Introducing Our New Executive Director
Fiona Veikkanen who formerly trained in fine art, before continuing on to co-own the Polo Restaurant, is now leaning into her passion for sustainability by taking the reins of the Canberra Environment Centre.
Ms Veikkanen is a long-term sustainability advocate and supplies her family with veggies from her home garden. She is super passionate about the role of community, community gardens, growing local food and composting.
At the Polo restaurant in Turner, she worked with the ACT Smart Business Program to create a training program for staff to reduce their waste, resulting in around 180 kgs of organic waste being composted every week.
Ms Mia Swainson, President of the Environment Centre said, “Following a year of change, Fiona will bring the stability and creativity we need for our next chapter.”
“Her passion for sharing her experiences with the Canberra community and local businesses made her the perfect person for this role.
Ms Veikkanen brings complementary experience in art, education and business management to the centre, which she looks forward to using to creatively engage the Canberra community.
As one of the hosts on the local sustainability podcast Local Environment Heroes, Ms Veikkanen is already well known in the local community. She looks forward to extending the centre's reach over the next few years.
“We have great opportunities in Canberra to make small lifestyle changes to create a better planet.
“It doesn’t matter if you live on a big block with the opportunity to grow your own food or a two-bedroom apartment in Harrison where you can recycle right.
“It is the small everyday steps that matter.”
Ms Swainson said, “Our outgoing Executive Director Holly Trueman successfully navigated the Canberra Environment Centre’s move from the ANU to Gungaderra Homestead, a big transition for staff and our community. The Canberra Environment Centre plays such an important role in our city. We are thrilled to be opening a new chapter with Fiona leading the way.”
