Elena's childhood in a small Canadian town was shaped by her Dad's incredible animal stories from his job at the zoo, sparking a bright curiousity for the world within her.

 

She studied engineering at Queen’s University from 2012-2017. She's a 2015 Cansbridge Fellow, and founder of multiple impact-focused organizations, including One Species (2016-19; dedicated to fighting extinction through apparel, community and media). This work introduced her to wildlife conservation efforts around the world, and ultimately led her to the Pacific Northwest to learn more about endangered orcas.

 

In 2018, Elena created behind-the-scenes content for SeaLegacy and in 2019, worked as a cinematographer, host and editor for Milkywire, capturing stories of wildlife conservationists throughout Africa.

 

Her directorial debut, COEXTINCTION premiered at Jackson Wild 2021, where it won the "Our Human Planet" category. The film has since screened at festivals globally, and received numerous awards including the "Rob Stewart Eco Warrior Award" and "People's Choice." COEXTINCTION is now in distribution.

In 2022, Elena continued to work on natural history and documentary shoots. She has a love for field productions and rugged environments (land and water). She's worked as a cinematographer with RED, Sony and Blackmagic cameras, and as a director, host, writer, producer and experienced editor.

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Elena has shared her passions and work as a filmmaker, adventurer, and conservationist on the news and podcasts, and enjoys doing public speaking. Currently, she's working on her next projects with focuses on wildlife, conservation, outdoor adventure, hosted documentary and dramedy scripted content.