Saskatoon, SK
Meg Schmieder
Meg Schmieder (they/she) is a community connector, facilitator, researcher, and gardener. With a background in international environmental and health policy, outdoor education, and healthcare research, Meg is interested in how planetary and community health intersect.
Queer Compass YXE
Queer Compass YXE (QCYXE) is a queer led, nature based, community rooted initiative on Treaty 6 territory - Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. We host no-cost outdoor programs for queer adults (+19) to connect with peers, themselves, land, and water: hiking, paddling, citizen science, planting, crafting, and more. Queer people deserve to feel safe, seen, and joyful in nature. In a world that often tells us we don't belong, QCYXE is a reminder: we do, and together we can be a force for nature.
https://queercompassyxe.carrd.co/About this Project
Communities Served
My project will involve and/or impact the following communities:
United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
When it comes to community impact projects, the UN has created 17 Sustainable Development Goals. These are the Sustainable Development Goals associated with my project.
How the project works
Queer Compass YXE hosts seasonal outdoor programs for 2SLGBTQIA+ communities in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan including hikes, skill-building workshops, and nature-based gatherings. Established in 2025, the project fosters connection to land, self, and community through queer-centered environmental experiences.
Project Impact
Queer Compass YXE creates safer, affirming spaces for 2SLGBTQIA+ people to connect with nature and each other. By weaving together queer community care and environmental stewardship, QCYXE reduces isolation, fosters belonging, and nurtures a deeper relationship with the land. Participants gain confidence, skills, and connection; building a stronger, more inclusive local environmental movement.
Project Mission
Queer Compass YXE creates safer, welcoming spaces where 2SLGBTQIA+ people can connect with nature, build belonging, and foster resilience. Through shared outdoor experiences and stewardship, we cultivate a deeper relationship with the land and community network that sustains us.
Project Team
Our local volunteer team is made up of outdoor educators, biologists, students, librarians, facilitators, guides, and peers who are passionate about creating spaces for queer people to connect outdoors.
- Meg Schmieder
- Elise Lehmann
- Jodi Hartung
- Em Schmieder
- Olivia Nickle
Optional Photo Gallery
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