Enjoy the stories these women shared with us.

You can find the summary page here.

Anna Look (she/her)

Business Event Attraction Consultant, Look Ahead Consulting

Edmonton, AB, located within Treaty 6 Territory and within the Metis Nation of Alberta Region 4

1. Share a little about your journey from high school to where you are now

• I’ve always been interested in people and cultures and what makes places different. From an early age I knew tourism was the subject that was going to keep me interested and learning all my life. My whole career has been in this sector. Despite having dyslexia I acquired a degree in Tourism and then went straight out to work in resorts to understand the business from the frontline – working in Turkey and Lanzarote in the Canary Islands. Returning to the UK I went to work for Thomas Cook in my home town where they were based. I worked as a Duty Manager helping customers all over the world in emergency situations, I learned to think on my feet and I understood the repercussions of extra weather events even 25 years ago. 
• I moved from the tour operator side to the Travel Agency side managing a Travel Agency in the UK for 3 years before emigrating to Canada. Once in Canada I moved into the competitive BC ski industry in International sales. In 2014 I moved to Edmonton, Alberta and started working for a DMO (Destination Management and Marketing Organization) where i land in the Business Events world. its kept my interest ever since because I see it as the intersection of tourism and economic development, centred around what can happen when people gather and exchange knowledge.

2. Tell us about your current role. How are you able to have an impact? If you are a student, what are you studying, and how are you hoping to have an impact when you are done?

• Now I consult with DMOs in Canada and Europe on what their Business Event attraction strategies should be unalignment with their destination’s unique strengths. To me this work has an impact because it focuses my clients to truly understand their local ecosystem and ensure that instead of ‘spraying and praying’ on the events they should be bidding on they are tactical and ensuring the resources they are using in their work are put to the most effective use. They are also building robust cross ecosystem networks, expanding into a more inclusive way of working and helping their cities to utilize their unique strengths to make the lives of their citizens and future residents better.

3. What inspires you in your work? What gives you hope?

• The business events sector is a huge driver of emissions from the air travel that is consumed and the vast amount of resources used to put on events. However, destinations have the power to drastically reduce the footprint of events and can also tackle social progress issues at the same time. My works looks at helping clients to do that work. Looking at best practices from all over the world.
• I also see the next generation of business event planners seeking more sustainable choices and it gives me hope.

4. What advice do you have for students (of any gender) looking ahead to post-secondary education and future careers, and hoping to have impact?

• I believe if you have passion and purpose for a subject matter it is the right course of action to follow that subject or sector because it will keep you interested and enthralled your whole life and drive you to want to improve things for people that touch that sector. Be lead by what makes your heart happy and ask how can I make this better for all?

5. What would you tell students, parents and guidance counsellors about the job and career landscape now, and in the next 5 – 10 years, from your perspective.

• We are never going to phase out the need for human connection and genuine in-person interactions are going to become more precious as the volume of AI and tech generated content floods our lives. 
• As I said above find a topic that makes you happy and learn and explore all you can about it, learn from others and create a network of trusted voices around you.

6. Anything else you want to say to young people, and the adults around them, at this time?

• We are all going to need to make less selfish choices as the climate crisis deepens. Try to find joy and purpose in your local surroundings and see the beauty that is everywhere.

Sidney Howlett (she/her)

Lecturer, Lakehead University

The traditional territory of the Anishinaabeg including the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Pottawatomi Nations (Orillia, Ontario)

1. Share a little about your journey from high school to where you are now

• After high school, I got my Bachelor of Arts and Science, followed by a Bachelor of Education at Lakehead University. I then spent several years as an elementary French immersion teacher before transitioning into the nonprofit sector. After returning to school to complete a Master of Education in Environmental and Sustainability Education, I have continued my work in the nonprofit environmental education sector.

2. Tell us about your current role. How are you able to have an impact? If you are a student, what are you studying, and how are you hoping to have an impact when you are done?

• Most recently, I served as the Board and District Program Manager at EcoSchools Canada, where I developed and launched a climate action program aimed at empowering public school boards to move toward net-zero at scale. I also teach environmental education as a lecturer at Lakehead University in Orillia, preparing future teachers to integrate sustainability into their classrooms.

3. What inspires you in your work? What gives you hope?

• I draw inspiration from seeing the passion and dedication of both students and colleagues who are committed to environmental sustainability. What gives me hope is witnessing how climate action is becoming more integrated into the K-12 education sector in Canada, as well as the broader community’s growing willingness to take meaningful steps towards a more sustainable future.

4. What advice do you have for students (of any gender) looking ahead to post-secondary education and future careers, and hoping to have impact?

• Any job can be a climate job. You don’t need to specifically pursue an environmental career to make a difference. Instead, focus on what you’re passionate about, develop your skills, and then find ways to incorporate sustainability and regeneration into your role or company. Every field has the potential to contribute to a better planet.

5. What would you tell students, parents and guidance counsellors about the job and career landscape now, and in the next 5 – 10 years, from your perspective.

• The job market is changing rapidly, and many roles that exist today—including my most recent roles—didn’t exist a decade ago. In the future, creativity, problem-solving, and adaptability will be key, as every sector is transitioning toward more sustainable practices. It’s essential not to narrow your career path too early. Instead, focus on a mission that aligns with your values and be prepared to take on different roles throughout your life.

6. Anything else you want to say to young people, and the adults around them, at this time?

• Although the world can feel heavy, especially when looking at the challenges ahead, there’s also immense potential for joy and growth along the journey. Lean on your community, and remember that we are all in this together. The challenges ahead will require resilience, creativity, and a commitment to care for the planet and each other.

Wynne Teeter (she/her)

Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Relevé

Amsterdam, Netherlands

1. Share a little about your journey from high school to where you are now

• When I graduated high school, I had no idea that my career would take me into the worlds of sustainability, technology, and the arts. I started out with a passion for education and problem-solving, which led me to study Elementary Education with a minor in Music at the University of Idaho. But as I gained experience in the workforce, I realized that what I loved most was helping organizations and communities operate more efficiently, sustainably, and creatively.

2. Tell us about your current role. How are you able to have an impact? If you are a student, what are you studying, and how are you hoping to have an impact when you are done?

• As Founder and CEO of Relevé, I help organizations integrate sustainability, ESG strategies, and operational efficiencies into their core business practices. My work focuses on ensuring that sustainability isn’t just a goal—but a measurable, actionable part of how businesses, cultural institutions, and nonprofits operate.
• I also serve as Director of Sustainability for Red Light Arts and Culture, I’ve embedded sustainable practices into artistic programming, ensuring that creative events & spaces operate with environmental responsibility in mind.

3. What inspires you in your work? What gives you hope?

• I’m inspired by the power of small actions creating big change. Whether it’s a company integrating sustainability into its core operations, an arts organization reducing its environmental footprint, or a school using data to track its impact, I’ve seen firsthand how strategic decisions can drive real, measurable progress.
• What gives me hope is collaboration—seeing businesses, communities, and creatives come together to solve challenges in innovative ways. The momentum around sustainability, ESG, and social impact is growing, and more organizations are realizing that doing good and doing business can go hand in hand. That shift, fueled by passionate individuals and collective action, keeps me motivated to push for meaningful change.

4. What advice do you have for students (of any gender) looking ahead to post-secondary education and future careers, and hoping to have impact?

• Stay curious, stay flexible, and don’t be afraid to carve your own path. The most meaningful careers aren’t always linear, and sometimes the best opportunities come from unexpected places. Follow what excites you—whether it’s sustainability, technology, the arts, or something entirely new—and look for ways to connect it to a larger purpose.
• Also, build relationships and seek out mentors. Impactful work doesn’t happen in isolation—it happens through collaboration and learning from those who have been in your shoes. And most importantly, don’t wait to start making a difference. Whether through school projects, volunteering, or internships, take action now. You don’t need to have all the answers—just the willingness to learn, adapt, and keep pushing forward.

5. Anything else you want to say to young people, and the adults around them, at this time?

• Stay curious, take action, and enjoy the journey. Asking big questions and exploring new ideas opens doors you never expected. There’s no single right path—only the one you create by following what excites you.

Emma Murphy (she/her)

Director, Sustainability & Innovation, Green Economy Canada

Lands which constitute the present-day City of Mississauga as being part of the Treaty and Traditional Territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, The Haudenosaunee Confederacy, and The Huron-Wendat and Wyandot Nations

1. Share a little about your journey from high school to where you are now

• Growing up, I was always torn between two worlds: the analytical side of science and the creative side of art. My strongest subjects in high school were biology, chemistry, and fine arts. I loved outdoor activities like camping, hiking, and playing lacrosse, and I also found joy in painting, drawing, and design. My parents encouraged me to pursue a science degree, which felt like the responsible thing to do. When it came time to pick a university, I didn’t have a concrete plan, but I trusted my gut. I chose the University of Guelph—it felt like the right fit, not too close or too far from home, had a great campus vibe and wasn’t too large or situated in a big city.

• I ended up enrolling in their Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science program. At first, it wasn’t always clear to me how this degree would align with my love for creativity, but over time, I realized that science and art could actually complement each other. After graduation, I worked in the Pest Control Industry, but something didn’t feel quite right. I knew I was meant to do something more aligned with my passions. So, I took a leap, went back to school for a Master’s in Environmental Education and Communication at Royal Roads, and started to shape the career I’ve built today.

• But my journey wasn’t always straightforward. After school, I moved into Environmental Management roles across various industries, from automotive manufacturing to corporate retail to contract furniture design. Each job taught me valuable lessons, but it wasn’t until I made the leap into sustainability at Green Economy Canada that I felt I’d truly found my calling where my creativity was not only necessary but was welcomed and celebrated. I started as a volunteer, worked my way up to Project Manager, and now, as Director, I lead sustainability efforts that help organizations reduce their environmental impact.

• The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that it’s okay to not have everything figured out from the start. Life is full of twists and turns, and sometimes the road less traveled ends up being the one that leads to your purpose. Along the way, I’ve learned that failure doesn’t define you—it teaches you what to do differently next time. And most importantly, if you’re passionate about something—whether it’s the environment, creativity, or something else—go after it with everything you’ve got. You never know where it might lead.

• If I could offer one piece of advice to young people, it would be this: trust your instincts, embrace the unexpected, and don’t be afraid to take risks. The world needs your unique perspective, and there’s so much opportunity to make a difference, whether it’s through sustainability, art, or any other field that sparks your passion. Your path may not be linear, but that’s what makes it all the more rewarding in the end.

2. Tell us about your current role. How are you able to have an impact? If you are a student, what are you studying, and how are you hoping to have an impact when you are done?

• I am the Director of Sustainability & Innovation and oversee a network of nonprofit organizations across Canada that work with businesses of all sectors and sizes to adopt sustainability practices, reduce emissions and ultimately address climate change.

3. What inspires you in your work? What gives you hope?

• All of the amazing people that I get to do this work alongside. The people in climate/environment/sustainability work are dedicated systems thinkers and shift disturbers. We’re cool and fun and on a mission together. When the days feel difficult, I look around this wonderful community and am reminded that I’m not alone and that we’ve made strides.

4. What advice do you have for students (of any gender) looking ahead to post-secondary education and future careers, and hoping to have impact?

• Don’t treat your education or career as a ladder. It is a jungle gym. Its ok to go down, sideways and fall off and start over. Learn about the things that interest you, see the bigger picture, question and find the (legitimate) connections between different areas of study or in the market. Once you see the wicked problem you’re meant to address, you’ll know.

5. What would you tell students, parents and guidance counsellors about the job and career landscape now, and in the next 5 – 10 years, from your perspective.

• Resilience is key. People who perform the best are very comfortable with uncertainty, conflicting priorities and the feeling that there is a lot to do (which can all be very overwhelming). Mental and physical health management are important. Emotional intelligence and empathy are important. Rest and play are important.

6. Anything else you want to say to young people, and the adults around them, at this time?

• To the young people: you’re not alone in building your careers, reach out and ask for time from people who have the experiences you want to have. We want to support you.
• To the adults: make sure you’re listening (like really listening) to what the young people in your life need and what they are afraid of in their future, and ask yourself what you can do now to make the difference for them.

Erin Flood (she/her)

Chief Operating Officer, Canada’s Forest Trust

Toronto, the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe, Haudenosaunee, and Wendat peoples

1. Share a little about your journey from high school to where you are now

• From high school to now, my journey has been shaped by a passion for people, business, and impact. I studied psychology and sociology—foundational to how I navigate relationships and business strategy today. After high school, I worked at a nonprofit, where I developed a deep appreciation for social enterprise, eventually leading me to launch two companies in the nature and data technology space. Those experiences brought me to where I am today: serving as COO of Canada’s Forest Trust Corporation, a social enterprise committed to democratizing nature through forest building.

2. Tell us about your current role. How are you able to have an impact? If you are a student, what are you studying, and how are you hoping to have an impact when you are done?

• As the COO of Canada’s Forest Trust Corporation, I have the opportunity to drive meaningful impact at the intersection of business, sustainability, and social enterprise. My role is focused on scaling our mission to democratize nature through forest building, ensuring that businesses, communities, and individuals can take real climate action. I work closely with our team to develop innovative partnerships, refine our operational strategy, and create solutions that make investing in nature accessible and impactful. By bridging business strategy with social and environmental responsibility, I help position CFT as a leader in nature-based solutions while fostering long-term sustainability for future generations.

3. What inspires you in your work? What gives you hope?

• What inspires me most in my work is the possibility of real, tangible impact. Seeing businesses, communities, and individuals come together to invest in nature gives me hope that we can shift the way we approach sustainability—not as a side initiative, but as a fundamental part of how we operate in the world. I’m driven by the idea that business can be a force for good, that economic success and environmental responsibility don’t have to be at odds, and that we can create systems that benefit both people and the planet.
• I also find deep inspiration in young people. Their energy, creativity, and unwillingness to accept the status quo push us all to do better. The next generation isn’t just talking about change—they’re demanding it, and that gives me hope.
• Finally, nature itself is a source of endless inspiration. Forests teach us patience, resilience, and interconnectedness. They remind us that small actions—like planting a tree—can lead to something powerful over time. Knowing that the work we do today will create lasting benefits for future generations keeps me motivated every day.

4. What advice do you have for students (of any gender) looking ahead to post-secondary education and future careers, and hoping to have impact?

• My biggest advice for students is to stay curious and open to unexpected opportunities. Your studies will give you a foundation, but it’s the experiences you pursue—volunteering, side projects, internships, or entrepreneurial ventures—that will shape your path. Impact doesn’t come from following a rigid blueprint; it comes from identifying problems you care about and finding creative ways to solve them.
• Surround yourself with people who challenge and inspire you, and don’t be afraid to take risks. Whether in business, sustainability, or any other field, the most meaningful work happens when you combine your skills with a mission that matters. The world needs bold thinkers—so be willing to carve your own path, embrace failure as part of growth, and always ask: How can I make things better?

5. What would you tell students, parents and guidance counsellors about the job and career landscape now, and in the next 5 – 10 years, from your perspective.

• The job and career landscape is evolving rapidly, and the next 5–10 years will bring even more change. From my perspective, there are three key trends students, parents, and guidance counselors should keep in mind:
• Skills Over Degrees – While education is important, employers are placing increasing value on skills, adaptability, and problem-solving over traditional credentials. Students should focus on building a mix of technical and soft skills—like critical thinking, communication, and digital literacy—through hands-on experiences, internships, and self-directed learning.
• Sustainability and Social Impact Are Becoming Business Norms – Companies across industries are being held accountable for their environmental and social impact. Careers in sustainability, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance), and corporate responsibility will continue to grow, making it essential for students to understand how business intersects with global challenges.
• Technology and AI Will Reshape Work – Automation and AI will continue to shift job markets, replacing some roles while creating new opportunities. The ability to work alongside technology—whether through data analysis, creative problem-solving, or ethical decision-making—will be a major asset in any field.
• Ultimately, future careers will reward those who are adaptable, purpose-driven, and open to continuous learning. My advice? Be flexible, follow your interests, and don’t be afraid to carve your own path—even if it doesn’t exist yet. The most successful careers are built on curiosity, resilience, and a willingness to take risks.

6. Anything else you want to say to young people, and the adults around them, at this time?

• To young people: The future is yours to shape. The world is changing fast, and while that can feel overwhelming, it also means there’s room for fresh ideas, new ways of thinking, and bold action. Don’t wait for permission to start—whether it’s a project, a cause, or a career path that excites you. Ask questions, challenge the status quo, and surround yourself with people who inspire you. Your generation has the creativity and drive to make a real difference.
• To the adults—parents, educators, and mentors: Support young people in exploring their interests, even if their path looks different from what you expected. The best thing you can do is encourage curiosity, resilience, and a mindset of lifelong learning. The careers of tomorrow may not exist today, but with the right foundation—problem-solving, adaptability, and purpose-driven thinking—young people will be ready to lead and innovate in ways we can’t yet imagine.
• We need all hands on deck to create a future that’s more sustainable, equitable, and innovative.

Areej Riaz

Grassroots Climate Action Organizer, EnviroMuslims Canada & Director of Climate Programs at For Our Kids Canada

The traditional lands of the Anishinaabek, Haudenosaunee, Lūnaapéewak  and Attawandaron (London, Ontario).

1. Share a little about your journey from high school to where you are now

• It’s funny how life sometimes takes you on a winding path! In high school, I was deeply immersed in biology and other sciences. My parents envisioned a medical career for me, but when it came time to choose my undergraduate studies, I felt a pull towards the arts. I ended up majoring in interior design, which I thoroughly enjoyed.
• However, when I started considering postgraduate options, I realized that my passion for science and the natural world hadn’t faded. I decided to take a chance and enrolled in a “taster” environmental science class offered by my university. That class was a complete game-changer. Learning about the environmental challenges facing our planet was both alarming and deeply motivating. I never truly left that classroom, in a sense. It sparked a passion in me that has guided my path ever since.
• I went on to complete a master’s degree in environmental science and then another in applied carbon management. Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to work in various aspects of climate action, from supporting businesses in adopting sustainable practices to working with the financial sector on climate finance. I’ve even had the privilege of supporting developing country governments in creating their climate action plans and working at the grassroots level to empower communities.
• My journey has taken me across the globe, with stints in Pakistan, the UK, various countries in Africa and Asia, and even the Latin America and Caribbean region. I finally landed in Canada in 2019, and I’m excited to continue contributing to climate action here.
• It’s been a winding road with unexpected turns, but I wouldn’t change a thing. Each step has brought me closer to where I am today, and I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to learn, grow, and contribute to creating a more sustainable future.

2. Tell us about your current role. How are you able to have an impact? If you are a student, what are you studying, and how are you hoping to have an impact when you are done?

• I’m currently involved in grassroots community action on two fronts: with For Our Kids and with EnviroMuslims.
• At For Our Kids, I work with a fantastic network of parents and caregivers across Canada who are passionate about addressing climate change. My role is all about supporting these parents, providing them with resources, and empowering them to take action within their communities and schools. We believe that parents are uniquely positioned to advocate for change, and we want to equip them with the tools and skills they need to make a real difference.
• With EnviroMuslims, I engage with the Canadian Muslim community on environmental issues and climate action. We work to raise awareness, promote sustainable practices, and inspire action within mosques, schools, and other community spaces. It’s about connecting faith with environmental stewardship and empowering the Muslim community to become leaders in the climate movement.
• In both roles, my focus is on supporting those closest to the issues, whether it’s parents concerned about their children’s future or Muslims seeking to live in harmony with the environment. I believe that by empowering individuals and communities with knowledge, skills, and resources, we can catalyze widespread climate action and create a more sustainable future for all.
• Ultimately, I see my impact in the ripple effect of empowered individuals and communities taking action. It’s about fostering leadership, building capacity, and creating a groundswell of climate action that starts at the grassroots level and spreads throughout society.

3. What inspires you in your work? What gives you hope?

• What inspires me most is the incredible passion and dedication of the people I work with. Whether it’s parents fighting for a healthier future for their children or community members coming together to protect their local environment, I’m constantly amazed by the energy and commitment people bring to the table. Witnessing those “aha” moments when someone realizes they can make a difference, that’s incredibly inspiring.
• And honestly, it’s the kids that give me the most hope. Their energy, their idealism, their unwavering belief in a better future – it’s contagious! They remind me why this work is so important and why we need to keep pushing for change. They are the ones who will inherit the world we leave behind, and I’m determined to do everything I can to make sure it’s a world where they can thrive.
• I also find hope in the growing momentum of the climate movement. More and more people are waking up to the urgency of the climate crisis and demanding action. We’re seeing incredible innovation and creativity in developing solutions, and there’s a growing sense of collective responsibility. It’s not going to be easy, but I believe that together, we can create a more sustainable and just future for all.

4. What advice do you have for students (of any gender) looking ahead to post-secondary education and future careers, and hoping to have impact?

• Don’t be afraid to take risks: Step outside your comfort zone and embrace new experiences. Sometimes the biggest leaps forward come from taking a chance on something unfamiliar.
• Let your values guide your choices and actions. Impact often comes from aligning your work with what you believe in and staying true to your principles.And most importantly, believe in yourself and your ability to make a difference. The world needs passionate and engaged individuals to tackle the challenges we face. Your contributions matter, and you have the power to create positive change.

5. What would you tell students, parents and guidance counsellors about the job and career landscape now, and in the next 5 – 10 years, from your perspective.

• The job landscape is evolving rapidly!
• Lifelong learning is key: Embrace adaptability and continuous learning to stay relevant in a changing job market.
• Focus on transferable skills: Cultivate skills like critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving, which are valuable across various fields.
• Explore emerging fields: Encourage exploration of growing sectors like renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and green technology.
• Consider the “green economy”: The transition to a low-carbon economy is creating numerous jobs and opportunities.
• Value purpose and impact: Seek careers that align with values and contribute to positive change.

6. Anything else you want to say to young people, and the adults around them, at this time?

• Don’t underestimate the power of your voice and your ability to create change. Speak up about the issues you care about, get involved in your community, and use your talents and passions to make a difference. But through it all, remember that the world can feel overwhelming at times. Prioritize your well-being, practice self-care, and find support in your community.

Emilie DeRochie (she/her)

Project Coordinator & Course Instructor, River Institute & St. Lawrence College 

Summerstown, ON – land of the Haudenosaunee People, most specifically, the Mohawks

1. Share a little about your journey from high school to where you are now

• I did not know what I wanted to as a career while do in high school and honestly did not do very well academically until grade 11. A challenge throughout grade school was that I am dyslexic. I now thoroughly believe that the biggest challenge in being dyslexic is not that I had to spend more time studying or learning in alternative ways, but that those around me did not believe that I could achieve much academically. How is someone supposed to believe they are capable if no one around them does?
• In grade 11, I decided not to let the beliefs of others get in my way, and worked to achieve better grades. This motivation came from my grade 11 English teacher telling me that my goal of an 80% in his course was not realistic. This was both infuriating and somehow provided me with motivation. In my grade 12 year, I ended up having over an 80% average and have since completed three degrees.

2. Tell us about your current role. How are you able to have an impact? If you are a student, what are you studying, and how are you hoping to have an impact when you are done?

• My current role is the River Strategy Project Coordinator at the River Institute and a course instructor at St. Lawrence College.
• I am able to have an impact through facilitating connection among the people that work and care for the St. Lawrence River. The purpose of the River Strategy is to facilitate increased inclusive and equitable communication and collaboration along the St. Lawrence River and beyond, guided by the Haudenosaunee’s Two Row Wampum Approach. Through this approach, we facilitate connection among individuals with peace, friendship and respect in mind.
• Through teaching at St. Lawrence College, I hope to have an impact related the environment by helping students go beyond just learning about the environment, but to also gain an appreciation for nature and its importance to everything and everyone. In regards to climate change, I try to add climate mitigation tid bits to my lectures wherever possible, to hopefully empower students to take climate action – even if it is just composting or carpooling. I believe it is important to start with smaller, more achievable steps when introducing climate mitigation strategies.

3. What inspires you in your work? What gives you hope?

• The empowered and powerful women that surround me in both the environmental science space and environmental education space. Seeing that so many people care to make change and intend to make change sends a hopeful message!

4. What advice do you have for students (of any gender) looking ahead to post-secondary education and future careers, and hoping to have impact?

• Do not let those around you decide what you are capable of! Hard work and dedication goes a long way.

5. What would you tell students, parents and guidance counsellors about the job and career landscape now, and in the next 5 – 10 years, from your perspective.

• Diversify your resume and expand your network!

Aruzhan (Aria) Kani (she/her)

Program Development and Partnerships Manager, Break the Divide

Toronto, traditional territory of many nations including the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishnabeg, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee and the Wendat peoples

1. Share a little about your journey from high school to where you are now

• In high school, I pursued the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma, focusing on philosophy, business, and chemistry as my core subjects. While I was always passionate about climate advocacy and social justice, I wasn’t sure how to channel that passion into meaningful action.
• When I entered university, I chose to major in Psychology and International Relations, driven by a deep curiosity about the human mind and global power dynamics. These disciplines allowed me to explore how people think, what motivates collective action, and how international structures shape social and environmental issues.
• Now, two years after graduating, I am the Program Development and Partnerships Manager at Break The Divide Foundation, a youth-led climate nonprofit. In this role, I have designed and led two flagship programs:
  1) The Climate Emotions Program, which helps high school students process their climate emotions and build connections.
  2) The Climate Skills & Community Building Fellowship, developed in collaboration with the Canadian CED Network, which provided climate education and community-building opportunities for international students and newcomer youth in Toronto.
• Looking ahead, I aspire to continue amplifying marginalized voices and integrating climate advocacy into all aspects of my work, ensuring that young people have the tools and support they need to drive meaningful change.

2. Tell us about your current role. How are you able to have an impact? If you are a student, what are you studying, and how are you hoping to have an impact when you are done?

• In my current role at Break The Divide, I have had the opportunity to develop meaningful resources on eco-anxiety and other climate emotions, crafting activities that both students and teachers can integrate into their classrooms. Beyond creating materials, I’ve facilitated connection sessions, engaging directly with students to provide a safe space for them to process their emotions. I believe that seeing a young person like themselves working in the climate space—navigating similar struggles and uncertainties—can be incredibly powerful and validating.
• Through the Climate Skills & Community Building Fellowship, I have also helped organize in-person and online climate cafés, where participants discuss the mental health impacts of climate change and explore how their cultures and lived experiences shape their perspectives on the crisis. Hearing students express that they feel less isolated and more hopeful after completing the program has been incredibly rewarding. Similarly, seeing newcomer youth feel more connected and empowered to take climate action in their own communities has reinforced the importance of this work.
• For me, the most meaningful aspect of my role has been delivering workshops, fostering community, and witnessing the small but significant shifts in how young people see themselves as changemakers. Programs like ours play a crucial role in inspiring and equipping future leaders, showing them that their voices and emotions matter in the fight for climate justice.

3. What inspires you in your work? What gives you hope?

• What inspires me most is the power of community—the people, movements, and collective efforts that drive change in the climate space and beyond. Seeing so many individuals dedicated to making a difference, each contributing in their own way, reassures me that I am not alone in this fight. It’s incredibly motivating to witness people come together, share knowledge, and support one another in pursuit of a more just and sustainable world.
• I firmly believe that change happens when we connect and build collective momentum. This is what we discussed in both of my college programs – Psychology and International Relations and it’s fascinating the way that they are interconnected. When you look around and recognize not just who you are fighting for, but also who you are fighting alongside, the work feels less daunting. It reminds me that hope isn’t something we find—it’s something we create together.

4. What advice do you have for students (of any gender) looking ahead to post-secondary education and future careers, and hoping to have impact?

• You can achieve far more than you think, so dream big! You don’t have to have it all figured out straight away – take your time. In today’s interconnected world, learning, networking, and creating impact is more accessible than ever. Take advantage of the resources, stories, and opportunities around you, but don’t get too stressed – you are so young and you have so much more time than you think! I think that was my mistake – I felt like I needed to rush through things and get everything figured out as soon as possible.
• Here’s my advice:
  1) Start with curiosity. Explore different fields, challenge yourself, and don’t be afraid to try new things. You don’t need to have everything figured out right away—self-discovery is part of the journey.
  2) Research & connect. If you have a dream, start breaking it down: Who is doing work that inspires you? What steps did they take? Reach out to people, ask questions, and learn from their experiences. Listen to Mel Robbins even maybe. Remember that people around you are not your competition, they are simply showing you what can be done! If they can do it, so can you 🙂 Think about it as a cheat sheet – others are leading the way.
  3) Take small steps. Big goals can feel overwhelming, but the key is to focus on what’s in front of you. Every small step forward is progress, even if it’s just reading an article, attending a workshop, or sending a message to someone in your field of interest. Sometimes getting through the day is already a big step towards success!
  4) Trust the process. There will be moments of doubt and uncertainty and that’s totally normal, especially at your age. Embrace the unknown (I am still working on this), keep learning, and give yourself grace! You are doing great!
  5) Don’t compare your path to others. Everyone’s journey looks different. Your timeline is your own, and success isn’t a race.
• Most importantly, enjoy the ride. Post-secondary education and career-building aren’t just about getting to the “next step”—they’re about growing, discovering who you are, and finding the impact only you can make.

5. What would you tell students, parents and guidance counsellors about the job and career landscape now, and in the next 5 – 10 years, from your perspective.

• The career landscape is evolving faster than ever, and the climate sphere is no exception. While it may feel unpredictable at times, one thing is certain: we need more voices, perspectives, and changemakers to push us forward. The climate field is expanding, and opportunities in sustainability, policy, technology, and social impact are only growing.
• For students, I want to say this: no matter what field you’re passionate about—whether it’s science, business, art, law, or technology—there’s a place for you in the climate space. Climate work isn’t just for activists or scientists; it’s for storytellers, innovators, educators, and entrepreneurs too. Follow your curiosity, explore different opportunities, and know that your voice and perspective matter.
• Parents and guidance counsellors, the best thing you can do for young people is encourage them to explore boldly! Instead of focusing on what’s “realistic,” help them dream big and figure out the steps to get there. The jobs of the future may not even exist yet, but creativity, adaptability, and purpose-driven work will always be valuable. Their unique perspectives and passions are their biggest assets, even if they don’t realize it yet.
• The world needs young people who are ready to challenge the status quo, think outside the box, and bring fresh ideas to the table. Support them, believe in them, and remind them that anything is possible.

6. Anything else you want to say to young people, and the adults around them, at this time?

• You got this! I will always be cheering you on!