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MEMBER PROFILE: Deborah Kenley
Deborah Kenley is the Senior Coordinator of Greening Corporate Grounds at Credit Valley Conservation and a member of MBOT’s Environment, Sustainability & Infrastructure Committee. We spoke to her recently about her job and her experience as an MBOT member.
Tell us about your organization and your role.
Credit Valley Conservation (CVC) is one of 36 Conservation Authorities in Ontario. We’re a community-based organization dedicated to protecting, conserving and restoring the natural resources in the Credit River Watershed. I manage CVC’s Greening Corporate Grounds program, which provides sustainable landscaping consultation and support to businesses and organizations in the Credit River Watershed. I’ve been doing this for 11 years and I love helping businesses create action plans to implement green infrastructure and help them manage stormwater and prevent flooding.
When did you join MBOT and what role do you play?
CVC has a long history with MBOT, but we started playing a more active role in 2018. I’ve personally been involved for about three years as a member of the Environment, Sustainability & Infrastructure Committee. The goal of this committee is to provide education and support for the business community in the areas of environmental sustainability and corporate social responsibility. It’s a really active and action-based committee led by Brad Butt [MBOT’s Vice President, Government and Stakeholder Relations].
What’s your favourite aspect of MBOT?
As a member of the committee, I enjoy meeting new people, seeing interesting presentations by business leaders and supporters, and engaging with Mississauga’s business community. I feel like I can contribute in a meaningful way. They take an inclusive approach and welcome different perspectives. It’s very rewarding for me, both professionally and personally.
What would you say to someone who is thinking about joining MBOT?
I would say: just do it! MBOT really advocates for its members and there’s always something to engage in. They have an excellent speaker series and there are so many opportunities to network. It’s easy to see the return on your investment.
To learn more about the Credit Valley Conservation’s Greening Corporate Grounds program visit www.cvc.ca/gcg
This article has been edited for length and clarity.
