Ella Braden is an orchardist and science educator. After studying as an astronomer, she found her passion teaching others about science. She has led education programs in astronomy, physics, ecology, and sustainable agriculture in the United States, Australia, and Canada, sharing her passion for science with learners from pre-school through retirement homes and every age in between. After finally arriving in her dream home, the Okanagan Valley, in 2017, she began managing a sustainable orchard and now runs her own orchard and polyculture farm in Summerland. As the leader of the ecostudies programs, she is excited to bring inspirational programs to learners of all ages, working to create a community more tied to the land around us in this unique place.

Ella Braden

Jayme has worked in non-profit management for over 25-years holding senior positions within some of Canada’s top cultural organizations including Honens International Piano Competition and Alberta Ballet. She also spent many years working in the media as Editor of an international chain of tourism publications, as well as a Reporter/Producer for CKUA Radio a listener-supported, province-wide radio broadcaster. A keen advocate of arts and culture, Jayme has served on the Boards of Directors for many festivals and educational organizations. In addition to loving her role as coordinator for Meadowlark, these days Jayme also volunteers on the organizing committee of Children’s Showcase and is communications consultant to South Okanagan Similkameen Conservation Program and Okanagan Similkameen Stewardship Society.

Jayme Friedt

Rosa Hopkins moved to Penticton from Vancouver in 1995 with her husband Peter and two daughters (now with recent additions of two lovely grandchildren). She still enjoys the quiet lifestyle and natural beauty that the Okanagan has to offer. Her favourite hobby is growing her own garden fresh vegetables, herbs and sweet Kazakhstan melons. Rosa started working for OSCA in 2003 and is very “proud to be a part of OSCA and all the positive work it does for the environment and community.”

Rosa Hopkins