1. What inspired you to join the LEAF Board of Directors?
I love urban forests and green spaces — they are genuinely my happy place! So, the opportunity to engage with and support LEAF felt like a natural fit. I admire the work LEAF does around tree planting, forest stewardship and education, and am thrilled to be part of the broader team working to protect and strengthen our urban forest and deepen people’s connection with nature.
2. What experience do you bring to the role?
I have spent the past 25 years working across the not-for-profit and private sectors, largely in Asia and Africa, on environmental sustainability and social impact, particularly within global supply chains. I have also served on a number of boards and advisory committees. Through these experiences, I have developed expertise in areas including strategy, stakeholder engagement, governance and financial management. I hope to bring these experiences and perspectives to the LEAF Board and contribute to the organization more broadly as it continues to grow its impact.
3. What do you see as some of the most pressing issues facing urban forests?
Forests everywhere are facing unprecedented pressures, and urban forests are no exception. Climate change is bringing more extreme heat, storms, drought and invasive species, while growing cities create ongoing pressure on land and trees. I think one of the biggest challenges — and opportunities — is ensuring that we not only plant more trees, but protect and care for the trees we already have and help communities understand the enormous value of a healthy urban forest. Trees are not simply a beautiful addition to our cities; they are essential infrastructure that supports human health, biodiversity, climate resilience and more liveable communities.
4. How do you see LEAF currently, or potentially, addressing some of these issues?
The work LEAF does through tree planting, stewardship and education is critically important because it addresses several parts of the challenge at once. Planting the right trees in the right places is essential, but so is ensuring that those trees survive and thrive over the long term. LEAF’s emphasis on stewardship and education helps build the knowledge, skills and sense of ownership needed to make that happen. I am also excited by LEAF’s focus on engaging communities and expanding access to the benefits of the urban forest. I see tremendous potential to continue building partnerships, reaching communities that have historically had less access to green space, and helping more people see themselves as active stewards of the urban forest.
5. Are you involved in any other community initiatives?
Yes! Another issue that is very close to my heart is supporting refugees and newcomers as they build their lives in Canada. I currently volunteer with a couple of organizations that help refugees and recent immigrants practise their English as well as navigate their new communities and settle into life in Canada. I find it incredibly rewarding to play even a small part in helping people feel more confident, connected and at home in their new communities.
We are thrilled to have Masarrat bring her expertise, passion and global perspective to the LEAF Board! Her experience in environmental sustainability and social impact, combined with her deep commitment to community, will be a tremendous asset as we work to protect and strengthen our urban forest in the years ahead.
Janet McKay is the Executive Director at LEAF.
Masarrat Quader is an Urban Forest Champion – someone who has made a positive impact on our urban forest through their professional, volunteer or personal efforts.