Despite a conventional upbringing, fed a diet of TV and fast food Javan K. Bernakevitch developed a passion of the outdoors and a fierce curiosity. Working in environmental education for the Government of Alberta he saw a large disconnect with holding ever more firmly to the "natural" environment that created obstacles for ecological succession. At the top of his field managing an environmental education company in Edmonton, AB he realized his work was reactive versus proactive. The students he was working with hadn’t bridged their “nature deficit disorder” any more then the time they spent away from their smart phones.

With this realization in mind he moved to Vancouver Island to learn about natural building to create change where we live. After graduating from his Permaculture Designer Certificate he found permaculture, taking the change even deeper to how we live.

Five years later, with the creation of Permaculture BC, dozens of projects and teaching engagements Javan brings his experience and tutelage under Geoff Lawton, Sepp Holzer, Jude Hobbs, Richard Walker, Michael Nickels and Brandon Bauer to the forefront creating his impactful unique style of design and education. From urban Hugelkultur and dog parks enhanced with food forests to high density semi-urban developments Javan shows his versatility and depth in designing and installation.

A designer, group facilitator and community organizer (he originated and co-founded the Southern Vancouver Island Permablitz Network) Javan brings his passion, knowledge and natural teaching style to inspire and give students the tools to make change in their lives.