06/19/2026
Ocean Kneeland, The Raffi Foundation
“Child Honouring”
Ocean lives, with gratitude, on the traditional and unceded lands of the Cowichan Tribes, where the Hul’q’umi’num people have lived for thousands of years. She holds a master’s degree in Early Childhood Education from UBC and has worked for over 13 years as a Professor at Vancouver Island University. She is also a proud Oma to her sweet granddaughter Alaya and a parent to three amazing children (ages 27, 19 and 17). She is passionate about teaching, learning, and working collaboratively with others – particularly in ways that respect and honour both Earth and child. Outside of work, Ocean loves to dance, connect with family and friends, and explore the beautiful and diverse world that sustains us all.
Hebah Hussaina, BSc., MSc., PhD Student and Graduate Research Assistant
School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia
“Supporting Inclusive Practices in Children's Outdoor and Risky Play-Why It's Important Now More Than Ever! “
Hebah Hussaina is a PhD student in the School of Population and Public Health at the Outside Play Lab, supervised by Dr. Mariana Brussoni. Hebah holds a BSc. (2021) and MSc. (2024) in pediatric health sciences research, and is passionate about supporting healthy child development and communities. Hebah’s research interests lie in the intersection of pediatric mental health and outdoor & risky play, especially through the lens of health promotion initiatives and knowledge translation. In her spare time, Hebah enjoys baking and cooking for her family and friends, powerlifting at the gym, and spending time in the outdoors with her cat.
Karen Lesage, Program Chair, Human Services, Ridge Meadows College
“Creating Inclusive Spaces Where Everyone Feels Welcomed, Valued, and Connected”
Karen LeSage holds numerous professional credentials and is a neurodivergent educator, advocate, and leader with more than 30 years of experience supporting children and youth from birth to nineteen years of age. Karen is passionate about creating inclusive spaces where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and connected.
In recognition of her leadership and contributions to the field, Karen received the 2023 ChildCareBC Award of Excellence for Child Care Leadership. She is honoured to share her experience and insights as a keynote speaker and advocate for inclusive, responsive, and relationship-based practices in early childhood education and community care.
Certificate Provided: 7 professional development hours for the day
To register:
https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/1992161873792?aff=oddtdtcreator
