Stories To Make You Feel… Feelings To Make You Act…

What is the Trebek Initiative and who is it for?

The Trebek Initiative funds storytellers, educators, and researchers to ignite action and protect Canada’s natural and cultural heritage.

We fund projects to explore Canada’s diverse ecosystems, celebrate Indigenous cultures, conduct breakthrough wildlife and environmental research, and develop innovative tools to deepen our understanding of Canada’s history and culture.

We support talented individuals who shine a light on Canada's untold stories- and ignite a passion to preserve its landscapes, wildlife, water, and heritage for future generations.

Two iconic organizations.
One shared mission.

The Trebek Initiative unites the legacies of the National Geographic Society and The Royal Canadian Geographical Society to inspire a passion to preserve Canada’s natural and cultural heritage.

With a focus on storytelling, exploration, and education, we’re renewing our commitment to support those who champion the preservation of Canada’s landscapes, wildlife, and culture for generations to come.

Strong Project Growth in 3yrs

The Trebek Initiative has grown significantly since its launch in 2021

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An Established Network of Supporters

Trebek Council’s 62 members are distinguished community leaders from across Canada

2024 TREBEK COUNCIL MEMBERS

  • David and Alice Court (Chair, Trebek Council)

  • Peter Aghar and Wendy Findlay

  • Kim and Farid Ahmad

  • Rob Ashe and Sandra Herrick

  • David Baar and Deidre Brink

  • John Berton and Kelley McKinnon

  • Edward Burtynsky, O.C.

  • David and Clare Cheesewright

  • Andy Chisholm and Laurie Thomson

  • Paul Desmarais, Jr., O.C., O.Q, and Hélène Desmarais, C.M., O.Q.

  • George and Doone Estey

  • Haig Farris, O.C.

  • Anne Fitzgerald and Ian Tuck

  • Pam Isaak and Greg Kiessling

  • Michael Lay and Leagh Turner

  • Jim Leech, C.M., O.Ont., and Deborah Barrett

  • Rona Ambrose

  • Deborah Apps

  • Zita Cobb C.M.

  • Rick Chad

  • Aiden Cyr

  • Ed Doherty, M.D.

  • Sven-Olof and Kristin Lindblad

  • John and Jan MacIntyre

  • Rob and Margaret MacLellan

  • Biff and Sue Matthews

  • Susan McArthur and Jamie Reford

  • Raymond Muzyka, C.M., and Leona De Boer

  • Chris and Stephanie Nelson

  • Steve and Joanne Quinn

  • Serge and Shannon Rancourt

  • Mike Robbins and Cecilia Spihlmann

  • André Rochette and Melanie Fortier

  • Martha Smart

  • Stephen Smith and Diane Blake

  • Frank and Debbi Sobey

  • Wendy Southall

  • Jeff Willner and Stacey Madge

2024 TREBEK CHAMPIONS

  • Brian Gallant, Q.C.

  • Bob Ramsay

  • Michael Schmidt

  • Bernard Voyer, O.C., C.Q.

  • Richard Tessum

  • Nansen Weber

Exclusive Access to Nat Geo Events

Trebek Council members receive exclusive access to Nat Geo events across Canada each month