Spring 2025

March 11, 2025

As the days grow longer and the coast comes alive with new energy, spring is the perfect time to embrace learning in the region. Whether you're eager to explore local ecology, dive into creative workshops, or learn about the local history, the season offers inspiring opportunities to connect with place and community.

In this edition of our quarterly newsletter, we’re sharing upcoming learning experiences and getting excited about events coming up later this year. From hands-on workshops to immersive outdoor programs, there’s something for everyone.

Join us as we celebrate the season of renewal and discovery. Read on to find your next learning adventure!

Wild Stories: Youth Photography Camp

Calling all young storytellers! Are you passionate about wildlife and photography? Join us for a fun-filled, four-day camp in Tofino from August 11–14, where you'll learn to capture the wild faces and places of the Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Region through your lens. Designed for youth (ages 11–14+), this immersive experience will teach ethical wildlife photography, helping you develop the skills to tell compelling visual stories. Led by instructor Sam Rose Phillips, with special guest speakers, this camp will leave you feeling inspired, confident, and ready to create impactful and unforgettable photos. Sign up today!

About the Instructor: Sam Rose Phillips

Sam Rose Phillips is a photographer, filmmaker, and poet based in Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ territory. She focuses her lens on human-wildlife stories and their significance to coastal communities. Her words, images, and films have been put to the task of community and conservation projects around the world, published by Save Our Seas Magazine, CBC’s The Wild Canadian Year, and Outdoor Photography Magazine. She hosts photography workshops with individuals, small groups, school classes, and was a filmmaking mentor with youth from ƛaʔuukʷiʔatḥ (Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation) and Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ (Ucluelet First Nation).

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Wild Stories Photography Camp West Coast NEST Sam Rose Phillips

Last Year's Wild Stories Youth Photography Camp

In the summer of 2024, we hosted a youth photography camp for the kakaw̓inminḥ women and girls group from Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ (Ucluelet First Nation). During this immersive experience, participants not only honed their photography skills but also developed a deeper understanding of the ethical and cultural considerations that come with capturing powerful images. Throughout the camp, they were guided by a range of experts and knowledge keepers. They explored a stunning wetland, wandered through forested areas, and discovered a beautiful rocky beach with each location offering new inspiration for their photography.

Maritime Kids Days | Pacific Rim Whale Festival

The Pacific Rim Whale Festival is hosting their popular Maritime Kids days in both Tofino (March 18) and Ucluelet (March 20). This event features a variety of hands-on educational activities designed for all ages. Join this immersive experience in interactive learning that fosters curiosity and wonder for the marine ecosystem.

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Raincoast Education Society Ambassador Program

Small Town, Big Picture: Tofino | Ambassador Program

This three-hour orientation session delivers the “big picture” of living in Tofino. Learn about local history and basic ecology, cross-cultural understanding, businesses and activities, festivals, host etiquette, and important civic information. This is a great way to get up-to-date local’s information about living and working in Tofino.

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Pacific Rim Whale Festival Southern Resident Killer Whales

Southern Resident Killer Whales | Pacific Rim Whale Festival

Join the Pacific Rim Festival and Jennifer Yakimishyn, Marine Ecologist from the Pacific Rim National Park, and learn about the science and conservation happening to protect the endangered southern resident killer whales and their habitat.

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West Coast Fibre Art Retreat West Coast NEST

2025 West Coast Fibre Art Retreat

Save the date! Join us for our 8th West Coast Fibre Art Retreat at the stunning Black Rock Oceanfront Resort from November 12 to 14! Stay tuned for more information, ticket registration will be available soon. In the meantime, take a look back at our 2024 Fibre Art Retreat to relive the creativity, connection, and unforgettable moments from last year and get inspired for this year’s event!