Environmental Education to Inspire People of All Ages to Develop a Deeper Relationship with the Natural World.
Through curated programs and community events, the Hornby Island Natural History Centre brings together local educators, researchers, and inspired community members to share knowledge, spark curiosity, and deepen our collective commitment to land stewardship and ecological protection.
For over twenty years, the Centre has offered a welcoming space for people of all ages to explore the unique biodiversity of Ja-dai-aich—today known as Hornby Island. What began as a grassroots collection of bones, shells, and stories, lovingly gathered by Joy Jeffries and a small group of volunteers, has grown into a vibrant hub for environmental education and connection.
As a program within the Hornby Island Educational Society, the Natural History Centre is a registered charity and non-profit organization.
Programs
& Events
From engaging talks and guided nature walks to community gatherings and creative workshops, we've curated an inspired selection of vibrant learning opportunities for children, elders, and everyone in between.
For registration details and more information, please visit our Events page.
MEET OUR TEAM
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MEET OUR TEAM 〰️〰️〰️
OUTDOOR EDUCATION COORDINATOR
Chaya Mills has spent the past five years immersed in environmental education, with a focus on helping others connect with the natural beauty and wonder of the island she calls home.
A graduate of the Outward Bound Career Catalyst program, Chaya is trained in outdoor leadership and group facilitation for educational settings. She also holds a Wilderness First Aid certification and has led youth programming at both the Tribune Bay Outdoor Education Centre and the Cedar Coast Art and Ecology Centre.
Whether she’s guiding a forest walk or leading a tide pool exploration, Chaya is passionate about helping others develop a deeper understanding of, and relationship with the natural world.
Chaya Mills
ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAM COORDINATOR
Ayla Hudson is a student at the University of Victoria, currently pursuing a BSc in Anthropology with a focus on Archaeology and a minor in Indigenous Studies. Alongside her academic work, she’s actively involved in youth leadership, environmental stewardship, and community-based restoration projects, including beach clean-ups and invasive species removal.
Ayla’s roots on Hornby Island run deep. Some of her favourite childhood memories include attending HIRRA’s summer youth programs with her twin brother and making clay fossils at the Natural History Centre.
These early experiences helped shape her passion for environmentalism, sustainability, and decolonization, values that continue to guide her studies and community work.
Ayla Hudson
Our Stewards
The heart of the Natural History Centre beats thanks to a dedicated team of stewards. Longtime volunteers, knowledge keepers, and passionate community members who care for our collections, guide our values, and power our visions.
A deep and heartfelt thanks to:
Barb Biagi, Bill Hamilton, Elizabeth Sheehan, Emi Honda, Indika Gnanaranta, Joann Kean, Neil Wilson, Norma Wilson, Ruth Goldsmith, Tina Wai, and our founder, Joy Jeffries.
It’s their quiet work that makes it all possible.
In Memory of Sarat Colling
1983-2025
Sarat Colling was an integral part of the Natural History Centre for over a decade, serving as coordinator, educator, advocate, and friend. Her contributions helped shape the Centre’s vision and its reach—expanding programming, building partnerships, and deepening the Centre’s commitment to justice-oriented, decolonial approaches to environmental education.
Sarat believed in the power of storytelling, collective care, and community-rooted knowledge. Her work reflected that belief at every turn, and her legacy continues to ripple through the Centre’s programs, partnerships, and people.
We are deeply grateful for the time, heart, and wisdom she shared.
Learn more about Sarat’s life and work here.
Want to do More?
We graciously accept one-off or monthly donations to support our programs and inspire generations to protect and connect with the more-than-human world.
