Our Leaders

Markku and his wife Leah are spearheading the vision and work of the Canadian A Rocha projects. Markku is a Professional Biologist and outdoor enthusiast and has worked as an environmental consultant in the private sector. He is passionate about helping people from all walks of life and experience the wonder of creation and the love of the creator. Markku enjoys cross country skiing and sailing, especially if they can be done with this wife and daughters Maya and Bryn.

David gives leadership and oversight to the various education, conservation and agriculture programs which keep the Centre humming. David, a biologist and most recently a pastor with a passion for young-adult education, is excited to further develop A Rocha’s internship program and connect with the local community.

Elizabeth has been active in the non-profit community for the past 20 years, with diverse experience in both professional and volunteer roles. She holds an MDiv from Regent College and a BA from the University of Windsor. Her early background is in land use planning and municipal administration in SW Ontario. She has also served in church planting and as Director of Development for Outreach Canada. She is interested in meaningful actions around sustainability and change and enjoys sharing her love of the outdoors, jazz, and snowshoeing with her husband Patrick.

Rick combines academic backgrounds in science and theology with a love for the outdoors. His desire is for people to integrate their spiritual life with their experience of the created world. With A Rocha, he works alongside schools, churches, and community groups to coordinate adult education in a variety of forms including lectures, classes, conferences, and outdoor excursions. Rick, his wife Crista, son Jared, and daughter Zoë live and play at the A Rocha Field Study Centre in Surrey, BC.

The Pharaohs left their jobs in Winnipeg in order to serve A Rocha in the Pembina Valley, MB. They share a passion for hospitality, the arts and gardening. A close acquaintance recently said of them, “If you’re looking for a couple who’ll make you feel right at home (and who will keep that home in tip top repair) then Nick and Susan are your couple!” So if you’re in the Pembina Valley over the next year and are looking for some good Manitoban hospitality, stop by the Field Study Centre for a cup of tea and a tour – the Pharaohs would love to meet you.

Steven brings significant leadership and business management experience along with a love for creation and people. He worked for many years in tree planting, concluding this career as a partner in one of Canada’s largest silviculture companies. Most recently, Steven's role at the BC Forest Safety Council included direction of provincial training and certification programs for forestry workers. Non-profit management experience includes stints as General Manager for Vancouver’s Pacific Theatre and Production Manager for the Vancouver International Writers Festival. Steven, along with his wife Deborah and children Hannah and Caleb, is thrilled to be putting down roots with A Rocha.