Inspiring action for future generations through positive narratives.
pol·li·nate verb to take pollen from one plant to another so that new plant seeds can be produced
pol·li·nate com·mu·ni·ty verb to share ideas from one circle to another so that inspired ideas become amplified
Our Philosophy of Change
We employ a positive, solution-focused orientation to a difficult problem.
Coming together and building connection is the key to navigating a changing world with resilience, hope and realistic optimism.
We do this by supporting work with all ages in moving positive narratives about the future into the forefront of our learning, living and working. We transform perspectives about climate into a hopeful framework which inevitably leads to motivated actions - whether in an education, community, or corporate environment.
A well-researched appreciative inquiry methodology, this approach will infuse your work with a renewed sense of inspiration.
We are grateful to the people who are today called K’omox, consisting of several formerly separated tribes that include the Pentlatch, Ieeksan (eye-ick-sun), Sasitla (sa-seet-la), Xa’xe (ha-hey) and Sathloot (sath-loot) people. This gratitude is for the stewarding of this land, to which we are visitors, since time immemorial. It is a privilege to work, live, play, and learn in this traditional territory.
We encourage you to explore the history of the land on which you live at Nativeland.ca
"People are hungry for information that can help them make sense of the current environmental crisis. It is well researched that hope, optimism and action can support us in addressing the changes that we face."
- Christina (Tina) Willard-Stepan
Pollinate Services
Presentations and Keynotes
'Let's Talk Climate' presentations are customized to support leadership of all ages, to face head-on with resilience their work in a changing world. Your group will feel inspired to action.
Education
We can help you create resources for your organization or community around climate change and resilience through curriculum-writing, school presentations and school community mentorship. Click here to view samples of this work.
Facilitation
From strategic planning to community re-imagining workshops, your team will be supported in forward momentum in meeting your organizational goals with a resilience lens.
"“Deciding to act may take a while; Much longer than the action itself.”
- Danielle Wengraf
Testimonial
“We are so grateful that you made the time to come and share your energy, stories, knowledge and ideas with us. It is always inspiring to be in your presence. You are both doing such important work. We look forward to continuing to collaborate and learn both from you and alongside you.”
Cumberland Lake Park Society Team
Faces behind Pollinate
Creator and Founder
Christina (Tina) Willard-Stepan
B.Ed., Certified Professional Coach
Facilitator - Speaker - Environmental Educator
As an environmental educator, artist, facilitator, speaker and community developer, Tina creates and implements resources for school districts, regional districts, NGOs and private business. She is a graduate of of Al Gore's Climate Leadership Training and an active part of the Climate Reality Project.
Collaborator/Researcher
Maya Willard-Stepan
MSc
Maya Willard-Stepan received her BSc in Atmospheric and Environmental Physics from McGill University and is currently completing an MSc in Geography at the University of Victoria, studying renewable energy transitions under the supervision of Canadian Research Chair Dr. Christina Hoicka. Maya’s research takes an interdisciplinary approach, focusing on human-land-energy interactions and synergies. In her free time, Maya enjoys spending time outdoors and making music.
Consultant/Facilitator/Speaker
Meaghan Cursons
Meaghan Cursons is a Vancouver Island-based non profit leader, project manager, public educator, facilitator, event producer, and storyteller with 25+ years working across sectors on Vancouver Island. With skills and experience rooted in climate and environment, arts and culture, community celebrations, heritage and economic development, Meaghan's clients range from local government and First Nations to business associations and nonprofits. She is an in demand public speaker and community engagement consultant who brings a high energy interdisciplinary approach to all her projects.
Consultant/Facilitator/Climate Communicator
Jay Errico
Jay has worked at the intersection of social justice and environmental issues since the late 90’s. Their broad educational and work history have gifted them with expertise in several overlapping fields, including: conflict resolution, mental health, climate action and community engagement. Jay’s current work reflects their focus on enhancing community resilience. When not at work, Jay fills their well exploring nature, music and downtime with cherished friends and family.
Coach/Consultant/Facilitator
Robin Swets
BSW, CLC
Certified Life Coach, Social Worker
Certified Change Management Leader (PROSCI)
Robin is a passionate coach, facilitator, and consultant who is dedicated to empowering employees, business owners, and leaders to thrive in today's rapidly changing world. With a focus on sustainability and achievable growth, Robin helps individuals shift their mindsets about change, using change as a catalyst for growing resilience, productivity, and fulfillment in personal and professional lives.
You can find more information on Robin here.
Pollination is the act of transferring one element of a living thing to another in order to propagate. We do this with climate action inspiration and ideas by working with an incredible team of community leaders, mentors, scientists, educators, facilitators, artists, songwriters, children and elders.
Sharing and amplifying ideas as pollinators do with pollen, we move inspiration forward quickly and support humans from different sectors to work together on the big problems we are facing today.
We will bring a team together to best meet the needs of your session or project.
Get Inspired
Subscribe to the Hopeful Action Newsletter here. Each issue delivered to you will include: an article for inspiration, hopeful resources and news, a personal climate action suggestion, book recommendations, and our eye on community.
We look forward to engaging with you!