Melissa Yestrau

Actua, Network Member Leadership and Development Coach

I grew up spending summers at my grandma’s farm in rural Manitoba. My love for the natural environment was influenced by my grandma, as she had a deep understanding of plants, animals and weather patterns. She taught me how to test seeds for viability by sprouting them. I also learned how to keep eggs from breaking in an ice cream pail by swinging the pail in fast circles – an early physics lesson! During my time at the university, I became involved in STEM education and continued this journey at the University of Victoria as the Director of Science Venture and now with Actua. I am committed to ensuring all youth in our community access relevant STEM learning opportunities. I strongly feel the Living Lab Network is creating a positive space for learning.