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MISS EARTH CANADA
LAYANNA ROBINSON
DESCRIBE YOUR CHILDHOOD/GROWING YEARS
Growing up I had a very active imagination and enjoyed playing outdoors getting my hands dirty. In my childhood years I served as a scout leader for my local girl guides where I fostered a connection to nature and the great outdoors. Being a girl guide provided me with the opportunity to learn new skills and translate them into action, such as seeking challenges, becoming a resourceful problem solver, promoting leadership and developing a strong sense of self. These are all skills I continue to use on a day-to-day basis and have implemented in my current environmental initiatives.
WHAT IS YOUR MEMORABLE MOMENT?
A memory that holds a special place deep within my heart was planting my very first tree with my great grandfather. Being welcomed into a new home my grandfather had a desire to share his passions of gardening with me. Together in our backyard we worked countless summers and even planted my very first tree; “Weeping Willow” which is where I found my inspiration for my ME tree.
ANY SPECIAL STORIES OR FACTS ABOUT YOUR FAMILY?
Both of my great-grandparents were orphans that were brought over to British Columbia, Canada from Scotland prior to WW2, and attended the Fairbridge Prince of Wales Farm School undergoing gruesome farm slavery. The effects of the war and farm slavery forever changed my family. On my mother’s side, my great grandfather comes from the Choctaw First Nations, one of the third-largest Indian Nations in the United States of America.
WHAT IS THE MOST UNUSUAL THING YOU HAVE EVER DONE?
Without knowing or speaking the local language, I travelled across the world to Hua Hin, Thailand by myself. During this time I had the privilege to work hands-on at a mangrove nursery site and teach English and environmental conservation within the villages. Growing up in a country surrounded with environmental beauty, I wanted to travel aboard and submerge myself in a new culture and step out of my comfort zone while implementing my beauties for a cause project. During my time there I witnessed the tangible effects of climate change and its impact on its community. This entire experience was incredibly rewarding and I am forever grateful to have experienced the culture and food. I look forward to sharing the environmental stewardship skills I learned with my own community. More importantly sharing ways Canada can aid in resources.
WHAT TIPS CAN YOU SHARE TO PROMOTE ECOTOURISM & CLIMATE CHANGE?
I believe that promoting ecotourism and addressing climate change is crucial for protecting, preserving and conserving our planet’s natural beauty and combating environmental challenges. By choosing sustainable travel options, respecting local wildlife, reducing waste, supporting local communities and continuing learning about the environment that surrounds us. By practising these habits we can continue to enjoy eco-friendly travel experiences while making a positive impact on the environment and supporting efforts to combat climate change.
WHAT MAKES YOU PROUD OF YOUR COUNTRY?
I take immense pride in my country for three compelling reasons: It’s renowned reputation for welcoming immigrants, the provision of free universal healthcare, and the awe-inspiring landscapes that grace our nation. As a Canadian, these facets hold profound importance because they signify the value we place on the diverse perspectives, traditions, and experiences that people from various cultural backgrounds bring enriching our natural tapestry. Moreover, Canada’s commitment to ensuring that everyone, regardless of age, race, or social status has unfettered access to medical services which promotes health equity and even contributing significantly to our economic stability.
WHAT IS YOUR ADVOCACY?
My advocacy is land restoration and environmental education because I strongly believe that our eco-warriors play a crucial role in saving our earth. During my reign I worked with multiple non-profit organisations repairing over 25 community parks. These projects include removing invasive species, and planting native tree seedlings to help boost the overall ecological health of our ecosystems. With a passion for education, I’ve had the privilege to work hands-on within the classrooms of our youth providing educational workshops introducing the topic of climate change, the 5 R’s and ways we can implement change. I hope to motivate and inspire these young individuals to become stewards for our earth and participate in sustainable living practices.