Rajesh Sama (he/him) is from Winnipeg, Manitoba, on Treaty 1 territory, the traditional territory of the Anishinaabeg, Cree, Oji-Cree, Dene and Dakota peoples, and on the homeland of the Red River Métis Nation.

Rajesh is a student at the University of Manitoba in Environmental Studies with a focus on environmental assessment and comes from a family that has a deep interest in climate, especially how it relates to growing fresh food. His mother immigrated to Canada from Jamaica and learned how to garden from his grandfather. When she arrived in Winnipeg, she was unable to find the fresh herbs and spices that she had back home and so she learnt how to grow these in their own house and yard. Working with his mom and throughout his university experience, Rajesh has gained a strong understanding of the impact of climate change. Through coursework and field experiences, he has also learnt about the importance of environmental work in his personal community.

Spending some time around Selkirk, Rajesh has been able to see the advancements and commitments that Selkirk has made to protecting and sustaining the environment and is excited to learn from the municipality and staff that have put such a wonderful environmental system together.

One goal he has during this internship is to learn more about municipal climate initiatives and how they can make the community a better place to live in through changes, small to large.