2025 Provincial Council Candidates
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Vice-Chair (1 Position)
Alex Pope (Incumbent)
Alex Pope was born in Vancouver and grew up in North Vancouver. He earned a BSc in Computer Science from UBC (1988) and has worked as a computer programmer/analyst/consultant since then, much of the work being related to financial services. In April 2022, Alex graduated from the University of Fredericton Sandermoen School of Business with an MBA in Social Enterprise Leadership.
Alex has a variety of governance experience volunteering on several non-profit boards and has been serving on the BC Green Party Provincial Council for six years, with the last four as Secretary. He was also a candidate for the BC Green Party in the 2013 and 2017 provincial elections and has twice put his name forward for Maple Ridge Council.
Alex is currently the Executive Director of the Fraser North Farmers Market Society, which operates three farmers’ markets located in Maple Ridge, Pitt Meadows, and Port Coquitlam, and is running his own business doing computer software development on a contract basis.
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I’m proud of the small part I have had in our successes to date, having run as a candidate for MLA in the 2013 and 2017 elections, and in my role on Provincial Council, first as Regional Rep for Fraser Valley – Surrey, and then four years as Secretary. We need to build our resources for election readiness. Not only to be ready for an election, but to give our MLAs the leverage to push the government to pass better legislation. We live in a beautiful province. We want our children, and our grandchildren, to be able to continue to enjoy what our province has to offer… and to be able to afford to live here. Electing more BC Green MLAs is the best way I know of to achieve that goal. Provincial Council’s role is to work towards making that happen. I’m motivated to contribute to our future success by serving on Provincial Council.
Farrukh Chishtie
Dr. Farrukh Chishtie brings a unique combination of scientific expertise, international development
experience, and community-centered leadership to his candidacy for Vice Chair of the BC Green Party
Provincial Council.
With three PhDs spanning Applied Mathematics/Theoretical Physics, Education with specialization in Environment and Sustainability, and Rehabilitation Sciences (in progress at UBC), Dr. Chishtie exemplifies interdisciplinary problem-solving. His academic credentials are matched by practical impact: he has published over 120 peer-reviewed scientific papers and secured more than $3 million in
research funding.
Dr. Chishtie’s career demonstrates consistent commitment to climate justice and vulnerable populations. As Senior Research Scientist with NASA SERVIR-Mekong (2019-2022), he led development of flood forecasting and drought monitoring systems serving millions across Southeast Asia, earning multiple NASA excellence awards for leadership and collaboration. Previously, as Head of Space Science at Pakistan’s Institute of Space Technology, he pioneered atmospheric and astrophysics research and built academic programs from the ground up. His disaster response experience is deeply personal and practical. Following the 2005 Pakistan earthquake, he developed community-based rehabilitation programs that continue operating today. He coordinated medical relief during Pakistan’s 2010-2012 floods and has consistently worked at the intersection of climate science and community resilience.
In 2021, Dr. Chishtie founded the Peaceful Society, Science and Innovation Foundation in Vancouver,
providing climate risk assessment for accessibility and disability projects across BC, Ontario, and Quebec. He currently serves as Research Assistant at UBC’s Faculty of Medicine, studying Long COVID patient experiences and developing frameworks for occupational security. His policy advocacy includes collaboration with West Coast Environmental Law on climate litigation, consultation for the Canadian Environmental Law Association on nuclear reactor climate impacts, and membership on Pakistan’s Scientific Panel for Climate Change supporting IPCC contributions.
Dr. Chishtie is a Climate Expert with UBC’s Climate Hub, mentor in the Climate Solutions Scholar program, and Associate Editor for Frontiers in Climate Studies. His work consistently bridges scientific rigor with social justice, demonstrating the strategic thinking and collaborative leadership essential for effective party governance. He resides in Vancouver, bringing both local commitment and global perspective to BC Green Party leadership.
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Friends and fellow Greens,
I’m running for Vice Chair because I believe effective governance requires both big-picture vision and boots- on-the-ground experience and I’ve spent my career bridging that gap.
When the 2005 Pakistan earthquake hit, I didn’t just research disaster response—I lived in affected
communities, developing rehabilitation programs that still serve people today. When Southeast Asian nations needed climate adaptation tools, I helped build flood forecasting systems protecting millions. Now, researching Long COVID in BC, I see how systemic failures leave vulnerable people behind.
These experiences taught me that justice isn’t abstract, rather it’s about whether someone gets the warning before the flood hits, whether a disabled person can access care, whether our policies actually reach those who need them most.
I bring three things to Provincial Council: scientific rigor to evaluate complex policies, international perspective on what works, and a track record of turning ideas into action. My work with West Coast Environmental Law, founding a climate-focused non-profit, and collaborating across sectors shows I can build bridges and get things done.
The climate crisis demands we act boldly while ensuring no one gets left behind. As Vice Chair, I’ll bring
strategic thinking, collaborative leadership, and unwavering commitment to the Green values that brought us all here.
Let’s do this work together.
Secretary (1 Position)
Marie Ward (Incumbent)
With over 20 years of experience in administration, customer service, logistics, volunteer coordination, and event planning, I have provided executive administrative services to high-level leaders, including presidents, vice presidents, executive directors, federal court judges, immigration members, and deputy ministers across government, non-profit, and private sectors.
I have worked for well-known organizations such as KPMG, Bank of Montreal, Deloitte, Royal Bank of Canada, and Oxford Properties, where I managed a portfolio of Class-A buildings in downtown Toronto. My roles have included minute-taking, agenda preparation, board package finalization, HR coordination, and bookkeeping.
For two years, I worked as a market researcher, collecting data on political and environmental topics while also contributing to community outreach programs. I was a workshop presenter and volunteer coordinator for Ovarian Cancer Canada’s Walk of Hope fundraiser.
My event coordination and logistical expertise include executive searches, science and technology conferences, summer festivals, office moves, and international shipments. As a Deputy Returning Officer, I verified voter information, counted ballots, and participated in electoral reform advocacy efforts.
Additionally, I have been deeply involved in political campaigns at both provincial and federal levels, gaining skills through electoral workshops covering budgeting, media consistency, financial audits, and messaging strategies. As a digital human rights activist with Amnesty International and the Canadian Journalists for Free Expression (CJFE), I have earned certifications in cybersecurity, data privacy, and social engineering.
I live in the Esquimalt electoral district in Victoria and enjoy reading, cooking, painting, boxing, and martial arts. I am committed to bringing my administrative expertise and dedication to the role of Secretary to support the BC Green Party’s mission and governance.
Councillor-at-Large (1 Position)
Breony Ayers (Incumbent)
Breony believes that leadership begins with listening to people, to communities, and to the land we share. Over the past 20 years, I’ve dedicated my work to advancing equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility (EDIA) across education, community services, and governance. My approach is rooted in collaboration, compassion, and accountability. This helps to ensure that every voice is heard and every person has access to the opportunities they deserve.
As a member of the Board of the Royal Roads University Student Association, Breony has seen firsthand how thoughtful, transparent and inclusive policy-making can transform institutions and lives. I’ve led initiatives that strengthen transitions from K–12 to post-secondary education, improve accessibility for students with diverse abilities and foster inclusive practices that empower both learners and educators. My community work has focused on building individuals self confidence, life skills, belonging and ability to self advocate. I believe social sustainability is as essential as environmental sustainability.
As a Green Party Councillor, their vision is to continue strengthening the connection between people and policy. I want to see communities where equity, environmental care, and social justice are not just
goals, but core values that guide their actions. This means advocating for transparent decision-making,
sustainable development, and support systems that prioritize people’s well-being and caring for the world around us. We have a lot of work to do, but I believe with clear guidance and strong leadership, we can make a difference.
At the heart of their work is a simple belief: that when communities are inclusive, informed, and engaged, meaningful change becomes possible. I am committed to building a greener, fairer, and more connected British Columbia, where every individual can thrive. As a Councillor at Large with the Green Party of BC, Breony is committed to fostering transparent governance, social equity, and environmental
stewardship to build resilient, connected communities across British Columbia. I hope for the opportunity to continue to work and grow with the BC Greens, contributing to the party’s mission of creating a more just, inclusive, and sustainable future.
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I am an experienced advocate for equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility with over 20 years of
leadership in education, community development, and human rights. A graduate of Royal Roads University’s Justice Studies program and former member of the Board of the Royal Roads University Student Association, I have worked to advance inclusive policies, strengthen accessibility in post-secondary education, and build community-based initiatives that promote confidence, belonging, and sustainability. As a Councillor at Large with the Green Party of BC, I am committed to fostering transparent governance, social equity, and environmental stewardship to build resilient, connected communities across British Columbia. I hope for the opportunity to continue to work and grow with the BC Greens, contributing to the party’s mission of creating a more just, inclusive, and sustainable future.
Erin Hussey
Erin Hussey is a social entrepreneur in the education space. For the last 23 years he has worked in
independent education as a Business Administrator, Principal, School Founder and Head of Schools. He has founded three educational organizations: Claro Learning Centres (clarolife.com), Kleos Open Learning (Kleos.ca) and The Balsam School (thebalsamschool.ca). He has a Master of Arts in Public Administration degree from Carleton University, and has had a lifelong passion for supporting, founding and operating organizations that have a bottom-line beyond simply dollars and cents. His involvement in the Green Party has included a short stint creating party policy during the Andrew Weaver years, being an Evergreen donor, and providing general support to the local Kelowna Greens when Sonia was first elected. Erin believes the need in British Columbia for BC Green leadership and influence in provincial government has never been more important, and he is looking forward to increasing his direct involvement and contribution to the Party.
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Dear friends, since the 1980s western governments at all levels, have viewed the people they are responsible for as consumers rather than citizens. Rather than being preoccupied with creating policies and services focussed on the health and well being of citizens, they became obsessed with making life affordable and, “putting more money back in the pockets,” of consumers. Please do not get me wrong, I absolutely want the BC government to watch every penny and not place an undue financial burden on anyone. Our party must be seen as fiscally responsible, however, rather than zeroing in on “keeping gas prices low” so “consumers” have a less expensive fuel up, the provincial government should be focussed on keeping “clean air, fresh healthy food, excellent medical care, schools, etc.” available to all citizens. We need a People-First government, not a Consumer (or Corporation)-First government. I want to join our Provincial Council to support our Party to be singularly focussed on supporting the health and wellbeing of the citizens of our province.
Donald Scott MacDonald
Over his career Dr. MacDonald worked in Atlantic Canada, the far north, Toronto, and for the last twenty years in downtown Vancouver. During his career as a general practitioner Dr. MacDonald has served in the Canadian Armed Forces, providing care to Northern Communities in Manitoba and Nunavut. Most recently he has provided care as a GP helping people with mental illness and dealing with the consequences of unregulated drug use. He has worked to reach people outside of care, and to improve public safety.
He worked as the physician lead at Providence Health Care’s Crosstown Clinic, where he gained experience in leadership and governance.
He was a researcher on a number of studies involving the novel program at the clinic and is an author on multiple papers. Topics include drug policy, patient centred care and disability justice.
He was treasurer of a charity called Save Lives Safe Communities.
He has been a member of the Green Party at all levels over the years. He ran for the Green Party of Canada in Vancouver Centre in the last federal election.
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We face many challenges as a province. I am running to be a councilor-at-large to help support the BC Greens have the best possible outcome in the next provincial election.
My home is in downtown Vancouver. The people I meet here every day are resilient and practical. They want a safe place to live, good health care for themselves and their neighbours, and an opportunity to make a good living. The Green Party has a perspective that offers pragmatic solutions for today and the best hope for a bright future for our youth. It is time for an economy that is strong and well-positioned to find opportunities in the coming transitions.
The tools exist to make British Columbia a cleaner, safer, and inclusive Province. I hope to be part of the provincial council and help position the party for success in the next election.
Prym Goodacre
I’ve been organizing around issues like housing, transit, and affordability to stand up to the status-quo for a decade. As a teen, I saw the ways my peers were left behind by the inaccessibility and unaffordability of local arts spaces. In response, I organized free, accessible events for hundreds of youth to create and experience art: this sparked my passion for community service. At Victoria city council, I organized dozens of young people to speak in favour of motions which would bring affordable housing, walkable streets, and rapid transit to our city. This work continued during my tenure as a director on my student union board, where I reshaped our housing and transit policy to ensure our union was advocating for material solutions to the crises which affect us all. I’ve worked with non-profits like The Good Food Box and Coastal Research, Education, and Advocacy Network to organize fundraisers, put on free community events, and build coalitions to take on the province’s biggest issues. After working on multiple initiatives at my local Neighbourhood House, I took my experience to work with Emily Lowan on her leadership campaign. From growing our membership, to bringing together local canvasses, to writing key policies, I got to experience first-hand how to run a strong, Green campaign. Through my years of advocacy, I’ve passed key policy in board meetings, raised tens of thousands with grassroots fundraising, and successfully organized for mass-mobilization. With these skills, I want to serve the B.C. Greens so we can organize, fight, and win.
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Throughout my decade of experience organizing, my work has always come back to one, central belief: a better world is possible. From fighting for affordable housing in city council, to writing province-wide labour policy for the Emily Lowan leadership campaign, I’ve seen the ways even the smallest acts of resistance against the status-quo can change our lives for the better. As a worker, a renter, and a union-member, I’m tired of witnessing how other political parties are selling us out to the 1%. The B.C. Greens have an incredible opportunity to push back, and I’m excited to serve our membership and work to bring us to the forefront of B.C. politics. We can build a party that not only takes a stand on the issues that matter — worsening affordability, climate collapse, eroding labour rights — but that has the power to change them. A better world is possible, and together, we can bring it to life.
Ombudsperson (1 Position)
Patricia Bolton (Incumbent)
RN 1973 VGH : Burn Unit 7 years
BSN 1982 UBC: MOH intern and Union Consultant
MSC 1985 UBC: incomplete thesis Health Care Planning
MA 2007 RRU: Community Engagement District of West Vancouver
2006- 2008: International Ombuds Association Diploma
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I seek the position of Ombuds for the BC Green Party because it’s a perfect service for me to provide the party at this time in my life. With my nursing background and graduate studies in both health administration and conflict analysis and management complemented with added courses from the International Ombuds Association. It just seems like a perfect fit.
I took the course as I was advocating for an umbuds office in our new community centre at the time. Besides arts and culture most of my volunteer work in the last 30 years has been in crafting and drafting community engagement policies and working group guidelines. I brought these experiences forward into my EDA role as director of outreach and volunteers.
I’ve always been comfortable in the space between people and between groups. As a patient advocate through to the processes guided by the principles of an Ombuds: independence, impartiality, fairness, confidentiality and credibility, I am encouraged I have the correct skills.
What I like about the position is it can be designed to suit the context. In my experience that usually means, one person to report to and minimal paperwork. This is to protect the clients and the Ombuds. As this would be my first experience in provincial politics the not voting aspect would be helpful for my neutrality as I go up the learning curve. Thank you for your consideration and providing me this opportunity to serve.
Kathy Porter
Kathy brings over 30 years of professional experience as a facilitator, mediator, researcher, and educator to the role of Ombuds. Her clients have included municipal, provincial and indigenous governing bodies, consulting firms, and community organizations. She facilitated a multi-party consensus agreement for the Environmental Management Framework for the Alberta Oils Sands, a joint labour management council for the BC Seafood Sector Alliance, a design thinking strategy for the Okanagan Nation Alliance, and a Strategic Foresight process for the annual Environmental Flow Needs conference.
As a Board Member for Caravan Farm Theatre she helped to guide strategic planning and board policy. Her work, to transform conflicted relations brings creative approaches including Experiential Futures and Participatory Theatre as a way to work across difference. She has served on the Federal Green Party EDA in the Okanagan as the Financial Agent for a Federal NDP Candidate also in the Okanagan.
As a member of Mediators Beyond Borders International (MBBI) she has attended the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Congress of Parties (COP) in Glasgow and Sharm-El-Sheik virtually and in Dubai in person as an official UN Observer. In Dubai, she participated in numerous dialogues on climate related issues and hosted a session consensus building.
After two years at an international think tank in Austria, she pursued a certificate in Conflict Resolution and Negotiation, and holds a Master of Design with a focus on Strategic Foresight and Innovation from the Ontario College of Art and Design University. Currently she is a Policy and Politics PhD Candidate at Toronto Metropolitan University in the Communication and Culture Program and is a recipient of a Social Science and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) Doctoral Fellowship. The focus of her research is on creative approaches to policy design.
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I am passionate about the synergy that occurs when concerned individuals come together to wrestle with real world issues. Collaboration is not only possible but can occur when people are willing to listen deeply, tap into their innate knowing, evaluate options fairly, and maintain a sense of curiosity about the other perspectives at the table.
Regional Councillor, Lower Mainland (1 Position)
Nicola Spurling (Incumbent)
Nicola Spurling is a small business owner, running a residential renovation company. She spends her spare time, outside of her role with the BC Greens, volunteering on the board of QMUNITY, sitting on the Vancouver Whitecaps’ Pride Advisory Committee and Advocacy Canada’s Inclusion In Sports Committee, playing soccer and floor hockey, cross-country skiing, and documenting historic events through photography.
Nicola is one of the hardest working people you will ever meet, and she’s passionate about what she does. Passion and hard work is a recipe for progress and change, and Nicola’s background is full of both.
Nicola has been instrumental in drafting and promoting legislation passed by the BC Greens. She’s stood up to political bullies at all levels of government. She’s an outspoken advocate for people in need. When you’re facing a challenge, you want Nicola in your corner.
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I first ran as a candidate for the BC Greens in 2017. I was a 2SLGBTQIA+ advocate, approached by the party to put my name forward. I’ve since weathered trials and tribulations to run in the 2020 and 2024 elections, each time seeking to provide much needed representation for the BC Greens in the Lower Mainland, specifically Coquitlam-Maillardville.
You may know me for holding political leaders accountable. Perhaps you’ve heard about me through
the media, having been a party pundit on CBC radio and participated in a variety of news stories on behalf of the party. Maybe you know me through social media, local events, or in some other way. Or, maybe this is your first introduction to me.
Beyond my involvement in the general functioning of the party, as the Lower Mainland Representative on Provincial Council, I’ve sought to ensure better diversity among members and candidates via our EDI committee. I’ve encouraged strengthening of complaints processes as well as document retention
practices. Additionally, I bring unique perspectives to council – those of a queer woman in the trades. I
understand the intersections between construction, environmental action, and how to support people.
A vote for me is a vote for progress. Thank you
Madeline Kennedy-Parrott
madeline.kennedy-parrott@bcgreens.ca
Maddy was born in Victoria, but at the age of 6, her father joined the Canadian Foreign Services, and she was whisked off to Tokyo, Japan: the first stop in a whirlwind childhood of growing up all around the world. Since then, she’s lived in six countries and has visited at least thirty more. Living in Japan inspired in her a love of buildings, and after returning to Canada for her last few years of high school, Maddy pursued and received a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Queen’s University followed by a Master of Engineering in Building Science from BCIT. As part of both she learned firsthand how much buildings have played a part in climate breakdown, and has spent the last decade of her professional career working to make
buildings better.
She is an Associate at one of North America’s premier building science consulting firms, which delivers high performance, climate-resilient building solutions. Maddy specializes in holistic design: integrating building enclosure, HVAC systems, and energy modelling to help buildings reach their highest potential in reducing energy and emissions. While she works on all types of projects, she is particularly passionate about leveraging Canada’s existing building stock to help achieve our climate goals. Almost a third of Canada’s emissions can be attributed to buildings and more than half of those buildings use fossil fuel heating systems. Maddy sees existing buildings as an opportunity for Canada to make meaningful progress towards our climate and emissions goals.
Maddy is committed to decarbonization for addressing climate concerns; but she well and truly understands that providing solutions to the climate crisis goes hand in hand with social justice and the need to improve the lives of everyday Canadians. She sees daily how the folks most impacted by climate change are the ones with the least agency. She works diligently to provide technically sound, equitable solutions that go beyond “fitting into the bottom line” affordable solutions that fix existing problems, adapt tenants and provide comfort in a changing climate, and build community: all without contributing further to the climate crisis.
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For most of my adult life, I’ve voted green at every opportunity because I am aligned in every way with the values and principles of this party. I’ve always hoped that it would be enough, that eventually change would come. Over that same timeframe, I’ve watched these values of ours get labelled ‘radical’ and ‘ideological’ while I watch most other parties move even further away from us. It’s become clear to me that voting is not enough. Government is for the people, BY the people. I care too much about my job to run for office, but I want to do more. I think we have an incredibly unique opportunity in BC politics: the sitting government is dropping the ball and the opposition is in disarray, and I believe the BC Greens can speak directly to how most people are actually feeling. I’m smart and I know I can help us seize this opportunity with both hands and make the BC Greens a force to be reckoned with, and that’s why I’m running for regional councillor for the lower mainland.
Regional Councillor, Okanagan-Kootenays (1 Position)
Bradley Bartsch (Incumbent)
Bradley Bartsch, who is running for MLA in Penticton-Summerland, is passionate about unlocking the region’s potential for environmental and economic prosperity. His focus on community-driven development aligns with the BC Greens’ vision for a sustainable future.
Bradley and his wife of 40 years moved to Penticton in August 2021, and he has loved becoming a part of this South Okanagan community.
His experience spans some of Canada’s leading for-profit and non-profit organizations. He has worked across economic sectors including education, social services, international development, arts & culture, and athletics. His previous roles include positions at Ronald McDonald House BC/Yukon, Co:Here Housing Society (Vancouver, BC), World Vision Canada (Toronto, ON), Simon Fraser University (Burnaby, BC), RBC Financial Group, and the Abbotsford Heat Hockey Club (Abbotsford, BC).
Raised on the scenic west coast of Canada, Bradley graduated from Simon Fraser University with a BA in Political Science and Business Administration. A lifelong multi-sport athlete, he enjoys the outdoors and remains engaged in physical activities.
In 2017, Bradley faced a major life change when he suffered a significant stroke. His journey to recovery reinforced his commitment to serving his community and advocating for improved health and well-being initiatives.
Bradley is eager to bring his leadership experience, strategic vision, and commitment to sustainability to the BC Green Party, working toward a stronger and more resilient future for British Columbia.
Regional Councillor, Vancouver Island & South Coast (1 Position)
Theodore (Ted) McNicol
Ted’s career has primarily been in Human Resources and Information Systems in a variety of national and international organizations. His speciaty areas in HR have been in HR strategy, Total Rewards, Performance Management and HR systems.
He has spent 35 years in post-secondary education, acquiring an MBA, an Honours B. Comm., a Diploma in Computer Science and other certifications, including in change management, human assessment, finance (budgeting, insurance and investment) and has taught in 3 universities and colleges.
In 2008, Ted decided to be an independent consultant, taking on assignments in management coaching and business development, contract photography and process analysis/change management. He has also volunteered in various organizations, serving as President, Gibsons & District Chamber of Commerce, on the Board for Vancouver & area Métis groups, as a Patient Research Ambassador with the Canadian Institute of Health, as a HR leader on the Chartered Professionals of BC Board and other HR associations and as an event coordinator.
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I have always had a passion for protecting our environment. In the “old days” I was a campaign worker
for the NDP, even though there are some conflicts between supporting unions and trying to keep our land and the seas unspoiled. I left BC for Ottawa as a government employee and a Human Resources
manager. At one point I worked in the USA and was alarmed by the ethics within the resource industry
regarding personal enrichment vs. despoiling the lands.
When I returned to Vancouver I saw similar acts motivated by greed, while seeing how poorly people are treated. Overall I think government needs to protect nature while ensuring people have fundamental rights and provision for their care (including everyone having a right to shelter, food, health care (mental and physical and education). With the AI juggernaut potentially threatening those fundamental needs, we need to act now to preserve the Earth and all occupants.
Severin Odland
Severin has a MSc in Environmental Psychology from the University of Victoria and currently works as an Infrastructure Planner at BC Transit. A lifelong environmentalist, Severin’s professional experience has bridged ecological conservation, climate policy, and community impact.
After completing undergraduate degrees in Psychology and Environmental Science, Severin started his career in wildlife ecology doing conservation research. A desire to address route causes led him to study the human dimensions of climate change as a Master’s student of Environmental Psychology at UVic, where his research focused on climate policy and renewable transitions in the coal mining communities of BC’s Elk Valley. His concluding focus on community investment and green jobs motivates his current work at BC Transit where he collaborates with municipal governments across BC to build out public transit infrastructure.
Outside of work Severin has experience in community organizing, previously as a member of Climate Justice Victoria, presently as a volunteer at Red Cedar Cafe, and most recently as a Senior Policy Advisor and Communications Volunteer on Emily Lowan’s campaign for BC Green Party Leadership.
Severin is a strong communicator and collaborator who enjoys leadership positions and working with a team. In both his professional and activist roles, Severin is a planner. He is strategically minded and values outcomes-based approaches to politics. He intends to use his understanding of the key metrics that made Emily Lowan’s campaign successful (such as volunteer recruitment and retention rates, membership diversity, event participation, digital engagement, size of donor base, etc.) to design and implement strategic plans to grow the BC Green Party and mobilize its power into tangible results, including expanding and strengthening Riding Associations, winning more legislative seats, and increasing the party’s provincial profile.
Severin intends to bring his passion for climate justice, commitment to community impact, policy expertise, and his organizational and administrative skills to the role of Regional Representative for Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast.
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Before becoming a permanent resident of BC, I grew up in the U.S. It didn’t take me long to recognize how both federal parties work together to maintain regressive politics, and for a time I felt hopeless. Green politics changed that by showing me the strength of uniting people power and environmentalism to fight corporate domination. I fear two-party politics becoming the norm in BC, and I am committed to building the BC Greens into a powerful, mobilized, leftist alternative.
As a Senior Policy Advisor with Emily Lowan’s campaign, I helped craft the vision of a Green BC that party members supported with a sweeping mandate. Serving on the Provincial Council would be a natural next step following my past organizing with Climate Justice Victoria and Emily’s campaign. In my years living, working, and organizing in Victoria, I’ve fallen in love with Vancouver Island and look forward to building deeper connections throughout the province. I promise to be an accessible, engaged, and driven Representative to help realize a strong Green presence in our communities. I helped author Emily’s 100 Day Plan, and I have a clear strategic vision of how to grow our base and mobilize its power.
Kevin Johnston
Kevin Johnston has lived in communities across British Columbia and has seen firsthand the diversity, resilience, and challenges that shape life in this province. Having worked in the private sector, government, and non-profit organizations, he brings a grounded understanding of how policy decisions impact people and communities. Kevin believes this is not a time for hesitation, but a moment that demands creativity, responsibility, and principled leadership.
Kevin currently serves as the Executive Chair of the Nanaimo Riding Association of the BC Green Party, rebuilding local engagement and strengthening democratic participation. In this role, he chairs meetings, facilitates decision-making, and works to build collaborative relationships across diverse perspectives. Previously, he served on a Parent Advisory Council, where he gained valuable experience in governance, advocacy, and community organizing.
Kevin holds an Engineering Diploma from Thompsons River University, which shaped his disciplined and solution-focused approach to problem-solving: build strong foundations, listen carefully, analyze challenges, and act with purpose. His decades of experience in information technology maintenance further developed his ability to assess complex systems, ask the right questions, and understand the human side of decision-making. As a tutor, he witnessed widening inequality and the barriers faced by people seeking opportunity. These experiences strengthened his belief that leadership must be rooted in fairness and service to others.
Living on disability has given Kevin a deep understanding of systemic inequity and social exclusion. He has seen how easy it is for people to fall through the cracks—and how essential strong community and compassion are in building resilience. His lived experience informs his commitment to equity, dignity, and meaningful participation for all.
Kevin believes that meaningful progress begins with people. When individuals and families feel secure—through stable housing, accessible health care, and strong community supports—they are empowered to participate in building a better future. To advance climate action, reconciliation, and economic transition, British Columbia must ensure that no one is left behind.
With innovation, dedication and compassion, Kevin will bring integrity, inclusiveness, and disciplined leadership to help strengthen the party’s democratic foundation and build a more just and resilient British Columbia.
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I am running for Provincial Council because I believe in the purpose and potential of the BC Green Party. We are building a movement rooted in compassion, sustainability and accountability—one that refuses to leave people behind.
For over a decade, I have navigated life on disability. That experience has given me more than a story—it has given me perspective. I know what it feels like to be excluded by systems that weren’t built for everyone. I know what it’s like to fight for dignity, stability and a sense of belonging. But I also know what it means to be supported, encouraged and lifted up by community. Those experiences have shaped my deepest values: fairness, inclusion and the belief that everyone deserves the chance to reach their full potential.
The BC Greens are the only party with a policy foundation that reflects those values. We don’t just talk about equity—we build it into our decisions. We don’t just promise better—we plan for it. I want to help strengthen our party’s democratic foundation, grow our movement, and ensure members’ voices are always at the heart of our work.