Combining her exceptional engagement and communication skills, studies in environmentalism, and involvement in community-based campaigns, Keerat brings to the Culture & Engagement team a demonstrated track record of success in engagement, communications, research, and non-profit operations.
More about me
My journey into environmental awareness was always fuelled by a deep-rooted response to storytelling, beginning with the stories my grandfather and father told me about their life on their land situated in the foothills of the outer Himalayas — I take immense pride in my grandfather’s cultivation and conservation of their ancestral agricultural fields through agroforestry. Since then, I’ve tried to thread storytelling through my work with the observation that stories spur people to take action.
Before becoming a ‘Canopal’, I made meaningful contributions to the engagement and communications teams at the David Suzuki Foundation. In my roles, I directed cross-country coaching for community-based campaigners on local-level environmental initiatives, coordinated the digital distributions of Dr. Suzuki’s science column to subscribers and social media supporters, and started pursuing a Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM).
I reside with my family in the Greater Toronto Area where I serve on the Youth Council at the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority. I also served on the Jane Goodall Institute of Canada Youth Advisory Council.
Why forests are important to me
For me, the forests of my childhood represent fond memories, but also profound lessons from the natural world that I hope to conserve for generations to come. It is my hope that my own children, and their children after them, will have the opportunity to experience the forests as I did. To wander beneath towering trees, to feel the earth beneath their feet, and to hear the symphony of birdsong and crunch of leaves – these are gifts I believe every child should have the chance to unwrap. So, let’s get gifting!
Why Canopy
I have the privilege of logging on to work each week with the world’s top-tier tree-huggers to address the twin climate change and biodiversity crises. So, when people ask me why Canopy, I counter with a question: why would I choose to work anywhere else?
Ask me about
Holistic health, running, the science of skincare, and capacity building for environmental action and ambition — I’ve participated in over 26 workshops, webinars, and speaking engagements on the latter!
What ruffles my feathers
Inconsiderateness and carelessness.
While my mind is in the trees, my heart belongs to the underwater world. When asked to envision an animal that embodies my essence, the graceful, fluid fish comes to mind. I match their go-with-the-flow nature and strive to move through the world with ease, just as fish navigate the ocean depths with poise. I'm also captivated by their intricate patterns and rich hues, which reflect the complexity and creativity within me.
