Forge Backbone Team
Kristen Barnes
she/her/elle
Director, Forge NB
Kristen is passionate about building a future where young people feel heard, understood and empowered to shape the services and spaces created for them. A disability and inclusion advocate, outside of Forge she’s also a mom, crafter, music, board game and photography lover, traveller, waterfall and sunset chaser, adventure seeker, and enthusiastic coffee drinker.
Heather Doyle
Project Manager
As Project Manager for Forge, Heather is excited to be part of a collaborative network dedicated to working in partnership with youth to leverage their unique skills and experiences, to not only improve their future outcomes, but also the future outcomes of youth across NB. As a human being outside of work, Heather loves any activity, in any season, that gets her into nature, but springtime kayaking in the beautiful rivers and creeks of NB is her all time fave.
Israel Parent
Provincial Peer Support Coordinator
Israel is passionate about strengthening peer support across Forge NB by helping build consistent, meaningful practices that keep lived experience, connection and hope at the heart of services for young people. Outside of Forge, he’s a husband and dad, musician, church volunteer, woodworker, garage-project enthusiast, and someone who enjoys spending time with his family and tackling whatever project comes next.
Justin Gaudet
Data Coordinator
Justin Gaudet is the Data Steward with Forge NB, specializing in data quality, governance, and information management while using data to drive meaningful insights and improve outcomes for youth and communities. When he’s not making sure the numbers aren’t lying, you’ll find him exploring the woods, enjoying the pine-fresh scent of melted solder, or spending time with friends and family.
Liam Murphy
he/him/il
Social Worker – Clinical Service Innovation Lead
Liam is a social worker and mental health advocate who believes collective action can change the world. When he isn’t working, Liam enjoys playing video games and going on nature adventures with family.