The London Environmental Network (LEN) is supported by a team of diverse staff and volunteers, as well as a Board of Directors.
We frequently seek volunteers to help with LEN event planning and setup, marketing, communications, and outreach. To learn more about current opportunities with the London Environmental Network, and to get in touch with our staff please visit our Contact Us page.
Amanda Acosta | Executive Director
Amanda Acosta brings almost two decades working in conservation, with most of her career focused within the NGO sector in Belize. Her expertise is in protected areas management, management effectiveness and strategic leadership. Amanda has served on the executive committees of several conservation networks in Belize, as well as general civil society networks. She is a member of the IUCN World Commission on Protected Areas (WCPA) and has served on several Expert Appraisal groups for Green Listing (EAGL) in the Central American region. Amanda’s academic background is in science, with a Bachelor of Science from the College of Charleston, South Carolina and a Master of Science from Nova Southeastern University in Florida. She loves the outdoors, reading and travelling. As a recent resident to London, she seeks to contribute in a meaningful way to the community with her passion being a positive impact for people and nature.
Leah Derikx | Director of Human Resources and Finance
Leah Derikx (she/her) is passionate about creating internal operations that contribute to an efficient and thriving organization. In 2018, she graduated from Western University with a Bachelor of Science in Biology, specializing in ecosystem health and sustainability. Her interest in ecology and climate change led to her involvement with local environmental groups. Leah first became involved with the London Environmental Network as a summer student, and has supported the organization's events, communications, volunteer management, human resources, bookkeeping, and internal operations since then. She holds a certificate in Professional Leadership from Western Continuing Studies. Leah recently served as the Interim Executive Director of the London Environmental Network from August 2023-2024 and from April-September 2025.
Joanna MacLeod | Sustainability Manager
Joanna is passionate about nature, living sustainably, and building a regenerative future. As the Sustainability Coordinator, Joanna manages our Thriving Communities program which builds green infrastructure projects throughout our city. Joanna has experience creating organic urban edible landscapes, building low impact development projects such as rain gardens and bioswales, and thinking outside the box to help build a greener future for all life forms. Joanna loves to work in an organization with environmental conscious goals, while helping the London community at large increase our natural green spaces. Learn more about our Thriving Communities programing here.
Margarita Jaramillo | Sustainable Building Coordinator
Originally from Colombia, Margarita is passionate about creating a healthy and sustainable environment for all. She has a degree in Environmental Engineering from her country, a Master of Science in Sustainable Energy from Brunel University in UK, and a postgraduate degree in Environmental Law (COL). She’s been in the sustainability field for about 10 years, working mainly with universities in their environmental sustainability strategies and the construction sector. Her main objective is to prevent and minimize environmental impacts. This is why she has extensive experience in implementing environmental projects in energy, water, and waste management. She is enthusiastic and excited about helping Londoners reduce their environmental impact at home.
Andrew Price | Green Economy London Manager
Andrew (he/him) is passionate about sustainability, energy efficiency and nature. He brings knowledge and experience of running two successful local businesses to the Green Economy London (GEL) team. As the GEL Manager, Andrew is excited to work with local businesses to reach their environmental goals with impactful tools offered by various GEL programs. Andrew holds a Bachelor's of Environmental Studies degree from the University of Waterloo with a specialization in Earth Systems Science. His studies were focused on hazards, natural disasters, risk management and home efficiency principles. During his 3rd term at UW, Andrew attended the University of Iceland’s Earth Science exchange program where he studied glaciology, volcanology, hydrogeomorphology and climatology. Andrew is committed to creating a greener London, one business at a time!
Mackenzie McKim | Membership & Outreach Coordinator (on maternity leave)
Growing up in London, Mackenzie has always felt a strong passion for the environment and living sustainably. While completing her Honours Specialization in Social Justice and Peace Studies at King's University College, she studied a number of different global issues but was always drawn back to environmental issues, specifically water security and waste reduction. She became involved with local environmental groups which further fueled her desire to see London become an even stronger hub for green leadership. She is committed to living more sustainably and is excited to connect with the many groups and individuals that LEN supports.
Myles Swift - Chair | Engineer (Centric Engineering)
Myles is a licensed professional engineer and holds the position of Principal and Manager of Engineering at Centric Engineering. Joining the firm in 2014 shortly after it opened its doors, Myles has made meaningful contributions to the firm’s development as a leader in both the technical and business management aspects of the firm. He completed his Engineering Science (Civil/Structural) degree at Western University and also holds a Masters of Business Administration from the DeGroote School of Business (McMaster University).
Myles has a passion for the built environment and has helped position his firm as a leader in timber design and the design for zero philosophy. He has been a guest lecturer at Western University and industry conferences, and served on multiple government task forces, working to highlight the benefits of timber as a building material and promoting its use in the industry. Outside of his professional life Myles can be found browsing through record stores, on the water either boating or paddling, travelling and backcountry camping, and spending time with his family and friends.
Sarah Beyea - Vice-Chair | CSR Specialist
As CSR Specialist at Atlantic Central & League Savings and Mortgage, Sarah (she/her) has a passion for helping organizations improve and communicate their social, environmental and economic impact. She graduated from the University of New Brunswick with a B.A. (Hons) in Anthropology, and a B.Sc. in Biology prior to earning her Master of Environment and Sustainability from the University of Western Ontario. With over sixteen years of experience in project management and program implementation, Sarah is a firm believer that the best change happens through collaboration and knowledge sharing. Over the course of her career, Sarah has worked on projects in multiple industries in both the non-profit and for-profit sectors, including sustainability reporting, materiality assessment and gap analysis, environmental compliance, training development, and sustainability implementation. In her spare time she likes to travel and spend time with her family, friends and pets.
Ann-Marie Cooper - Past Chair | Convertus (Human Resources and Communications Manager)
Ann-Marie is a leader, environmentalist, and human resources professional who is committed to protecting and improving the planet for future generations. After graduating from the University of Western Ontario with a Bachelor's Degree in Science, she moved to Hamilton to further her education at Mohawk College in Human Resources Management. She started her career at Hamilton Health Sciences before returning to the city that stole her heart, London, Ontario - a big city with a small city feel. Since 2017, she has worked as a Human Resources and Communications Manager for Convertus Group, a Canadian company that closes the loop through organic waste treatment and recycling and treatment. Ann-Marie is experienced in the full spectrum of human resources programs, services, and functions and has experience in corporate communications, marketing, and public relations. Her leadership, unerring enthusiasm, and dedication to teamwork has earned her a reputation as a leader in employee relations.
When she isn't working, Ann-Marie enjoys cooking, hiking in one Canada's most greenest and resilient cities, gardening, and is always down for an adventure.
Miguel Belcina - Treasurer | KPMG (Senior Manager, Tax)
Miguel is a Tax Manager at KPMG LLP. He has a degree in Accounting (BSc) and is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CA). While at KPMG, Miguel has been involved in working with not-for-profits, and coordinates community initiatives for the office, such as volunteer tax clinics and blood donation drives. Miguel has a passion for sustainability and the environment, and is excited to be a part of LEN.
Bianca Rocha - Acting Secretary | Climate Change Specialist (Libro Credit Union)
Bianca is a Climate Change Specialist at Libro Credit Union. She has a Bachelor of Environmental Studies in Environment & Business and a Masters of Climate Change from the University of Waterloo. Having spent about seven years in the public sector in environmental assessments to now working in the finance sector in climate change, she is passionate about the financing of a just transition, local climate action and conscious consumerism. In her free time, you can find her enjoying nature, reading or getting into a new DIY or craft project.
Heather Bennett | Hydra Dyne Technology Inc. (Controller)
Heather Bennett holds an Honours Economics and Accounting degree from Wilfrid Laurier University. Heather works in the manufacturing industry and has been involved in initiatives to reduce energy consumption in the facilities through retrofit and green energy programs. She is looking forward to contributing her finance and operational background to the London Environmental Network's Finance Committee. In her spare time, Heather enjoys spending time with friends and family, gardening, camping, and playing rec sports.
Kevin Kaisar | Academic Planner
Kevin (they/them) is a proud immigrant and cat dad. Kevin is passionate about the intersectionality between climate justice, racial justice, and anti-capitalism, and how that can translate to environmentally-conscious and human-rights-conscious consumption. They are especially interested in community mobilization and organizing to build capacity for collective education, awareness, and action. With a business management and event planning background, Kevin brings their administrative and organizational skills to the most fun workplaces they can find - going from a climbing gym to a swimming pool, and now a culinary school. When not working, Kevin enjoys cooking with friends, secondhand shopping, trying out new board games, and drinking lots and lots of iced coffee.
Peter Moddle | Program Director
Peter was privileged to spend his childhood camping across Canada with his family. Through his time hiking through forests, and swimming in the Great Lakes, he grew a deep appreciation for the natural world. His curiosities about the environment, and the role humans play within it, have led him to complete an Honours B.Sc. in Environmental and Natural Resource Science from Trent University and an advanced diploma in Ecosystem Management from Fleming College. After working extensively in the field, Peter now serves as the Program Director at ALUS Middlesex, a non-profit dedicated to working with farmers to establish nature-based solutions on their land. Peter is passionate about bringing together people, plants and animals through restoration in order to support the resilience and vibrance of local environments.
Julie Forrester | Social Impact Consultant
Julie (she/her) is a social sector coach and consultant experienced in applying business principles to nonprofits and social enterprises. She founded a social enterprise incubator, trained 35+ business coaches across Ontario and managed a six-figure social purpose consulting business. She provides consulting services designed to amplify social impact through strong community engagement, strategic planning, data-driven decision making and actionable financial planning.
Julie is an avid traveller and outdoorswoman. This summer Julie reached her goal of a week-long hike through the Alps, embracing natural environments all across the world.
Tyler Bradburn (on leave) | Energy Management and Sustainability
Tyler Bradburn works in Energy Management and Sustainability. He holds a Political Science degree from the University of Windsor as well as an Advanced Diploma in Electrical Engineering Technology from Fanshawe College. He is a Certified Energy Auditor, Certified Energy Manager, Certified Engineering Technologist (Electrical), and a member of the Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Engineers. When not working on improving the built environment, Tyler enjoys spending time with friends and family, watching baseball (Go London Majors), and enjoying the local walking paths and trails.
Ilona Kovats | Sustainability & Tenant Retention Manager
Ilona moved to Canada in 2010 and has been an advocate for sustainability in both her professional and personal life. From 2018-2019, she has mentored Western University’s MES students, helping them shape policies, energy efficiency initiatives, and CSR reports. At BlueStone Properties, she leads ESG initiatives and plays a key role in developing company programs, including accessibility and diversity programs. Recognized as a subject-matter expert, Ilona has shared her knowledge as a panelist at EarthFest and the London Chamber for Climate Action Businesses.
Mindy Aroutzidis | Development Officer
Mindy has over a decade of experience in the environmental sector, specializing in fundraising development. She spent 12 years working in Western Canada, collaborating with organizations like West Coast Environmental Law, where she also gained valuable experience in Indigenous engagement and protection. A few months before COVID-19, she relocated to London, Ontario, and now works at St. Joseph’s Healthcare Foundation. Recently, she joined the Governance Committee at LEN. She is passionate about environmental protection – so much so that she’s worked with MPs to help push for stronger environmental policies.
Ann-Marie Cooper | Governance Committee Member
Ann-Marie is a leader, environmentalist, and human resources professional who is committed to protecting and improving the planet for future generations. After graduating from the University of Western Ontario with a Bachelor's Degree in Science, she moved to Hamilton to further her education at Mohawk College in Human Resources Management. She started her career at Hamilton Health Sciences before returning to the city that stole her heart, London, Ontario - a big city with a small city feel. Since 2017, she has worked as a Human Resources and Communications Manager for Convertus Group, a Canadian company that closes the loop through organic waste treatment and recycling and treatment. Ann-Marie is experienced in the full spectrum of human resources programs, services, and functions and has experience in corporate communications, marketing, and public relations. Her leadership, unerring enthusiasm, and dedication to teamwork has earned her a reputation as a leader in employee relations.
When she isn't working, Ann-Marie enjoys cooking, hiking in one Canada's most greenest and resilient cities, gardening, and is always down for an adventure.
Annie Legate-Wolfe | Governance Committee Member
Annie is a class actions and Indigenous law lawyer. A native Londoner, Annie returned to the City for her legal education at Western University after obtaining a degree in International Development (Sustainable Development) from the University of Guelph. Annie is driven to provide access to justice in her career, and a sustainable future for global citizens outside of it. If you don't find Annie in her flower, vegetable, or indoor gardens, she's likely in her canoe, on her bike, or on her skis. Annie also lends her skills to some of LEN's member organizations, including London Cycle Link and the Pollinator Pathways Project.
Jenni Hayman | Governance Committee Member
Dr. Jenni Hayman is an Ontario college administrator, professor, and consultant with a focus on open education and the use of open educational resources (OER). She supports the creation of learning experiences related to climate risk assessment, climate adaptation, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). You can find out more about Jenni on LinkedIn.
Sadaf Taimur | Governance Committee Member
Dr. Sadaf Taimur is a Sustainability Scientist and the Director of Strategic Partnerships at the Center for Building Sustainable Value (BSV), Ivey Business School, Western University. Formerly the Director of Sustainability & Circularity at Goodwill Industries, Ontario, she developed and implemented transformative policies and programs to reduce organizational environmental impacts. She advises B-Lab’s Standards Advisory Committee (US & Canada) and has served as an expert reviewer for UNEP’s GEO-7 report. Her experience includes consulting on AI and ESG research at the University of Montreal, serving as Senior ESG Specialist at Mondetta, and holding postdoctoral researcher positions at McGill University and the University of Tokyo. Holding a doctorate in Sustainability Science from the University of Tokyo, she specializes in enabling individual and organizational transformations for sustainable development. She has been recognized for her contributions with multiple accolades, including the GESS Outstanding Contribution in Education Award (2016), the Green Talents Award (2020) from the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research for her outstanding research in sustainability science, and the Global 50 Women in Sustainability Award (2024) for her pioneering efforts and transformative leadership in sustainability.
Olsion Lama | Governance Committee Member
Olsion Lama is a committed nature conservationist who has played a significant role in advancing environmental protection and community-based conservation in Albania. As Project Manager at the Protection and Preservation of Natural Environment in Albania (PPNEA), he hasled key initiatives that empower local communities and organizations to take part in preserving their natural heritage. Olsion played a central role in establishing Albania’s first Local Action Group for a Protected Area and was instrumental in the designation of the Balkan lynx reproduction area as a Nature Park under IUCN Category IV. His work also includes developing conservation policies, strategies, and coordinating research on endangered species. Outside of work, Olsion enjoys spending time outdoors with his family, sharing his love for nature through hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife photography.
Ellen Liu | Governance Committee Member
Ellen has a passion for education, food, and nature and environment sustainability. Having a background of English Language Studies, Food and Nutrition Management, and Italian Culinary Art, she had been working at various roles (including student counselor, senior IELTs instructor, Academic Program Director) as an educator at college for 20 plus years. Joining the amazing LEN team allows her the privilege to help educate, connect and inspire a larger audience with her expertise, to promote a greener city and the sustainability of our environment. Ellen also enjoys her time in making artisan sourdough breads, and all kinds of yummies, playing so-pitch, or on the trails leading a hike.
Ilona Kovats | Governance Committee Member
Ilona moved to Canada in 2010 and has been an advocate for sustainability in both her professional and personal life. From 2018-2019, she has mentored Western University’s MES students, helping them shape policies, energy efficiency initiatives, and CSR reports. At BlueStone Properties, she leads ESG initiatives and plays a key role in developing company programs, including accessibility and diversity programs. Recognized as a subject-matter expert, Ilona has shared her knowledge as a panelist at EarthFest and the London Chamber for Climate Action Businesses.
Mindy Aroutzidis | Governance Committee Member
Mindy has over a decade of experience in the environmental sector, specializing in fundraising development. She spent 12 years working in Western Canada, collaborating with organizations like West Coast Environmental Law, where she also gained valuable experience in Indigenous engagement and protection. A few months before COVID-19, she relocated to London, Ontario, and now works at St. Joseph’s Healthcare Foundation. Recently, she joined the Governance Committee at LEN. She is passionate about environmental protection – so much so that she’s worked with MPs to help push for stronger environmental policies.
Andrew Hunniford | Governance Committee Member
Andrew Hunniford is a community builder and sustainability advocate with 20 years of experience in business leadership and civic engagement. As former General Manager and Partner at the London Bicycle Café, he helped grow the business into an award-winning hub for active transportation and community connection. Andrew brings expertise in strategic planning, governance, and stakeholder engagement. He also serves on the board of the London Central Lions Club and is dedicated to creating a more sustainable and inclusive London.
Miguel Belcina | Finance Committee Chair
Miguel is a Tax Manager at KPMG LLP. He has a degree in Accounting (BSc) and is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CA). While at KPMG, Miguel has been involved in working with not-for-profits, and coordinates community initiatives for the office, such as volunteer tax clinics and blood donation drives. Miguel has a passion for sustainability and the environment, and is excited to be a part of LEN.
Heather Bennett | Finance Committee Vice-Chair
Heather Bennett holds an Honours Economics and Accounting degree from Wilfrid Laurier University. Heather works in the manufacturing industry and has been involved in initiatives to reduce energy consumption in the facilities through retrofit and green energy programs. She is looking forward to contributing her finance and operational background to the London Environmental Network's Finance Committee. In her spare time, Heather enjoys spending time with friends and family, gardening, camping, and playing rec sports.
Julie Forrester | Finance Committee Member
Julie (she/her) is a social sector coach and consultant experienced in applying business principles to nonprofits and social enterprises. She founded a social enterprise incubator, trained 35+ business coaches across Ontario and managed a six-figure social purpose consulting business. She provides consulting services designed to amplify social impact through strong community engagement, strategic planning, data-driven decision making and actionable financial planning.
Julie is an avid traveller and outdoorswoman. This summer Julie reached her goal of a week-long hike through the Alps, embracing natural environments all across the world.
Musarrat Jabeen | Finance Committee Member
Musarrat is a finance professional with 4+ years of work experience. She is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Level 3 candidate. Her expertise in financial analysis, reporting, and meticulous budget management is a valuable asset she brings to the London Environmental Network's Finance Committee. Passionate about leveraging her financial skills to support environmental initiatives, Musarrat is committed to enhancing the sustainability and resilience of the London community.
Sarah Beyea | Finance Committee Member
As CSR Specialist at Atlantic Central & League Savings and Mortgage, Sarah (she/her) has a passion for helping organizations improve and communicate their social, environmental and economic impact. She graduated from the University of New Brunswick with a B.A. (Hons) in Anthropology, and a B.Sc. in Biology prior to earning her Master of Environment and Sustainability from the University of Western Ontario. With over sixteen years of experience in project management and program implementation, Sarah is a firm believer that the best change happens through collaboration and knowledge sharing. Over the course of her career, Sarah has worked on projects in multiple industries in both the non-profit and for-profit sectors, including sustainability reporting, materiality assessment and gap analysis, environmental compliance, training development, and sustainability implementation. In her spare time she likes to travel and spend time with her family, friends and pets.
Kevin Kaisar | Fundraising & Events Committee Vice-Chair
Kevin (they/them) is a proud immigrant and cat dad. Kevin is passionate about the intersectionality between climate justice, racial justice, and anti-capitalism, and how that can translate to environmentally-conscious and human-rights-conscious consumption. They are especially interested in community mobilization and organizing to build capacity for collective education, awareness, and action. With a business management and event planning background, Kevin brings their administrative and organizational skills to the most fun workplaces they can find - going from a climbing gym to a swimming pool, and now a culinary school. When not working, Kevin enjoys cooking with friends, secondhand shopping, trying out new board games, and drinking lots and lots of iced coffee.
Myles Swift | Fundraising & Events Committee Member
Myles is a licensed professional engineer and holds the position of Principal and Manager of Engineering at Centric Engineering. Joining the firm in 2014 shortly after it opened its doors, Myles has made meaningful contributions to the firm’s development as a leader in both the technical and business management aspects of the firm. He completed his Engineering Science (Civil/Structural) degree at Western University and also holds a Masters of Business Administration from the DeGroote School of Business (McMaster University).
Myles has a passion for the built environment and has helped position his firm as a leader in timber design and the design for zero philosophy. He has been a guest lecturer at Western University and industry conferences, and served on multiple government task forces, working to highlight the benefits of timber as a building material and promoting its use in the industry. Outside of his professional life Myles can be found browsing through record stores, on the water either boating or paddling, travelling and backcountry camping, and spending time with his family and friends.
Peter Moddle | Fundraising & Events Committee Member
Peter was privileged to spend his childhood camping across Canada with his family. Through his time hiking through forests, and swimming in the Great Lakes, he grew a deep appreciation for the natural world. His curiosities about the environment, and the role humans play within it, have led him to complete an Honours B.Sc. in Environmental and Natural Resource Science from Trent University and an advanced diploma in Ecosystem Management from Fleming College. After working extensively in the field, Peter now serves as the Program Director at ALUS Middlesex, a non-profit dedicated to working with farmers to establish nature-based solutions on their land. Peter is passionate about bringing together people, plants and animals through restoration in order to support the resilience and vibrance of local environments.
Alex Goertzen | Fundraising & Events Committee Member
Alex is a seasoned non-profit professional with experience in fundraising, finance, communications, programs, marketing, and governance. Alex completed the Fundraising Certificate program at Fanshawe College and has since worked with several charities to improve their donor and volunteer relationships. Currently, Alex is working as a Development Associate at Atlohsa Family Healing Services in London, ON. Alex is passionate about sustainable living, community theatre, and volunteering. In their free time, Alex enjoys exploring nature and spending time with family.
Ali Croke | Fundraising & Events Committee Member
Ali is an Evaluation Analyst at the Canadian Institutes of Health Research. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Western Ontario and a Master of Arts from Carleton University. She utilizes her quantitative and qualitative psychological research skills to now specialize in program evaluation. Raised in London, Ali is passionate about learning and sharing knowledge of sustainable practices to build an eco-conscious community. Her interests include yoga, cats, reading, and loves a good cup of coffee/espresso or glass of red wine.
Bianca Rocha | Fundraising & Events Committee Member
Bianca is a Climate Change Specialist at Libro Credit Union. She has a Bachelor of Environmental Studies in Environment & Business and a Masters of Climate Change from the University of Waterloo. Having spent about seven years in the public sector in environmental assessments to now working in the finance sector in climate change, she is passionate about the financing of a just transition, local climate action and conscious consumerism. In her free time, you can find her enjoying nature, reading or getting into a new DIY or craft project.
Sarah Beyea | Fundraising & Events Committee Member
As CSR Specialist at Atlantic Central & League Savings and Mortgage, Sarah (she/her) has a passion for helping organizations improve and communicate their social, environmental and economic impact. She graduated from the University of New Brunswick with a B.A. (Hons) in Anthropology, and a B.Sc. in Biology prior to earning her Master of Environment and Sustainability from the University of Western Ontario. With over sixteen years of experience in project management and program implementation, Sarah is a firm believer that the best change happens through collaboration and knowledge sharing. Over the course of her career, Sarah has worked on projects in multiple industries in both the non-profit and for-profit sectors, including sustainability reporting, materiality assessment and gap analysis, environmental compliance, training development, and sustainability implementation. In her spare time she likes to travel and spend time with her family, friends and pets.
Tyler Bradburn | Fundraising & Events Committee Member
Tyler Bradburn works in Energy Management and Sustainability. He holds a Political Science degree from the University of Windsor as well as an Advanced Diploma in Electrical Engineering Technology from Fanshawe College. He is a Certified Energy Auditor, Certified Energy Manager, Certified Engineering Technologist (Electrical), and a member of the Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Engineers. When not working on improving the built environment, Tyler enjoys spending time with friends and family, watching baseball (Go London Majors), and enjoying the local walking paths and trails.