Kalayla Calinisan

As a second generation Filipino-Canadian born on the unceded traditional territory of the Tsleil-Waututh, Katzie, Musqueam, Qayqayt, Squamish, and Sto’:lo Nations, Kalayla’s first love was not the farm, but the forest. However, while it was the dancing trees that taught her the importance of land and plants to people, working her first season at the Sharing Farm was what really planted the seed in her head of what it means to foster community through land, plants and food.

Working towards her Bachelor of Science in Natural Resources Conservation in the Faculty of Forestry and Environmental Stewardship at UBC, Kalayla is excited to apply and build upon her knowledge of conservation and environmental stewardship as she enters her second year with the Sharing Farm. She is passionate about exploring how farming and our food system is evolving with climate change and how it can adapt and help support the environments and communities it exists in rather than contribute to land degradation and inequality. Much like the plants she is tucking into the soil, she wants to soak up as much sun (haha!) but mostly knowledge about small-scale farming as she can, as well as inspire a love for growing in as many people as possible.

When not found romping around in the mud, Kalayla is usually stoked about a plant she found on the sidewalk or gushing about a community garden. She enjoys hiking, baking, crafting and watching bad tv with her friends, but your best bet is finding her on the bus exploring Vancouver dancing to good music.