About Us

Connection Camp Staff are a diverse group of leaders who are joining forces to create the summer camp we wish we could have attended as teenagers.

“As we let our light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”

— Marianne Williamson

Our Mission

Our mission is to empower teenagers by providing a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment where they can openly discuss, learn about, and understand the dynamics of healthy relationships as it relates to leadership.

Our Theory of Learning

At Connection Camp, we believe that teaching at camp is more like gardening than programming - we sow seeds, remove weeds, and steward growth that occurs. We are all about using various teaching methods: Large groups, small groups, through experiential learning and with gamified concepts! We like to model and embody what we teach.

Our Vision

Through a week-long program, we aspire to foster respect, self-awareness, empathy, and communication skills, equipping our campers with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate their relationships positively and confidently. We are committed to promoting personal growth, understanding, and mutual respect among all participants, reinforcing the importance of kindness, acceptance, and compassion in all interactions.

Meet the Team

  • Julia (she/her)

    Director

    Julia is a dedicated Sex & Relationship Educator for Teens, known as Ask Auntie Julia. With over 25 years of experience working with youth, she brings expertise in creating inclusive, engaging, and supportive camp environments. Having directed and staffed camps across Canada and beyond since 2002, Julia ensures campers feel safe, empowered, and ready to learn while having fun. Expect her to bring high energy, big laughs, and a passion for fostering community and connection.

  • Naryan (he/him)

    Leadership & Community Engagement

    By day, Naryan is a leadership consultant and educator, helping people lead with empathy and confidence. By night, he's a DJ who brings communities together through music and movement. At camp, he fosters connection, confidence, and fun—whether through deep conversations, high-energy activities, or campfire singalongs (though he might need help remembering the lyrics!). Expect Naryan to bring his love of nature, leadership, and dance-floor energy to every camp adventure.

  • Dexter (he/him)

    Youth Mentor & Coach

    Dexter is an entrepreneur, coach, and dedicated mentor who brings energy, inclusivity, and a bit of controlled chaos to camp. With experience coaching youth soccer and leading educational programs in the Kitchener-Waterloo region, he is passionate about creating spaces where everyone feels valued for who they are. At camp, Dexter fosters teamwork, confidence, and plenty of laughter—whether on the field, in a workshop, or around the campfire. Expect him to bring his silly, strong, and supportive spirit to every adventure.

  • Kieran (they/them)

    Educator & Nature Enthusiast

    Kieran is a passionate educator with experience creating engaging programs for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth. With a love for nature—especially bugs!—they bring curiosity, knowledge, and enthusiasm to camp. Whether leading discussions on identity and communication or sharing fun facts about the tiniest creatures in the forest, Kieran helps campers explore, learn, and appreciate the world around them. Expect them to spark curiosity, encourage open conversations, and maybe even get you excited about bugs!

  • Davrielle (they/them)

    Program Facilitator & Creative Mentor

    With eight years of experience designing fun and educational programs, Davrielle brings creativity, energy, and mentorship to camp. They’ve led musical theatre programs, day camps, and life skills workshops, always striving to inspire and empower youth. At camp, Davrielle creates spaces where campers can express themselves, learn new skills, and build confidence—all while having a great time. Expect them to bring engaging activities, enthusiasm, and plenty of creativity to every camp adventure!

  • Amanda (she/her)

    Chef & Creative Mentor

    Amanda is a self-taught cook who has spent years perfecting the art of feeding large groups with delicious, comforting meals. With over seven years of experience in industrial kitchens, she ensures campers are well-fed and happy. Beyond the kitchen, Amanda is an artist passionate about fibre arts, from knitting to weaving. Whether sharing cooking tips, crafting projects, or a love for the outdoors, she brings warmth, creativity, and plenty of good food to camp.