President 

Jessica MacSween is a Professional Biologist currently working as an Environmental Scientist, where she is responsible for the cleanup of contaminated sites.

Jessica holds a Master of Science degree in Environmental Science from Memorial University of Newfoundland. She studied ecosystem ecology, focusing on boreal forest and stream health.

She has worked for Cape Breton Highlands National Park on projects related to water quality and fish health, as well as worked for Cape Breton University in researching treatment technologies and contamination from abandoned and underground coalmines of the Sydney Coalfield.

Her passion for the environment started at a young age while living in Marion Bridge playing in streams and the forest; throughout the years she has dedicated her time to working in the environmental sector and teaching youth about the importance of stream ecosystems and clean water.

Vice President 

Ruthmol Baby is a Public Health graduate from Cape Breton University. Originally from India, she moved to Canada in 2022 to pursue her passion for public health.

With a background in pharmacy and experience launching cancer care initiatives, Ruthmol now works as a Mental Health and Addiction Support Worker.

Gardening has always been a cherished hobby, particularly planting fruit trees and vegetables alongside her mother. During her studies, she actively participated in the Ecosystem and Social Club, where she contributed to school clean-up drives, distributed saplings to students, and organized environmental campaigns.

Ruthmol is deeply committed to environmental sustainability and believes in the power of community collaboration to address climate change. She’s eager to connect and work together toward a healthier, greener future!

Dylan Yates 

After graduating with a diploma in Natural Resource Environmental Technology from NSCC, Dylan attended Cape Breton University graduating with a Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Environmental Studies.

He has spent the last several years volunteering and working with various environmental organizations throughout Canada, including Cape Breton Environmental Association, Unama'ki Institute of Natural Resources, Sea Change Canada, Fishing Gear Coalition of Atlantic Canada, the Global Ghost Gear Initiative and the Nova Scotia Environmental Network. 

In 2021 Divert Nova Scotia presented Dylan with a Mobius Awards of Environmental Excellence. Dylan was recognized as an environmental champion under the age of 30 who goes above and beyond with environmental efforts in the community.

As a volunteer he has spent the past several years tackling littering, and illegal dumping within the CBRM; as well as abandoned lost and discarded fishing gear otherwise known as ghost gear spearheading many environmental initiatives.

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He produced a documentary about marine debris in Atlantic Canada!

You can watch the full documentary here: https://youtu.be/Y1r51_M_yTA

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Danielle Casagrande has been volunteering with CBEA since 2018 and recently decided to join our board of directors!

When she’s not crocheting, Danielle can be found outside exploring the many trails and waterfalls that our island boasts.

Her passion for the environment stems from her love of the outdoors and taking care of the beautiful place we get to call home. She currently works in Community Economic Development and is actively working towards her MBA as well as expanding upon her crochet business

Shealyn Varnes is an actor, facilitator and vendor coordinator from North Sydney, Unama'ki.

She loves spending time outdoors, whether it's walking her dog Odie, hiking, swimming, camping, or skiing.

She is a zero waste advocate and believes deeply in projects that give back to her community and the environment, so she's looking forward to becoming further involved with the Cape Breton Environmental Association as a board member!