Bryan Helfenbaum

Janelle's Bio

Janelle Watson has over 15 years of experience from the energy sector across various locations in Alberta, and with exposure to international operations in California, Texas, Colorado, Oman and Holland.

She received an Associate SME designation in Thermal Recovery while at Royal Dutch Shell. Ms. Watson is an entrepreneurial minded leader that is passionate about new business ideas and uses a collaborative, inquisitive approach to solving problems. She spent the past six years launching two startup organisations as Business Development Lead and VP Operations. Notably, she won the Energy New Ventures pitch competition in 2019 worth $125,000 and audience choice award.

Ms. Watson has extensive experience in technical and business operational roles while in energy, tech and the insurance sectors. She has also pursued certifications in data science and analytics, machine learning, and cybersecurity to bolster her knowledge in leading edge technologies to enAlbertale efficient business operations. While new to the renewable energy sector, she has worked with LV and MV power systems, electrical and instrumentation specialists for wellsite and facilities requirements throughout her career and is a strong advocate for sustainability practices.

BBA Engineering

Aaron's Bio

A Grade 12 student currently attending Westmount Charter Mid-High School, Aaron is very excited to lead the MFC Games again this year. Ever since he and his team won two similar challenges in 2020, Aaron has been interested in this innovative new technology. Through the MFC Games, Aaron has been able to improve his communication skills and network with many prominent figures in the environmental sustainability industry.

MFC Games

Gillian's Bio

With a diverse background as a leader in the energy industry, consulting firms, and non-profit organizations, Gillian is a dynamic force known for forging connections, fostering collaboration, and driving social change.

Gillian is the Director, People and Community at Enhance Energy where she leads Indigenous Engagement, Community Engagement, Community Investment, and HR and is dedicated to shaping a future where CCUS solutions integrate seamlessly with social equity, effecting positive impact for people and communities.

Holder of an MBA, along with a certificate of Social Impact, from Queens University and a CPHR designation, Gillian serves on the Board of the Calgary Public Library, the Calgary Library Foundation, and Ask Her YYC. She is a Fellow with the Energy Futures Lab and coaches emerging leaders to have a seat at the boardroom table through Fora’s Rise on Boards program.

Gillian is a recipient of the Young Women in Energy Award and the Daily Oil Bulletin Rising Star Award, for her focus on social impact in energy. Through all of this, she balances her role as a mom of two young children, spouse of a Calgary Firefighter, is self-appointed foodie, avid world traveller and loves a hot cup of matcha.

Enhance Energy

Dr.James's Bio

Dr. James Makokis and Anthony Johnson are renowned as the trailblazing Two-Spirit team on the Amazing Race Canada. Their compelling victory in Season 7 brought pivotal gender, sexuality, and Indigenous issues to the forefront of national consciousness, reshaping societal perceptions. Distinguished in their individual capacities, they bring rich, diverse experiences and a profound depth of expertise to their advocacy efforts, championing the rights of First Nation and LGBTQ2S+ communities.

Residing in Treaty 6 Territory, Edmonton, Anthony Johnson is dedicated to the resurgence of Traditional Cree Medicine practices in Kehewin Cree Nation. Together, they are a formidable force, advocating for systemic change and promoting equity and inclusivity. Their journey transcends the Amazing Race; it’s a continual stride towards societal transformation, galvanizing communities, and allies alike to dismantle prejudices and foster a more inclusive, empathetic world. Their narrative is not just one of triumph but a compelling call to action for unity, understanding, and relentless pursuit of justice.