Rae Failing

As an associate at Compass, Rae is involved in a range of watershed planning, Indigenous governance, multistakeholder engagement and adaptive management processes for water, forests and fisheries. She has a degree in political science and a background in public policy and brings a sharp analytical lens to her work as well as a natural perceptiveness with respect to social, interpersonal and power dynamics.

With a background in circus arts, Rae’s approach to her work is guided by her passion for bringing creativity and play into collective processes. Rae believes in the power of challenging conversations and listening to learn. She leads with full-body listening skills and a commitment to creating inclusive and empowering spaces.

First job
Coaching gymnastics and circus arts to people ages 3-70

What truly blows your mind, why?
A mountain’s shadow at sunrise and the smell of the rain in the pacific northwest. They make you feel both big and small at once.

Who was your favourite teacher and why?
My Circus coach Natalie Hébert—she taught me to do rather than try, to trust the work you’ve done, and to let go of what you can’t control (and maybe some of what you can).

What do you do when unplugged from work?
I climb rocks, ice, mountains and trees, run in the forest, write poetry and eat ice cream.