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Who We Are

Learn more about the dedicated and energetic individuals who make up the CPAWS Manitoba team:

 

Ron Thiessen
Executive Director

Ron Thiessen

Ron Thiessen has worked professionally in the conservation arena for the last 18 years.

Ron's efforts began with Greenpeace where he was primarily involved in education and fundraising. He worked in 10 Canadian cities in his eight years with the organization.

Ron spent the next six years as Director of the Western Canada Wilderness Committee's Manitoba office. In January 2006, he began his post as Executive Director of CPAWS Manitoba.

Ron employs his experience in community, media, industry, and government relations to achieve protected areas and safeguard wildlife. His efforts have lead the way to creating protected areas such as the Manigotagan River provincial park as well as halting logging in important woodland caribou habitats. He has also been influential in achieving extended protection for Fisher Bay, Poplar/Nanowin Rivers, and Sturgeon Bay park reserves. Most recently, logging in Manitoba’s provincial parks was finally banned thanks to the efforts of outspoken citizens and environmental groups in which Ron’s leadership at the Wilderness Committee and CPAWS was a key driver.

Born and raised in Manitoba, Ron is an avid outdoor enthusiast who enjoys photography and playing music.

Chanda Hunnie
Coordinator

Chanda Hunnie

Chanda Hunnie is the Coordinator of the CPAWS Manitoba Chapter. An honours graduate with majors in Environmental Studies and English, Chanda is interested in the issues that affect the natural world and the wildlife and peoples that depend on it. Chanda’s responsibilities include managing CPAWS MB programs and conducting many of the communications and administration for the chapter. Her experience in logistical support, planning, communications, and reporting ensures the efficient and organized implementation of CPAWS operations.

 

 

Lindsey Koepke
Public Outreach Coordinator

Lindsey Koepke

With an educational background in International Relations and current studies in Architecture, Lindsey is enthusiastic about integrating both urban and natural environments and increasing awareness about sustainable practices. As public outreach coordinator, she hopes to learn more about different organizations and meet new people!

Other interests include photography, dance, and making music.