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
Program Director – Communications & Development
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
Kendra Salvatore
Youth Program Coordinator
Hello! I’m Kendra and I joined Youth in Food Systems as a summer staff member in 2023 and I am very grateful and excited to be a part of this program again. I recently obtained my BES in Environment, Resources and Sustainability and have a diploma in Ecological Restoration and Rehabilitation.
I really enjoy being involved in YFS because this program showcases how important and impactful it is to connect to our local food system. This program aims to support youth in gaining the knowledge and skills they need to become powerful members of our communities. The work that YFS is doing means a lot to me because I believe sustainable communities are built on programs like this who support the environment and each other.
Email: kendra@seeds.ca
Hannah Paolini
Youth Program Assistant
Hi, I’m Hannah and I’m excited to work with Youth in Food Systems for the first time this summer as a Youth Program Assistant! I recently earned my Bachelor of Knowledge Integration and I’m returning to school this fall to pursue a Master of Public Service. I’m passionate about sustainable living, community engagement, and advocating for youth involvement in all of the above!
I have worked with different youth programs for the past three years, and this summer I am looking forward to supporting some awesome activities. I’m most excited to help our youth learn new skills, spend time connecting with nature, and discover career paths in the food sector! I think YFS is an amazing program because it combines education and hands-on activities to empower youth to become leaders for a more sustainable future. I appreciate the work that YFS does because I believe everyone, no matter if you live in an urban city of 500,000 or a farming community of 500, should know where their food comes from!
Teanna Allen-Lisk
Youth Program Assistant
Hey! I’m Teanna, this is my first year on the Youth in Food systems team. I love spending time in nature and sharing my appreciation for the outdoors by teaching skiing, participating in outdoor education programs and volunteering with food access programs.
I am passionate about providing equitable access to food and am excited to be part of this program, giving those the tools to mobilize, learning how to grow food, and engage with their local food systems and community.
Sierra Radovini
Youth Program Assistant
Hi everyone! I’m Sierra and I first joined YFS in the Summer of 2024 and am back for 2025. I working on a Master’s degree with a focus on youth health research. My academic background has taught me that food sustainability is extremely important to the well-being of future generations and that we can encourage sustainability by empowering youth. In working with YFS this summer, I’ll have the opportunity to combine my passion for food sustainability with my commitment to improving youth health, all while making a positive impact in the community!