Shaina Friedman

nature educator

• • Early Years Program (Cumberland Roots)
  • After School Adventures (Cumberland & Courtenay)

My path toward outdoor education began with a return trip to the country I was adopted from. I started coaching sailing as a teen, progressing from instructor-in-training to head coach, working with children with diverse abilities. These early experiences sparked a passion for supporting children and youth through challenge, learning, and connection to the outdoors.

I hold an Educational Assistant/Community Support Worker certificate and a Human Service Worker diploma. Seeking new experiences—snow, skiing, biking, and a change of environment—I moved from Vancouver Island to Kamloops, where I completed a Bachelor of Social Work with a Child Welfare specialization at Thompson Rivers University.

I grew up on Cortes Island, hiking a kilometre through the woods to get home and taking my first steps on a kayaking trip to Prideaux Haven. Now living in Cumberland, I return to the island often. Growing up remotely taught me resourcefulness, resilience, and problem-solving—qualities that have shaped me as a coach and educator.

Coaching taught me the value of creating safe, flexible, encouraging, and confidence-inspiring spaces where kids can grow—regardless of ability. I bring an inclusive, supportive approach to every outdoor program I lead.