From Sri Lanka to Fredericton: Naveenan Manoharan’s MEM journey
Author: Olusegun Gbenga Ogunseye
Posted on Jul 25, 2025
Category: Faculty of Forestry and Env Mgt
From the coasts of Sri Lanka to the forests of New Brunswick, Naveenan Manoharan is turning his passion for the planet into real-world impact through UNB’s Master of Environmental Management (MEM) program.
With a background in marine and coastal development, Naveenan was drawn to MEM’s unique mix of academic depth, field-based learning, and a strong commitment to environmental and social change.
“I always wanted to pursue a master’s in environmental sciences to deepen my understanding of our surroundings. UNB stood out for its affordability and its faculty’s strong reputation.”
Why the MEM program at UNB?
Naveenan was seeking a program that offered both rigorous learning and practical experience. “I was looking for a master’s program that offered learning plus work experience,” he says. “And MEM delivered just that.”
Through interdisciplinary courses and field-oriented learning, the program reshaped his understanding of environmental management, expanding his lens to include social justice, Indigenous knowledge and community engagement.
Learning that sticks
Courses like Geographic Information System with Professor Jae Ogilvie and Environmental Impact Assessment with Professor Janet Blackadar stood out.
“The hands-on projects and simulations helped me build real-world skills,” Naveenan shares. These courses, combined with group work and field exposure, reshaped his perspective on environmental management, integrating social justice, Indigenous knowledge and community engagement.
Internship in action: Conservation Council of New Brunswick (CCNB)
Now interning with the Conservation CCNB, Naveenan spends his days creating outreach materials, designing infographics and running interactive education programs. “Every day is a mix of creativity, learning and purposeful work,” he says.
He is also learning the ropes of Canadian workplace culture, developing technical and soft skills, and using tools like Google Workspace, Canva and social media to boost environmental awareness.
Learning to navigate the Canadian workplace, from digital tools like Google Workspace and Canva to understanding cultural nuances, was a challenge at first. “I asked for feedback regularly,” he reflects. “It helped me improve and ensure my outreach was clear and inclusive.”
Rewards, reflections and looking ahead
The most rewarding part of Naveenan’s experience? Recognizing the impact of environmental communication, particularly in newcomer communities as they explore Canadian ecosystems for the first time.
“Designing programs that help people connect with nature has been incredibly fulfilling.” His future goals include bridging science, policy, and public engagement through work in climate action, environmental education or conservation.
Advice for future MEM students
Naveenan recommends the MEM program to anyone passionate about environmental management: “The internship component gives you a real taste of the Canadian work environment, even before you graduate.”
He emphasizes the importance of staying organized, using tools like calendars and to-do lists and maintaining a healthy study-life balance.
Life in Fredericton and the UNB community
Naveenan enjoys the calm, natural beauty of Fredericton and the diverse, inclusive environment at UNB. “The surroundings are refreshing, and the UNB community makes international students feel welcomed and included.”
Ready to shape a sustainable future?
Whether your interests lie in climate policy, conservation, or environmental education, UNB’s MEM program offers the tools, community and experience to help you lead meaningful change.
Join a new generation of environmental leaders, just like Naveenan.
Learn more about UNB's Master of Environmental Management (MEM) program.