"Going into this position I think I was most excited about knowing how many new (to me) ideas I would encounter. This 100% happened! But I think I have most loved working with all of the Knowledge Gatherers to help them build on what they’re already passionate about to turn it into something that can help park leaders".

"I’ve had past internships and jobs in the environmental field, but this was the first parks and protected areas related experience. I see myself as either going down the career route, in government policy or private consulting related to protected areas or species at risk management; or completing my PhD and staying in academia to conduct research".

"In the beginning, I thought CPCIL was more of just a research position looking at articles and combing through the interwebs. But when we got to writing the blogs, the stories, and actually sharing them, that helped me look within myself as to how I could best help. That’s why I shifted from public safety to more newcomer programmes or outdoor recreation introductory programmes, because it resonated so much with my own experience".

"I enjoyed how I was able to capitalize on my strengths to inform my work with CPCIL. My background as an artist came in handy with the blog posts I wrote in collaboration with park leaders, and I was able to use my communication skills to help facilitate workshops and webinars. I also enjoyed how my colleagues stressed the importance of empathy and good communication as necessary steps towards collaboration."

"Something I found the most enjoyable during my time at CPCIL was the opportunity to work closely with park leaders to learn and contribute to their projects. There was always something to pick up during those meetings, especially with the Capstone team."

"My biggest take away as a Youth Knowledge Gatherer has been a realization that there are so many talented and passionate people working in the Canadian Parks system- coast to coast to coast! It’s been very inspiring to get to work with such a diverse range of “parkies!"

"One thing that I really enjoyed about working with CPCIL is the fact that the team here celebrates and encourages the unique traits that everyone brings to the table. I saw this both in our individual meetings and one on one conversations, and at a larger scale when we look at the types of projects the network is supporting and uplifting. I love that CPCIL is helping to operationalize the changes that we have been talking about as a parks collective for so long"