and forager who has solidified his place as a culinary leader in the country. The idea that learning never ends has powered Paul Moran's motivation to continue to share both wild food and the knowledge on how to incorporate it into a healthy, joyous lifestyle. More >
Paula Swart is a museum curator and expert on Asian culture and history. Paula has degrees in Sinology, Asian art history, Chinese history, and archaeology and has published several books and numerous articles on the art and architecture of Asian cultures. Paula is a lecturer at the University of British Columbia and has recently been teaching courses on UNESCO World Heritage sites at the UBC Summer Institute and the University of Victoria. More >
Hailing from Mumbai, Payal Mehta was raised a city girl but has always loved the outdoors, and has branched out much beyond her formal training in geology to become well-versed in India's wonderful wildlife and varied habitats. She is our choice naturalist guide in India and our Quest travellers always delight at her skill in interpreting India's nature and cultures too. She knows India's Ladakh region well with previous experience on Snow Leopard expeditions. More >
Job Titles:
- Instructor Emeritus in Political Science and Interdisciplinary Studies at Langara College
Peter Prontzos MA'86, Instructor Emeritus in Political Science and Interdisciplinary Studies at Langara College in Vancouver has taught Political Science for over 25 years. His articles have appeared in print and online and he has worked in both radio and television. Peter's personal ties to Greece make his tours a very special experience.
Job Titles:
- Professor of Oceanography at UBC
Philippe Tortell is a Professor of Oceanography at UBC, and Head of the Department of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences. He has conducted oceanographic research expeditions around the world from the Arctic to the Antarctic, measuring marine biological productivity and the oceanic concentration of dissolved ‘climate-active' gases, including carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide. His work focuses on the development of ship-board automated sensors, field experiments and the use of satellite-based remote sensing observations. More >
Rick was the Host and Producer of SOUND ADVICE, the weekly guide to classical music and recordings, heard across Canada on CBC. He's often a juror in the classical music categories for the Juno Awards. Rick holds a B. Mus. from McGill University and a M. Mus. from the University of Toronto.
Here's what travellers are saying about Rick:
"Rick was the reason we booked the tour, and he never disappoints. He is excellent in dealing
with diverse personalities, different expectations and levels of understanding of culture and music. He raised the level of the tour not just with his presentations, but with his thoughtfulness, warmth, and wit." - Yvonne R., 2018 traveller to the Baltics
Rick was the Host and Producer of SOUND ADVICE, the weekly guide to classical music and recordings, heard across Canada on CBC. He's often a juror in the classical music categories for the Juno Awards. Rick holds a B. Mus. from McGill University and a M. Mus. from the University of Toronto. More >
Rita Plaskett is a passionate and fun filled leader who has been in the travel and meeting industry for over 25 years. Rita owns a meeting/conference event management company and travels extensively around the world. As well as owning a company, Rita is a trip director for over 10 years taking people to fabulous locations, ensuring that each and every participant has that "unique, exceptional" experience that is how they expect their experience to be.
Rowena Lamy was born in Guyana, South America. At age 20, she migrated to pursue Undergraduate studies and has since made Canada her home. She is an experienced, enthusiastic international traveller for both business and pleasure.
A long and successful Information Technology (IT) career including roles as a Management Consultant, and Corporate Director, has afforded her the opportunity to work in multiple cities in Canada, and internationally in the U.S.A, the U.K., Europe, Mexico and the Caribbean. Rowena's IT career created her rich tapestry of skills and capabilities which equip her to be an effective WTN Tour leader. She is a natural organizer and problem solver with a calm and easy-going demeanor, who creates the perfect ambiance for her WTN customers to enjoy their vacation. Her enthusiasm for travel along with her passion for collaboration and integration, means that no client will be left behind AND a memorable experience will be had by all!
Rowena lives in Toronto, with her husband, Daniel. Their 2 adult (millennial) sons, have now successfully flown the nest, so they are savouring the joy of empty nest, retirement living.
Rowena Lamy was born in Guyana, South America. At age 20, she migrated to pursue Undergraduate studies and has since made Canada her home. She is an experienced, enthusiastic international traveller for both business and pleasure. More >
Ruthi Segal was born in South Africa, has lived in Toronto for over 45 years and has travelled extensively all her life. A consummate people person, her positive attitude, sense of humour and infectious spirit of adventure ensures your trip experience will be exceptional. More >
Sarah Bancroft is a Canadian media personality currently based in Vancouver with a home in Palm Springs. She co-founded the trendsetting web-native magazine VitaminDaily in 2004 which was acquired by Glacier Media in 2013. Before that, Bancroft was a senior editor at Vancouver magazine, and at FASHION magazine. She holds a Master's degree in Political Science, speaks English and French, and is fluent in all matters sartorial. More >
Sarah Richardson is a historian of the arts and religions of South Asia with a specialization in Buddhist visual and material practice. Sarah holds a PhD from the University of Toronto (2016), and is currently teaching courses as a Lecturer in the History of Religions for the Department of Historical Studies at the University of Toronto Mississauga. This year (2018-19) she is also serving as the Interim Director of the Robert H. N. Ho Family Foundation Centre for Buddhist Studies at the University of Toronto. She especially enjoys teaching courses on the ways that the arts are used in religious contexts.
Scott Shafer is a recent college graduate and regular attendee of Toronto Pursuits based in the Bay Area, where he's pursuing a career in museum studies. Trained in Greek and Roman history at Carleton College, he loves to share his passion for classical antiquity and always seeks to find common ground between past and present. More >
Job Titles:
- Historian
- Professor of History at Memorial University
Born and raised on the island of Newfoundland, Sean Cadigan is a professor of history at Memorial University and author of award-winning books including Newfoundland and Labrador: A History (2009). Sean combines an encyclopedic knowledge of the province's traditions and culture with a congenial storytelling style. More >
Sean Forester is a San Francisco-based artist and lecturer. He lived in Italy for ten years and trained as a classical painter at the Florence Academy of Art. Sean is Director of Art History, Humanities, and Composition at the Golden Gate Atelier. He loves to share his passion for art and has led tours in Europe for Classical Pursuits and Context Travel. A Rotary Scholar, Sean has a B.A. from The Great Books Program at St. John's College and an M.A. in English Literature from Cambridge University.
Proud UBC graduate Shakeela Begum is an inspiring and sought after leadership advisor and coach, with experience leading groups on international active adventures. Her focus on wellbeing and her energetic and welcoming personality bring warmth and depth of purpose to her tours. More >
Sherry Kirkvold brings a deep love of nature along with her more than 30 years of experience as a naturalist, geographer and expedition leader. She has worked in the national, provincial and regional park systems as well as museums in British Columbia.
Job Titles:
- Certified Life Coach
- Life Coach
Susan Jones is a certified Life Coach with an insatiable love of learning and a passion for adventure and travel. Believing that "we are the total of all of our life's experiences", she is devoted to capturing some awesome and colorful ones through travel. Susan brings a wealth of knowledge and experience with emphasis on attention to detail, effective communication and leadership skills. More >
Suzanne Bodner has created and led tours to France, England, Italy, Canada and the US for more than 10 years. Her first career was as a teacher of ESL to francophones at institutions in France and Canada. More >
Sylvia Chrobak has spent over 20 years in the postsecondary sector in Alberta joining the Wirth Institute for Austrian and Central European Studies at the University of Alberta in the spring of 2003. Her leadership role as Executive Manager of the institute has her oversee the implementation of all Wirth Institute programs including the operationalizing of its scholarly and academic activities. More >
Vikram Vij is an Indian-born Canadian chef, cookbook author, and television personality. He is a passionate supporter of the sustainable food industry and has championed many causes including the Vancouver Aquarium's Ocean Wise Sustainable Seafood Program and the UBC Farm. His dedication to the work done at UBC resulted in the funding and opening of Vij's Kitchen, a state-of-the-art culinary facility at UBC's Faculty of Land and Food Systems dedicated to teaching the chefs and nutritionists of the future about ethnic food and cuisine. In recognition of his many contributions to the Vancouver community, he was awarded an honourary doctorate from UBC in May, 2016.
Vikram Vij is an Indian-born Canadian chef, cookbook author, and television personality. He is a passionate supporter of the sustainable food industry and has championed many causes including the Vancouver Aquarium's Ocean Wise Sustainable Seafood Program and the UBC Farm. More >
Job Titles:
- Associate Professor in UBC 's Department of English Language
- Professor
Vin Nardizzi is an Associate Professor in UBC's Department of English Language and Literatures specializing in English Renaissance literature, especially Shakespeare and Environmental Humanities. His first book, Wooden Os: Shakespeare's Theatres and England's Trees (2013) brings into view the forest and the trees of English Renaissance drama. More >
For more than 30 years Wayne Walder has practiced meditation from a number of spiritual traditions. He has chanted Dzikr with Sufi Pir's (saints), sung spiritual songs with Hindu priests, and sat in meditation with Buddhist monks. Wayne is a practicing Unitarian Universalist minister in Toronto. More >
Wendy Holm (M.Sc., UBC, '74; M.M.C.C.U., Saint Mary's University, 2014) is an award-winning Canadian Agrologist, columnist, author and speaker. More >