
Facts, science, and data are important, but they don't change people's minds or behaviours to create a more just, biodiverse, and healthy world.
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This is where the power of storytelling comes in.​
Hi - I'm Carmen Koessler (née Smith)
Storyteller | Communications Strategist | Science Communicator
​I am a Canadian science communicator and communications strategist with 10+ years of experience delivering creative communications and public engagement programs in Canada and Australia.
I am deeply committed to recognizing and using my privilege as a straight, white settler to ally with justice-seeking groups through my work effectively. I love working with purpose-driven organizations to help make the world a more just, kind, biodiverse, and sustainable place.
I am a strategic problem solver and big-picture thinker with a proven ability to connect people and communities to campaigns, projects, and stories.
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Interested in unlocking the power of your story?

Certifications, Training &
Technical Skills
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Video Storytelling Certificate – UC Berkeley Advanced Media Institute (2022)
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Data Visualization for Storytelling Certificate – UC Berkeley Advanced Media Institute (2021)
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VisualStory - Developing Persuasive Presentations - Duarte (2018)
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Media & Communications Master Class – Science in Public (2018)
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Business Development Training - Richard Woodward (2016)
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Coaching & Counselling Training - Warner Consulting Auz Pty (2015)
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Conservation Conflict Transformation Training – Conservation for Peace (2013)
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Alliance Française - Elementary French (2020 - 2021)
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Pleasure Cruise Operating Card - Transport Canada (2013)
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SEACR Marine Naturalist Course (2012)
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PADI Open Water Diver Certification (2006)
Education
Awards & Recognition
3rd Place in Canada - TD Canada Go Green Scholarship for short video featuring aquaponics research.
Bachelor of Science - Major in Biology, Minor in Geography.
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University of Victoria
Victoria BC Canada - (2008 - 2013)
Graduated with Distinction (top 20% of my class)
Directed Resarch
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Coastal gray wolf (Canis lupus) diet on Calvert Island and the Goose Islands in BC - University of Victoria (2013)
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Chronic oil pollution: the biological impacts and unforeseen risk associated with introducing supertanker traffic to BC coastal waters - University of Victoria (2013)
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Independent Research on Aquaponics - University of Victoria (2011)