2025 Outstanding Volunteers

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Outstanding Volunteers

Adlai Terreros Rodríguez

Adlai Terreros Rodríguez is an MSc student in Global Health at the University of Alberta, with a background in biomedical psychology. Her academic interests focus on the intersection of climate change and global health.

Why Science Rendezvous?
Because it’s a wonderful opportunity to engage with fellow scientists and communicate our work to a diverse audience of all ages.

How Did You Get Involved?
2025 was my first time participating, and I hope it won’t be the last! I was fortunate to be part of the Energy Explorers group.

Favourite Science Rendezvous Memory:
One of my favourite memories from the event was witnessing how adults actively contributed and motivated children in their learning journey, because I could feel that we were fostering not only curiosity but also strong sense of teamwork and belonging!

Favourite Demonstration or Activity:
Carbon dioxide removal. It was simple, clear, and entertaining. A great way to make a big concept accessible to everyone.
Angelica Aguilar Vallejo

Future Energy Systems at TELUS World of Science – Edmonton

Angelica Aguilar Vallejo is the Experiential Learning Coordinator in the Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering at the University of Alberta. Angelica leads student-focused experiential learning initiatives and plays an active role in STEM outreach.

Why Science Rendezvous?
Because this event is all about sharing science with the community! It is so much fun interacting with kids and seeing their faces full of wonder as they learn and have fun at the same time.

How Did You Get Involved?
Through FES Outreach Leader, Valerie Miller—an amazing leader and kind human.

Favourite Science Rendezvous Memory:
More than a single memory, I loved asking the kids during the separation process demo, “Where is the water?” after it evaporated. Most of the kids said, “It melted!” It was funny getting that response so often—and even funnier trying to explain that the answer is both “yes and no.”

Favourite Demonstration or Activity:
The separation process/mixture separation demo! It’s messy and fun, and it lets you use material properties to separate components one by one.
Corinna Wentzell

College of the North Atlantic, Labrador West Campus

Corinna Wentzell is an Environmental Scientist at Strum Consulting and holds a Bachelor of Science. She works in the environmental field and actively promotes sustainable living in her community, encouraging others to grow their own food through traditional gardening and hydroponics. She also shares her knowledge through educational programs at the local library.

Why Science Rendezvous?
I love Science Rendezvous because I can share my passion for science with children of various ages. I also love how the event takes in many different branches of science and mathematics.

How Did You Get Involved?
I got involved with Science Rendezvous in 2024. I wanted a way to be able to volunteer in an educational capacity.

Favourite Science Rendezvous Memory:
My favourite memory was from this year, in 2025, when a little boy kept coming back to my exhibit. Eventually, he even helped with the demo! It was so meaningful to see that he felt comfortable and confident enough to help share what he learned.

Favourite Demonstration or Activity:
I love the volcano demo. It always draws a great crowd and gets people excited!
Cristiana O’Brien

Science Rendezvous @ University Health Network

Cristiana O’Brien is a graduate researcher in the Jones Lab at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre (UHN) and a PhD student in the Department of Medical Biophysics at the University of Toronto. With a background in leukemia and lipid metabolism, Cristiana investigates leukemia-initiating stem cells and their metabolic profiles. She began her journey at UHN as a Research Technician before pursuing graduate studies, and has been a dedicated science outreach leader ever since.

Cristiana has been an integral part of the UHN STEM Pathways team and a consistent force behind Science Rendezvous programming since 2022. She has contributed to Science Rendezvous not just as a volunteer, but as a leader. In 2025, she continued to lead hands-on demonstrations, guiding visitors through activities like learning how to use micropipettes and explaining how these tools are applied in cancer research.

Cristiana’s outreach goes beyond booths and demos. Over the years, she has given numerous talks, led lab tours, organized workshops, and facilitated classroom visits as part of the broader STEM Pathways programming. Her ability to communicate complex science in clear and engaging ways makes her an outstanding ambassador for research and an inspiring presence at community events.
Ebrahim Mansouri

Queen’s University

Ebrahim Mansouri is a Postdoctoral Fellow in Mechanical and Material Engineering at Queen’s University. His research focuses on computational materials science.

Why Science Rendezvous?
I chose to participate in Science Rendezvous because I’m passionate about making science accessible and engaging for the public, especially younger audiences. It’s a unique opportunity to share exciting scientific ideas in a fun, interactive way and to inspire curiosity in people who might not otherwise be exposed to research.

How Did You Get Involved?
I first got involved with Science Rendezvous on May 10, 2025, when I joined Queen’s University and my research group was preparing an outreach activity for the event.

Favourite Science Rendezvous Memory:
One of my favourite memories was seeing a young kid’s face light up during the cloud chamber demo when they realized they were watching particles from space.

Favourite Demonstration or Activity:
My favourite demonstration was the Cloud Chamber. It clearly shows how energetic cosmic radiation can be visualized using a relatively simple experiment. It’s fascinating to see invisible particles leave visible trails, making abstract physics concepts tangible and engaging for all ages.
Iram Afzal

Iram Afzal is a PhD candidate at the University of Alberta, where her research focuses on mitigating methane emissions from oil sands tailings.

“There are many environmental issues associated with oil sands tailings such as toxicity because of hydrocarbons and greenhouse gases emissions. I am trying to find ways to decrease toxicity while also suppressing GHG emissions”, she shared.

Why Science Rendezvous?
As researchers, we understand the wonders of science, and Science Rendezvous provides a platform to showcase those wonders in an artistic, accessible way.

How Did You Get Involved?
I am an Energy Explorer with Future Energy Systems at the University of Alberta, and this was my third year participating in Science Rendezvous as a Demonstration Lead. I truly enjoy spending time with talented kids who are excited to dive into science.

Favourite Science Rendezvous Memory:
Honestly, I love everything about the Science Rendezvous event. It’s one of the best days of the year, every year!

Favourite Demonstration or Activity:
All were amazing. However, being an environmentalist, I loved an activity where they were demonstrating the importance of trees for our Earth.
Jennifer Low

Queen’s University

Jennifer Low is a Project Manager at Queen’s University. She holds a BScH (Chemistry) from Queen’s University and a MSc (Environmental Science) from the Royal Military College of Canada.

Why Science Rendezvous? I’ve had the privilege of contributing to Science Rendezvous events at three different institutions in two provinces. I’m passionate about making science digestible and accessible to everyone and reshaping perceptions of what it looks like to be a scientist.

How Did You Get Involved? I was first introduced to Science Rendezvous around 2010 at The University of Winnipeg, and I immediately loved the opportunity to engage with the community—especially with young, aspiring scientists.

Favourite Science Rendezvous Memory: It’s hard to pick just one! I really enjoyed the “smoke ring cannon” demonstration with Queen’s University’s Department of Physics, Engineering Physics & Astronomy. Guests were invited to blast wind to knock down cups and create giant smoke rings in the arena — it was a huge hit.

Favourite Demonstration or Activity: I love bringing out the Van de Graaff generator and letting audience members feel the static charge building and watch their hair stand on end. It never gets old!
Julianna Manecka

Dr. Julianna Manecka is a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) at Lasalle Animal Hospital in Sudbury, Ontario.

Why Science Rendezvous?
I chose Science Rendezvous because I love interacting with kids—sharing knowledge and spending time with them. Also, Kingston is a beautiful city, so I love being there too. It’s a perfect opportunity to meet new people, and I always leave feeling amazing and fulfilled.

How Did You Get Involved?
Everything is thanks to my amazing husband. Before we met, he was already involved in this event, and he encouraged me to join him—and it’s stayed that way ever since.

Favourite Science Rendezvous Memory:
I met a very smart young kid who was really interested in my show. It was amazing to watch how much he loved science and how curious and clever he was.

Favourite Demonstration or Activity:
Definitely making bracelet knots for kids. I’m a surgeon, but I still had to learn a new knot—and it was challenging! It wasn’t so easy! Who knows, maybe one day I’ll use it in surgery?
Matthew Labbe

Future Energy Systems at TELUS World of Science – Edmonton

Matthew Labbe holds a PhD in Materials Engineering and is currently a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Alberta.

“Growing up, I started to develop a passion for science and wanted to learn more. With Science Rendezvous, I get the opportunity to share my love for science with budding new science enthusiasts and provide them with an opportunity to learn about science, just like I did when I was younger.”

Why Science Rendezvous?
Science Rendezvous is a great way to spend a day talking to people about something I love — science! Everyone is so willing to learn and engaged with our activities that it makes the time fly by.

How Did You Get Involved?
I first got involved with Science Rendezvous back in 2022, when Future Energy Systems at the University of Alberta was first getting started with Science Rendezvous. I had such a great time in 2022 that I’ve returned time and time again and am now a 4 year veteran of the event. At first, we barely had enough activities to fill the day; now, we are overflowing with science activities to show off!

Favourite Science Rendezvous Memory:
My favourite memory from Science Rendezvous was when a child, who had just created their very own flower using craft supplies to understand photosynthesis and energy, decided to gift their flower to their mom, who was standing right behind them as they crafted the flower. It was heartwarming to see them think of their mom and be so selfless with their things.

Favourite Demonstration or Activity:
One the activities I was a part of involved connecting dinosaurs and flowers to energy today. It branches the topics of photosynthesis, the production of oil and gas, and the connection of all energy on Earth originating from the Sun. Plus, we make flowers with craft supplies that kids can take home. It’s easy to entice children to come and make a flower, and while they’re crafting, you can broach the topics, at whatever level is appropriate for their age. It’s a very flexible activity.
Samford (Sam) Fraass

Science Rendezvous Victoria

Samford (Sam) Fraass is a 6th-grade student at Rockheights Middle School in Victoria, B.C. Known for his energetic spirit and love of prehistoric creatures, Sam has been a beloved part of the University of Victoria’s Science Rendezvous team, especially when he’s dashing around in a dinosaur costume!

“I participate in Science Rendezvous because it’s fun to sprint at my dad in a dinosaur costume and scare him. I also, when I’m out of the costume, explain stuff about dinosaurs and trilobites to visitors.”

How Did You Get Involved?
I got involved in Science Rendezvous in May 2022. My dad asked if I wanted to volunteer, and I said yes! The dino costume became part of the event for me over the last two years.

Favourite Science Rendezvous Memory:
My favourite memory is sprinting up to my dad and scaring him while wearing the dinosaur costume.

Favourite Demonstration or Activity:
My favourite activity is running around in the costume. Why? Because it brings me joy and I like seeing the smiles on kids faces when they see a dinosaur walking around.
Sonika Pariyar

Sonika Pariyar is currently pursuing her MSc in Plant Science at the University of Alberta, where she works as a Graduate Research Assistant. Her research focuses on crop disease management, specifically using seed coating as a strategy to combat root rot in field peas.

Why Science Rendezvous?
Science Rendezvous is very special to me because it was my first volunteering experience in Canada. I loved being part of an event where I could help educate people—especially children—about the fascinating world of science. It was a rewarding opportunity to connect with the community while promoting curiosity and learning.

How Did You Get Involved?
I got involved with Science Rendezvous in 2024 when my lab mates invited me to join. It was a welcoming experience, and I’ve been excited to stay involved ever since.

Favourite Science Rendezvous Memory:
My favorite memory was seeing the excitement on children’s faces as they interacted with simple science experiments. One child in particular asked so many curious questions—it felt incredibly rewarding to help spark their interest in science. That moment reminded me of the power of hands-on learning and why sharing knowledge with the next generation is so meaningful.

Favourite Demonstration or Activity:
I would say solving puzzles is my favorite activity. It’s a fun and interactive way to engage people of all ages, and it encourages critical thinking and problem-solving. Watching participants get excited as they figure things out is always a rewarding experience.
Szymon Manecki

Szymon Manecki is a Research Scientist at SNOLAB, in Sudbury, ON, as well as an Adjunct Professor at Queen’s University. “I’ve spent most of my career underground – studying neutrinos, dark matter particles, and building deep underground detectors.”

Why Science Rendezvous?
I think it offers the best of all worlds—from small hands-on activities to large shows and hundreds (if not thousands) of smaller demonstrations. The open concept of the event in Kingston is a fantastic way for children to experience it all thoroughly and effectively. I’m always amazed at how thousands of visitors can take it all in within just a few hours.

How Did You Get Involved?
I believe I joined in 2017. At the time, I was a postdoctoral fellow in the Physics Department at Queen’s, and it was my supervisor, Dr. Alex Wright, who introduced me to Science Rendezvous. I instantly loved the idea and have stayed involved every year since.

Favourite Science Rendezvous Memory:
It must be the children’s faces whenever they see a demonstration with an unexpected outcome. The surprise and instant interest it sparks in their eyes is unforgettable.

Favourite Demonstration or Activity:
I have to say it was the fire department demonstration in 2024. The brigade had a mock-up house set up outdoors, which they used to show how quickly fire can spread, and how proper experience plays a crucial role in putting it out. Everything about it was impressive and memorable.
Tiago Martins

Queen’s University

Tiago Martins is a student from Kingston, Ontario. He attended Calvin Park Public School as part of the LEAP program and will be starting high school this fall at Regiopolis-Notre Dame Catholic High School. Though just beginning his academic journey, Tiago has already become a passionate advocate for science outreach in his community.

Why Science Rendezvous?
It’s such a great event that brings the community together. It’s free, accessible to all, and always has an awesome turnout. It’s fun to see all the different science activities.

How Did You Get Involved?
I’ve been attending Science Rendezvous since it first began. As a kid, I looked forward to it every year. It made science exciting and fun. As I got older, I wanted to do more than just attend, so I decided to start volunteering.

Favourite Science Rendezvous Memory:
My favorite memory from Science Rendezvous was being able to watch some of the Chemistry Magic Show on my lunch break!

Favourite Demonstration or Activity:
My favourite demonstration had to be Spot, the Boston Dynamics robot dog. Spot was my favourite because it was so interactive and felt incredibly futuristic!
Zeyuan Ji

Zeyuan Ji holds a Bachelor of Applied Science and is currently pursuing a Master of Applied Science. Their graduate research focuses on the behavior of hybrid structures in zirconium (Zr) pressure tubes of CANDU nuclear reactors.

Why Science Rendezvous?
Science Rendezvous is a great opportunity to share what’s happening in our field and to learn about exciting developments in other areas. It is also a good opportunity to introduce our study to the general public.

How Did You Get Involved?
2025 was my first time attending Science Rendezvous. I heard about the opportunity through my lab group and thought it would be a fun event to join.

Favourite Science Rendezvous Memory:
Connecting with people who were curious about or experienced in my field. Knowing that my participation will inspire a future generation of engineering is the most meaningful part.

Favourite Demonstration or Activity:
The cloud chamber! It was amazing to actually see radiation, even after learning about it in theory.