OUR TEAM
Andrew Jackson
Program Manager
Hello! I’m Andrew. I originally joined Youth in Food Systems back in 2020 as a summer staff and returned for summer 2023. I’m now back with YFS for the third time and stepping into the role of Program Manager. I have a Masters in Environmental Studies and am passionate about creating impactful opportunities to strengthen our communities and improve our relationship with nature…… that’s why I think YFS is awesome!
This is a project that exists within and throughout communities all across Waterloo Region with the chance to not just impact youth but, through our youth volunteers, impact all community members that our programs impact!
Email: andrew@seeds.ca
Rayna Almas
Communications & Development Lead
Hi everyone! I’m Rayna and I joined Youth in Food Systems back in 2019 as a summer student while finishing up my BASc. in Child, Youth, and Family at the University of Guelph. This work then inspired me to pursue graduate studies in Food Security and Urban Agriculture.
Our program means a lot to me because young people should understand how interesting, complex, and worthwhile food systems work can be, and the possibilities that exist for them to be agents of change. I am grateful to be able to spend my time contributing to and advancing youth leadership and skill building in a sector that should matter a lot to all of us: food!
Email: rayna@seeds.ca
Sierra Radovini
Youth-Led Markets & School Gardens Co-Lead
Hi everyone! I’m Sierra and I joined the YFS team this summer as a youth program coordinator, specifically working as one of the youth-led markets and school garden leads. I’ve recently graduated from the University of Waterloo with a Bachelor’s in Public Health, where I’ve learned about the importance of food sustainability and its role in the well-being of future generations. In working with YFS this summer, I’ll have the opportunity to combine my passion for food sustainability and gardening with my commitment to improving youth health through research. I’m hoping to use this opportunity to positively impact my community!
Tracy Tran
Youth-Led Markets & School Gardens Co-Lead
Hey everyone! My name is Tracy and I’m super excited to be a part of the YFS team this summer as a youth-led market and school garden co-lead. I’m currently a second year undergrad student pursuing a bachelors of environmental studies in urban planning. I’m passionate about youth mental health, sustainability, food systems, and urban agriculture so I’m eager to be involved with youth-led projects and creating exciting spaces for youth to be creative.