Bio

Mandie is a PhD student at IRES working with the Retreating from Risk project that aims to “explore how managed retreat (MR)–the strategic relocation of housing and infrastructure from high-risk areas–can be used as a proactive strategy to reduce flood risks while enhancing community well-being. The research will focus on improving socio-ecological resilience, supporting sustainable livelihoods, and advancing climate justice.”  

Mandie is a graduate of the University of Waterloo for both her undergraduate (Environmental Studies) and Master degree (Development Practice). She spent a number of years working in emergency management and operations across Canada, supporting municipalities and First Nation communities during emergency response. Most recently, she worked alongside First Nation communities as a Regional Climate Resilience Coordinator, collaborating and learning about climate change impacts, projects, and initiatives. Mandie seeks to learn more about Indigenous sovereignty, well-being, and the lived experiences of First Nations members living in at-risk areas in British Columbia.