Chair (1 Position)

Walter Meyer zu Erpen

Sonia Furstenau’s leadership of the BC Greens and campaign in Victoria-Beacon Hill has inspired me to re-engage with Green Party governance.

Of German and British settler heritage, I was born and raised in Nanaimo and completed my education at UBC, earning a BA in History and French (1982) and a Master of Archival Studies (1985).

With 40 years of experience working first as a BC public servant and later as a consultant to government, I bring management expertise, organizational and interpersonal skills, and a deep knowledge of government. As I wind down my small business, I am ready to commit the time and energy the position of Party Chair requires.

In collaboration with Provincial Council members, our Executive Director, and party staff, I aim to:

• Increase the party’s annual revenue through fundraising;
• Build our capacity to engage volunteers and support campaigns, including between elections (e.g., around ProRep);
• Identify candidates to ensure every British Columbian has the opportunity to vote Green;
• Promote an inclusive culture that welcomes diversity and supports reconciliation.

My Green Party involvement dates back to 1999 when I ran for Victoria City Council, placing tenth, just 180 votes short of a council seat. Since then, I have remained actively involved:

• May 2001 – BC Greens candidate in Victoria-Beacon Hill, placing third with 21.7% of the vote, one of the highest Green vote counts provincially in an election where the party secured over 12% of the popular vote.
• 2002 – Coordinated the ProRep campaign on southern Vancouver Island.
• 2002-2005 – Member of the Victoria-Beacon Hill Electoral District Association.
• 2002-2006 – Served on the Provincial Council under Leader Adriane Carr, responsible for membership renewal and fundraising. Also held roles as Organizing Chair and 2005 Provincial Campaign Manager.
• 2007-2009 – Elected Party Chair in support of Jane Sterk’s leadership candidacy and served as 2009 Provincial Campaign Co-Manager.
• 2000-2024 – A dedicated volunteer on nearly all Victoria provincial and federal Green campaigns.

I am eager to bring my experience, dedication, and vision to the role of Party Chair to strengthen and grow the BC Green Party.

Secretary (1 Position)

Marie Ward 

With over 20 years of experience in administration, customer service, logistics, volunteer coordination, and event planning, I have provided executive administrative services to high-level leaders, including presidents, vice presidents, executive directors, federal court judges, immigration members, and deputy ministers across government, non-profit, and private sectors.

I have worked for well-known organizations such as KPMG, Bank of Montreal, Deloitte, Royal Bank of Canada, and Oxford Properties, where I managed a portfolio of Class-A buildings in downtown Toronto. My roles have included minute-taking, agenda preparation, board package finalization, HR coordination, and bookkeeping.

For two years, I worked as a market researcher, collecting data on political and environmental topics while also contributing to community outreach programs. I was a workshop presenter and volunteer coordinator for Ovarian Cancer Canada’s Walk of Hope fundraiser.

My event coordination and logistical expertise include executive searches, science and technology conferences, summer festivals, office moves, and international shipments. As a Deputy Returning Officer, I verified voter information, counted ballots, and participated in electoral reform advocacy efforts.

Additionally, I have been deeply involved in political campaigns at both provincial and federal levels, gaining skills through electoral workshops covering budgeting, media consistency, financial audits, and messaging strategies. As a digital human rights activist with Amnesty International and the Canadian Journalists for Free Expression (CJFE), I have earned certifications in cybersecurity, data privacy, and social engineering.

I live in the Esquimalt electoral district in Victoria and enjoy reading, cooking, painting, boxing, and martial arts. I am committed to bringing my administrative expertise and dedication to the role of Secretary to support the BC Green Party’s mission and governance.

Adam Bremner-Akins

Our party is at a pivotal moment, and we need continued leadership that is energetic, focused, and organized. My name is Adam Bremner-Akins, and I’m seeking re-election as Secretary so that I can continue to be a part of building our pathway to government.

Since I began volunteering with my local Riding Association and the BC Greens Youth Council in 2020, I have had the pleasure of being part of our extraordinary growth, participating in Green events, and getting to know Greens from across BC. I served as the Youth Representative on Provincial Council from 2021 to 2024 and partway through last year I became Secretary, where I have continued to work within the party to facilitate our future successes. I have run twice as a BC Green MLA candidate (2020, 2024), and was honored to serve as the host for the 2024 BC Greens election night event in Victoria. I have consistently advocated for our core principles and emphasized commitment to people and communities.

I am currently a full-time student in my fourth year at Simon Fraser University where I am majoring in Political Science and minoring in Resource and Environmental Management (focusing on Urban Planning). Outside of school, I work as a server, where I am able to connect with people and hear about their lives. In my limited free time, I keep a small garden on our rural property and enjoy spending time with my friends and family.

It has been an honor to be a part of the BC Greens over these past five years. I have been so lucky to meet many like-minded people and to have the opportunity to advocate for issues that I care about, as well as to fight for what we, as Greens, know are critical issues.

I am asking for your support in this election so that I may continue to serve as Secretary of the BC Green Party.

Treasurer (1 Position)

Keith Poore

I acknowledge that I am living, working, studying, and recreating in the territory of the Semiahmoo peoples.

I am seeking re-election as Treasurer of the BC Green Party, a position I have held for the past two years. During my tenure, I have focused on ensuring that the Party is positioned to fund a strong election campaign and ensuring that processes are built to safeguard donors’ contributions.

I am a graduate of Camosun College with a Post-Degree Diploma in Accounting. I have also obtained a BSc in Medical Physics and an MSc in Biophysics.

My professional background includes over five years of accounting experience. I am also a CPA candidate, demonstrating my commitment to financial expertise. This experience has been invaluable in managing the BCGP’s finances responsibly.

As Treasurer, I have been working on enhancing the BCGP’s internal controls, ensuring that our financial processes are robust and secure. I have also developed comprehensive guidelines for our investments, maximizing returns while adhering to ethical and sustainable principles. I hope to build upon the internal control work and improve the timing of financial reporting.

I am passionate about the BC Green Party’s vision and the six core principles. I believe that my financial expertise, combined with my commitment to transparency and accountability, makes me the ideal candidate to continue serving as Treasurer. I am confident that I can help the party achieve its financial goals, leading us into a stronger position for the next general election.

Ombudsperson (1 Position)

Archie Kaario

I was born in Vancouver on July 30, 1948, and have primarily resided in North Vancouver since 1953. I am the second of four boys in a family engaged in the commercial fishing industry. I completed Grade 12 at North Vancouver Senior Secondary in 1967 before enrolling at Simon Fraser University (SFU), where I earned a degree in geography in 1972. I later obtained a Professional Development Program (PDP) certificate in 1975 and spent a year teaching.

From 1967 to 1979, my early career included a variety of roles, such as operating a commercial fishing boat for three years, working at Little Mountain Neighbourhood House, West Coast Environmental Law, and Strathcona Park Lodge. I also worked at a ski school in Italy and served as an information officer with the Solar Energy Society of Canada.

In 1979, I began law school at the University of British Columbia, graduating in 1983 and completing my articles in 1984. Since then, I have practiced law for over 40 years as a self-employed lawyer, specializing in family, personal injury, and criminal law. Although my original passion was environmental law, I prioritized supporting my family, including my two sons, born in 1982 and 1987.

I married Barbara in 1978, who recently completed her PhD at SFU in the Department of Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies. My eldest son lives in Paris, where he teaches at universities and holds a PhD from the Sorbonne. My youngest son earned a criminology degree from SFU and, although always present in our hearts, passed away in 2011 after a courageous battle with childhood cancer.

For over 25 years, I have been interested in the Green Party, though my professional commitments kept me from active involvement. Now, in semi-retirement, I have recently run as a Green Party candidate in both federal and provincial elections.

Throughout my career, I have spent over 40 years resolving conflicts between people. While my legal work has often been in adversarial settings, it has always required a deep understanding of both sides of a dispute. I look forward to serving as Ombudsperson for the Provincial Green Party, where I am confident that my training and experience will be valuable in addressing and resolving concerns as they arise.

Regional Councillor, Okanagan-Kootenays (1 Position)

Bradley Bartsch

Bradley Bartsch, who is running for MLA in Penticton-Summerland, is passionate about unlocking the region’s potential for environmental and economic prosperity. His focus on community-driven development aligns with the BC Greens’ vision for a sustainable future.

Bradley and his wife of 40 years moved to Penticton in August 2021, and he has loved becoming a part of this South Okanagan community.

His experience spans some of Canada’s leading for-profit and non-profit organizations. He has worked across economic sectors including education, social services, international development, arts & culture, and athletics. His previous roles include positions at Ronald McDonald House BC/Yukon, Co:Here Housing Society (Vancouver, BC), World Vision Canada (Toronto, ON), Simon Fraser University (Burnaby, BC), RBC Financial Group, and the Abbotsford Heat Hockey Club (Abbotsford, BC).

Raised on the scenic west coast of Canada, Bradley graduated from Simon Fraser University with a BA in Political Science and Business Administration. A lifelong multi-sport athlete, he enjoys the outdoors and remains engaged in physical activities.

In 2017, Bradley faced a major life change when he suffered a significant stroke. His journey to recovery reinforced his commitment to serving his community and advocating for improved health and well-being initiatives.

Bradley is eager to bring his leadership experience, strategic vision, and commitment to sustainability to the BC Green Party, working toward a stronger and more resilient future for British Columbia.

Regional Councillor, North (1 Position)

Douglas Gook

I would like to share my experience as a longtime GPBC member, an earlier era GPBC Provincial Council member, a former provincial and federal GP candidate in northern BC ridings, and a strong networker with current and potential GPBC supporters throughout BC.

I would like to contribute my skills in networking, activism, communications, strategy development, and event production to this exciting point in Green Party ‘OurStory’.

Regional Councillor, Fraser Valley/Surrey (1 Position)

Melissa Snazell

My name is Melissa Snazell. I work as a pharmacy technician, and I am a mother of an 18-year-old son. I ran as a candidate in the last provincial election for the BC Green Party and will be running in the upcoming federal election for the Green Party of Canada.

I am working toward a bachelor’s degree in policy and geography. I have lived in the Fraser Valley for 25 years and have been in Aldergrove for the past 12 years. I am pursuing my bachelor’s degree because I want to put myself in a position to facilitate change. I am interested in geography, the environment, and sustainability, and I hope to learn how policy can help us make the changes necessary to protect our future on this planet.

I am new to public service since I spent many years as a single parent and worked multiple jobs. However, I am determined to be involved now in as many ways as possible. I believe strongly in the message and platform of the BC Green Party and look forward to many years of fighting to get more representation into the legislature.

Qiqi Li

I immigrated to Canada close to 20 years ago and have lived all the years since then in Surrey. The person I am today is shaped by the communities and the cultures I am surrounded by, and I hold a deep affection for the city and the people here, regardless of how much ribbing my friends give me about Surrey. Although I have not been politically active until recently, I have always been connected to the communities around me.

I currently work in operations management, and that work takes me across Delta, Surrey, and Langley, where I often interact with the most vulnerable members of the population in these areas. I witness firsthand the consequences of weak policy and inaction.

I also volunteer as an outreach coordinator for the Surrey branch of the BC SPCA. My role includes reaching out to various organizations in the community, hosting fundraising events, and promoting programs that serve local residents in Surrey. I like to focus on the messaging that animal welfare is connected to our own well-being – the best way we take care of animals is by taking care of each other.

In my spare time, I enjoy reading, practicing Chinese calligraphy, hiking, and skiing.

Regional Councillor, Vancouver (1 Position)

Devyani Singh

I am Dr. Devyani Singh, a climate scientist, dedicated advocate for evidence-based policy, and a committed member of the BC Greens. Having previously served on the Provincial Council (2021-2022), I am once again asking for your support to represent you. As a grassroots party, ensuring your voices are heard is my priority, and I would be honored to have your vote.

With a Ph.D. in Energy and Climate Policy, an M.B.A. in Finance, and an M.Sc. in Environmental Science, my expertise spans critical areas such as energy transitions, air quality, carbon finance, forest sustainability, and natural resource economics. My research has taken me across sectors—industry, academia, government, Indigenous communities, and non-profits—and across countries including Canada, the U.S., and India. I have led research design, execution, and communication through peer-reviewed papers, reports, and public engagement.

Having previously run as a Green candidate at the provincial (2020, 2024), federal (2021), and municipal (2022) levels, I am stepping back from electoral campaigns to focus on strengthening the BC Greens—both internally as a party and externally by building a strong, engaged support base.

I am passionate about climate action, transparency in governance, and community-driven decision-making. With your support, I will work to ensure that the BC Greens remain a powerful voice for sustainability and progressive policies in British Columbia. I look forward to working together to build a greener, fairer future.

Vote for science. Vote for action. Vote for a stronger BC Greens.

Councillor-at-Large (2 Positions)

Tamás Revóczi

Tamás Revóczi, the son of Hungarian political refugees, embodies resilience and adaptability, qualities that define British Columbia’s diverse communities. His journey—from a gifted student and musician in Burnaby to decades of teaching language, technology, and design both locally and abroad—has shaped his role as a community leader on Sea Island in Richmond Bridgeport.

As a cancer survivor and advocate for physical and mental health, Tamás is committed to accessible healthcare and robust support systems. A former BC Provincial Sabre Fencing Team member and a competitive Masters running athlete with BC Athletics, he recognizes the importance of sports in fostering lifelong well-being. He is an active member of several Lower Mainland running clubs and a dedicated volunteer, podcaster, and promoter for the Moustache Miler, a Movember event supporting men’s health.

Tamás has deep roots in Burkeville, Sea Island, a unique community adjacent to Vancouver International Airport. In the 2024 provincial election, he became the first-ever Sea Island resident to run as an MLA candidate for the riding since Arthur Laing. As President of the Sea Island Community Association, he has demonstrated leadership in addressing local issues and driving positive change.

His campaign for the BC Green Party has focused on sustainable development, improved public transportation, and policies that support families and small businesses. His commitment to environmental stewardship and social justice aligns closely with Green Party values.

If elected to Provincial Council, Tamás will bring his passion for community engagement and consensus-building to the role, advocating for a healthier, greener, and more inclusive BC Green Party. His leadership will reflect the diverse needs of British Columbians while preserving and evolving Sonia Furstenau’s legacy toward a pragmatic and sustainable future.

Breony Ayers

I am a dedicated advocate for equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility, bringing over 20 years of experience in inclusive education, human rights, and community engagement. My career is driven by a commitment to fostering sustainable, community-driven solutions that enhance social and environmental well-being. With extensive experience in policy development, stakeholder collaboration, and organizational leadership, I am passionate about creating equitable systems that empower individuals and communities.

I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Justice Studies from Royal Roads University and have served as the equity, diversity, and inclusion liaison on the Royal Roads Student Association Board. In this role, I contributed to strategic planning, governance, and initiatives aimed at improving equity, accessibility, and student success in higher education. My work has also included supporting marginalized populations, advocating for inclusive policy reforms, and leading capacity-building initiatives in post-secondary and nonprofit sectors.

I have led initiatives to improve transitions from K-12 to post-secondary education, ensuring that students receive the support they need to succeed. Additionally, I have championed accessibility in post-secondary institutions, advocating for streamlined, equitable support services for students with disabilities.

Beyond education, I have been deeply involved in community programs that build confidence and life skills, ensuring that individuals from all backgrounds have opportunities for personal and professional growth. My leadership in capacity-building projects has helped organizations refine their inclusivity strategies, ensuring that equity remains at the heart of their work.

As a candidate for Councillor at Large with the BC Green Party, I am eager to bring my expertise and passion for social justice, environmental sustainability, and inclusive governance to public office. I believe in the power of grassroots engagement, community collaboration, and evidence-based policy-making to drive meaningful change. My vision is to create resilient, inclusive communities where every individual has the opportunity to thrive, and I am committed to working alongside residents to build a greener, more just future for British Columbia.

Severn Nelson

“Severn has led a dedicated and passionate career in the nonprofit housing sector and brings 15 years of experience working in homelessness, supportive housing, and community housing. Community focused, Severn has led projects in food security, accessibility, women’s equity, youth homelessness, mental health, and harm reduction while continually in the pursuit of housing for all. She has extensive experience in community building and grassroots organizing to achieve common goals working toward anti poverty based goals as well as equity and inclusion.Severn’s educational background is in Nonprofit Management and Public Administration as well as having a diploma in Community Service.

Living and working in Vernon, British Columbia she enjoys the mountains, lakes, and forests nearby. She cherishes that, culturally, this value is one shared by many of the constituents of The Okanagan Kootenays who work the land as much as they play on it. She is excited about the possibility of bring her years of experience in community service, as well as her education in governance, and value for a healthy thriving planet to the Green Party of BC; to be at the forefront of working with community leaders to achieve collaborative and innovative systemic solutions for the climate emergency, as well as the housing and affordability crises, as the the Representative for the Okanagan & Kootenay region. “

Lara McLachlan

Hello, my name is Lara McLachlan. I currently live in Victoria Beacon Hill, on the traditional and unceded lands of the Lekwungen peoples.

I am a passionate healthcare access and equity advocate with 20 years experience in community development and health services planning and improvement. I have worked in all parts of our health system to identify issues, plan services and evaluate quality, including in health authorities, community health centres, primary care and grassroots communities. I moved to BC in 2020 to work on Primary Care Networks. I was really impressed by the Party’s positions and outreach efforts in the last election on healthcare, the toxic drug crisis, NDAs, and other core human rights issues and am seeking an opportunity to become actively involved in strategy.

I hold a Master’s of Education in Comparative International Education from University of Toronto and spent the first decade of my career in international development, working primarily in program development reporting and evaluation in education, community health and donor reporting. I returned to Canada when I was diagnosed with cancer in my early 30s. After treatment, became involved in healthcare as an engaged patient.

I am currently a staff at VIHA, a Board Member of AVI and recently started my own initiative, the Neurodiversity Change Network, to improve health and employment outcomes for individuals with mental health disabilities. In my free time, I am a dedicated cyclist, proud of reaching 10,000km distance and 100,000 metres for the last 5 years. I hope to keep this up as long as I can!

I believe it is an important time in history to become involved in the Green Party, and would be committed to working together to advance the Green’s platform.