SOPHIA NOWAK

She / Her

Detroit, MI

My name is Sophia! I am a Michigander, born and raised. I'm currently based out of Ann Arbor after moving around and exploring for a couple of years. I grew up playing mermaids and diving for seashells in Michigan's beautiful lakes, and that has evolved over the years into a love and respect of the outdoors. I enjoy hiking, water sports, and traveling around the US, but I will always come back to play mermaids in the Great Lakes State.

IG: @sophnowak

VALARIE ST. JOHN

She / Her

Detroit, MI

I’m a married to an Air Force pilot, parenting a middle schooler who unironically loves birdwatching. Any outing with me will take longer than expected, as I take my “mushroom expert” certification seriously and like to pause to identify interesting fungi. I also love to learn about the history of our National Parks, and the folk uses of plants and fungi, meaning there’s always a chance for surprise education. I didn’t used to love nature because I couldn’t be “good” at it. Now I know that the outdoors is for everyone, no matter their abilities. My outdoor experiences aren’t filled with adrenaline; they are at my own pace, and I can enjoy our beautiful Earth without worrying about societal pressures. I hope to help more people in our LGBTQ community enjoy themselves outdoors!

IG: @valariestjohn