Tell us a little about yourself.  

Hi, I am Evalina, a grade 11 student at Canmore Collegiate High School. Since I live in the mountains, I spend most of my free time skiing, hiking, and exploring the outdoors. I love the unique challenges you have to overcome when you’re outside and in the backcountry. I also have several other creative hobbies, including playing in a jazz band, photography, and art.

Why are you excited to participate in Shad? What are you most looking forward to?

I am most looking forward to meeting so many like-minded teens who share the same inspirations and curiosity as I do, and I can’t wait to build lasting friendships during this coming month. I am also extremely excited to develop our project and get first-hand experience trying to solve a real-world issue.

What sparks your curiosity or interest in STEAM and/or entrepreneurship?

My passion for STEAM comes from a love for hands-on and creative problem-solving. Being in a school that has many STEM-focused option classes has allowed me to explore a passion for science that goes beyond learning formulas. I love how labs and projects lay a foundation for a deeper, curious mindset that promotes asking questions, challenging assumptions, and thinking outside the box.

How do you envision your future?

I envision a future where I can pursue a career in STEM that allows me to develop impactful projects and have a chance to make a difference. I want to inspire and give back to the very community that let me grow. Since I have grown up surrounded by nature I have developed a connection to the environment. So, in future careers I would like to focus on environmental sciences, biology and the use of synthetic biology or engineering in solving issues like climate change.