Our Team
A group of dedicated lawyers, professionals, law students, and community members
Benjamin Isitt– Managing Director
Ben is a lawyer, author, and grassroots community advocate based in Lekwungen territory (Victoria, BC). He serves in a pro bono capacity as Managing Director and Director of Legal Services at the Red Cedar Advocacy Centre. In his spare time, Ben enjoys the outdoors, cooking, and low-carbon travel.
Jayne Johnson – Caseworker Coordinator
Jayne is a 3L JD student at the University of Victoria. She completed her undergraduate degree in Biology and Environmental Studies, which inspired her interest in public interest environmental law. Jayne continues to expand her knowledge of environmental issues by engaging in Indigenous led educational opportunities, such as the WSANEC field school. She was previously a co-president of the UVic Environmental Law Club and is an active board member of the Environmental Law Centre Society. Outside of school, Jayne enjoys yoga, running, hiking, and skiing.
Kiana Froese– Communications/ Finance
Coordinator A third year law student at UVic dedicated to pursuing public interest law. She holds executive roles in the Environmental Law Club and serves on the Board of Directors for the Environmental Law Centre, actively engaging with environmental law and potential reform. Prior to starting school, she collaborated with environmental conservation non-profits on grassroots initiatives. Beyond her legal studies, she finds joy in gardening, surfing, knitting, and skiing.
Antonia Mendel – Case Manager/ Research Coordinator
Antonia supports clients at Red Cedar Advocacy Centre through research, conducting client interviews, affidavit drafting, and case preparation. She holds a BA in Environmental Studies and Political Science from UVic and has significant experience in grassroots organizing, Indigenous and international solidarity work, and trauma-informed facilitation. She is working towards becoming a Chartered Mediator. In her free time, Antonia enjoys sailing, community projects, and live music.
Teleena Whitwick – Caseworker
A JD Candidate at UVic Law, their studies focus on public interest environmental law. They have held executive positions in UVic’s Environmental Law Club, LGBTQIA+ Club OUTLaws, and act as a Student Board Member for the Environmental Law Centre. They are committed to continued work with community groups to push for legal reform and change. Outside of their studies they enjoy painting, nature walks, and badminton.
Red Cedar Advocacy Centre 