Management
Jason Courneyea
Executive Director
Jason joined MineralsEd in August of 2019, and in January of 2020 he became Executive Director. Raised in Peterborough, Ontario, Jason brings fourteen years of experience in mineral exploration, working on projects ranging from grassroots exploration to active mine sites in many parts of Canada. He provides geology instruction at MineralsEd's teacher workshops and is involved in all other aspects of MineralsEd program development and delivery. His long-time affiliation with industry and passion for education provides a strong background for understanding both the world of education and the BC broad-based mining community.
Nayanika Sukumar
Program Manager
Nayanika rejoined the MineralsEd team in January 2026. Originally from Shanghai, China, Nayanika moved to Vancouver in 2015 to pursue a degree in Geography from the University of British Columbia. It was during her time at UBC that she discovered her passion for environmental education. Throughout her career, Nayanika has explored various roles in the education and environmental monitoring sectors and is excited to bring her background to MineralsEd. Outside of work, you can find her rolling out fresh pasta and bread dough.
Lee Daphne Banogon
Program Coordinator
Daphne joined the MineralsEd team in December 2024. Originally from Ormoc City and raised in Dumaguete City, Philippines, she spent her childhood between the two cities before living in Abu Dhabi and relocating to Vancouver in 2014. She holds a Bachelor of Environment from Simon Fraser University, majoring in Resource and Environmental Management, along with a certificate in Sustainable Community Development. Passionate about natural resources, sustainable energy, and education, Daphne has contributed to various environmental projects focused on climate equity and extreme weather. She is also a rower, a passion that started in her university days, outside of work, you will catch her at Burnaby Lake making waves.