Luke Ehler (he/him)

How are you using education to build more sustainable and equitable communities? Tell us about your EE work and impact.

To me, the key to building a sustainable and equitable future is helping people see themselves as part of the change that will bring about that future. That is why I’m a champion of expanding access to quality outdoor experiential education programming–especially for youth. Using direct experiences, followed by focused reflection, I create impactful opportunities for learning and growth that can last a lifetime.

I have spent the last 5 years launching and growing two national education programs with the Canadian Wildlife Federation for youth ages 15-30. These programs are WILD Outside and the Canadian Conservation Corps Flex (or CCC Flex). Both are no-cost programs designed to provide barrier-free opportunities for young Canadians to connect with nature and engage with conservation, using action and adventure to address feelings of apathy and eco-anxiety. To date, these programs have directly engaged thousands of youth through hundreds of community service projects across the nation that provide tangible benefits to nature, communities, and participants.

It is my hope to empower others to succeed and inspire a sense of hope that they, and so many others, can and are making a difference to create a more sustainable, equitable, and peaceful world.

Tell us about your journey to where you are today. What inspired you? What has your path been like?

My journey began with my early experiences exploring the coastline of Nova Scotia, igniting my curiosity and reverence for nature. As I grew older and witnessed humanity's impact on the environment, my childhood curiosity evolved into a passionate commitment to creating a sustainable future. I started as a camp counselor and later founded my high school’s Green Team to promote environmental awareness among my peers. While studying environmental science in university, I created a co-op placement to revitalize the campus radio station and founded a student club which fosters community and skill development. During my studies, I recognized the need for better public understanding of natural sciences and sought to address this need through education. After graduating, I expanded my experience by participating in the Canadian Conservation Corps program and coordinating education programming at Hope for Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre. These diverse experiences reinforced my belief that when individuals are connected to nature and given a shared vision to work towards, they can create monumental impacts.

Overall, my journey has been defined by a relentless drive to bridge gaps between scientific knowledge and public understanding. I believe that education is key to inspiring action and preserving our natural world.

How can people learn more about or support your work?

To support or learn more about the WILD Outside, Canadian Conservation Corps (CCC) or CCC Flex programs, you can visit the Canadian Wildlife Federation (CWF) website, follow our newsletters, or become a CWF donor. We are always open to exploring new partnership opportunities and sharing the organizations educational and conservation successes.

A Little More About Me

What keeps you hopeful for the future?

Remembering that the ripples of our positive actions will have more impact than we may realize today.

What book, film, or art piece has had the greatest impact on you?

Don’t even think about it: Why our brains are wired to ignore climate change by George Marshall

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?

Ability to communicate with animals.

How do you recharge?

Exercise, sleep, and time spent outdoors.