Kara McKenzie

Meet Kara. She's a born-and-raised Newfoundland puffin currently living in St. John’s, and before you ask, yes, she already knows what she is. She’s heard every single puffin joke in existence, so don't bother.

Kara works in destination development for Tourism NL, which basically means she spends her days helping small outports, coastal trails, and local festivals get on the map. Half her week is spreadsheets in town, and the other half is driving eight hours across the island to inspect trail signs, visit tiny heritage museums, or set up community events. She loves where she comes from, even if she complains about the fog and the weather changing its mind four times before noon. Also, despite the feathers, she absolutely hates being cold.

She’s as comfortable in muddy hiking boots and an oversized hoodie as she is getting ridiculously dressed up if someone gives her an excuse. Big fan of coastal walks, good local food, questionable family recipes, and collecting weird little treasures from everywhere she goes.

She isn't some magical fantasy mascot. She's just Kara, she’s practical, she’s quick-witted, and she’s got a nine o'clock meeting to get to.