Zeinab Salehiankia

Zeinab was born and raised in Tehran, Iran, where her love for nature began during weekends spent in villages outside the city, climbing fruit trees, playing outdoors, and forming a deep connection with the land. That early curiosity led her to study Biology and pursue a lifelong path in environmental protection.

Zeinab later lived in Naples, Italy, exploring southern coastlines and learning from different cultures and landscapes. She went on to earn a Master’s degree in Environmental Science in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, where her work focused on GIS mapping and nature-based solutions to address climate change. Living on the eastern edge of North America deepened her appreciation for rugged ecosystems and community-led environmental action. During this time, she learned from Indigenous cultures, including the Mi’kmaq people, and contributed to leading Canadian environmental non-profits, strengthening community engagement and supporting just transitions to clean energy.

Now based in Vancouver, BC, Zeinab is the Vancouver Canvass Director with the AFA. A people-person at heart, she believes strong, grassroots movements are essential to protecting old-growth forests and safeguarding our shared natural heritage.

In her free time, she enjoys exploring forests, hiking local trails, and listening to people’s stories.