What's it like to be a Sustainability Ambassador? Hear directly from current Sustainability Ambassadors about their experiences. Learn what's important to them, what they hope to achieve, and the valuable insights and skills they've gained from participating in the program.

Current Cohort Bios

Click the icons below to be directed to a specific cohort.

Sustainability Leads

Climate Outreach Cohort

Climate Wellbeing Cohort

Sustainable Transportation Cohort

Environmental Justice Cohort

Youth Climate Ambassadors Project (YCAP) Cohort

 

Sustainability Leads


Olivia Moore

Olivia Moore (she/her): Climate Outreach Cohort Lead
Master of Public Policy & Global Affairs + BA in International Relations

Olivia is starting a Master of Public Policy and Global Affairs, having recently graduated with a BA in International Relations at UBC. Growing up in North Vancouver, on the unceded land of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish) Nation, Olivia developed a love of nature and a desire to work in sustainability. Throughout her studies, Olivia has been interested in social movements and climate justice, aiming to understand how systemic forces intersect to exacerbate existing global inequalities. Expanding upon her work at the Hub, Olivia hopes to work on local climate policy solutions. In her spare time, she enjoys baking, watching documentaries, and spending time outdoors.

 


Ceilidh Smith

Cèilidh Smith (she/they): Climate Wellbeing Cohort Lead
Master of Forestry & Forestry Science + BSc in Natural Resources Conservation

Cèilidh is a Scottish settler and Red River Métis residing on xʷməθkʷəy̓əm lands. Raised on S'ólh Téméxw, she developed an early passion for the socio-ecological dimensions of climate and landscapes. Cèilidh has three summers of field research and four years of facilitation experience with Climate Justice UBC, Campus Tours, and the Faculty of Forestry. Cèilidh holds a BSc in Natural Resources Conservation and is pursuing a dual MF+MSc through TRANSFOR-M. Having studied in Sweden, Cèilidh will defend her thesis on Swedish and Canadian place-based education for fostering youth-nature relationships. In addition to community-led climate justice, Cèilidh is a fierce advocate of combining traditional knowledges, sciences, and arts as a powerful approach to sustainability challenges. 

 


Anoop Kaur Dayel

Anoop Kaur Dayal (she/her): Sustainable Transportation Cohort Lead
Master of Community & Regional Planning + BA in Human Geography

Anoop is a Punjabi Sikh settler and guest on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territories of the Coast Salish peoples, including the Katzie, Kwantlen and Semiahmoo First Nations, in what is now known as Surrey. As a student pursuing her Master of Community & Regional Planning, she is passionate about creating inclusive and resilient communities, with a particular interest in ethnic enclaves and diasporic communities. Her academic and professional experiences have focused on equity, participatory planning, and climate justice, with a growing interest in how transportation systems can foster access, connection, and belonging. In her free time, she finds joy in quiet walks through nature and the occasional baking experiment. 

 


MutumaMutuma (he/him): Environmental Justice Cohort Lead
Bachelor of Arts in Human Geography

Mutuma is a Pan-Africanist from Nairobi, Kenya, who currently works and resides on the unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations. He is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Human Geography and is fervent about the intersections of culture, the creative arts, and socio-economic development in Sub-Saharan Africa and across the continent’s diaspora communities. Mutuma is passionate about using media, education, dialogue, and artistic expression to legitimize “non-Western/traditional” systems of knowledge; applying them in contemporary efforts against climate injustice and the continued oppression of marginalized communities.

 


Maaya Patel

Maaya Patel (she/her): Youth Climate Ambassador Project (YCAP) Cohort Lead
Bachelor of Arts in International Relations

Maaya is in her fourth year, majoring in International Relations with a minor in Law and Society. She is deeply passionate about the intersection of law, policy, and global affairs, with a commitment to advancing innovative, socially just, and ecologically responsible solutions at the local level. Maaya aspires to pursue a career in environmental law and diplomacy, where she seeks to equip legal frameworks to drive meaningful, sustainable change both domestically and internationally. Growing up and learning on the unceded, ancestral, and traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, she holds a deep appreciation for the land and enjoys spending her free time exploring and appreciating the outdoors.

 


Keiran Hoang

Keiran Hoang (they/he): Sustainability Engagement Lead
Bachelor of Arts in Environment & Sustainability + Master of Management

Keiran is a third-year student completing a Bachelor of Arts in Environment & Sustainability and a Master of Management with a minor in GIS & Geographical Computation. Growing up in East Vancouver on the unceded lands of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), səl̓ilwətaɁɬ təməxʷ (Tsleil-Waututh), and S’ólh Téméxw (Stó:lō) peoples, they have developed a curiosity for the history of the land, both cultural and natural. Passionate about practical sustainability, they aim to drive meaningful change in institutions, businesses, and communities. With a focus on actionable change, Keiran looks forward to inspiring climate awareness and fostering a culture of sustainability. In their spare time, they enjoy drawing and exploring new neighbourhoods!

 


Anjali Ananadavally Varghese

Anjali Anandavally Varghese (she/her): Catalyst Program Lead
Bachelor of Arts in Sociology

Anjali is a South Indian settler living and learning on the unceded, ancestral and stolen land of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) people, in so-called “Vancouver.” She is a fourth-year undergraduate student pursuing a major in Sociology with a minor in Gender, Race, Sexuality and Social Justice. Anjali’s academic and community work is grounded in her commitment to social and climate justice with a particular interest in food security, accessibility and community-based (un)learning and growth. With over a year’s experience in community and student engagement, Anjali is dedicated to fostering spaces that amplify marginalized voices and creating opportunities for collective action through reciprocal community and capacity-building efforts. Outside of school and work, Anjali finds joy in singing, long walks, and sharing meals with her friends.

 


Climate Outreach Cohort

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Clare Byram

Clare Byram (she/her): Ambassador
Bachelor of Science in Natural Resources

Clare is a third-year Forestry student studying Bioeconomy Science and Technology. Growing up with close proximity to the ocean and forests, she developed a close connection to nature and a desire to pursue a pathway working to protect the environment. Through her studies, she is interested in the intersection of sustainability and the economy, and minimizing waste during the production and lifespan of products. As a Sustainability Ambassador, she is excited to learn more about the social aspects of climate change and mitigation efforts throughout the city of Vancouver. 
 

 


Giulia Marchetti

Giulia Maria Marchetti (she/her): Ambassador
Bachelor of Science in Natural Resources

Giulia Maria Marchetti is a third-year undergraduate student studying Natural Resources Conservation. Raised between the Italian Alpine arch and the temperate rainforest as a settler in dxʷdəwʔabš (Duwamish) and sdukʷalbixʷ (Snoqualmie) lands, Giulia developed a deep sense of belonging within forested landscapes. She seeks to inspire this connection to nature in others through environmental research, stewardship, and education. Throughout her studies, she has cultivated a strong interest in the intersection of ecosystem adaptation and environmental equity in the context of climate change. Giulia aspires to pursue a career in ecological research, focusing on supporting frontline communities through inclusive, climate-resilient solutions.

 


Grace Chen

Grace Chen (she/her): Ambassador
Master of Community & Regional Planning + BA in International Relations

Grace is a 2nd-year student in the Master's of Community and Regional Planning program. She has a strong interest in the social aspects of climate change, such as access to emergency preparedness infrastructure. She brings her enthusiasm for public engagement and community-building to communicate information about climate change initiatives. Grace joined the Sustainability Ambassadors to gain direct experience engaging with the local community and improve the public's understanding of the environmental effects of overconsumption. In her free time, Grace enjoys dance classes, hiking, attending local cultural events and chilling at home with her very large cat. 

 


John Natcher

John Natcher (he/him): Ambassador
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science + International Relations

John is a fourth-year undergraduate student pursuing a double major in Political Science and International Relations at UBC. Throughout his studies, he has developed a strong interest in environmental law, sustainable governance, and public policy. His research assistantships in Rovaniemi, Finland, and Bodø, Norway, deepened these interests by allowing him to study Arctic governance and community resilience to climate change. John is excited to bring these experiences into his UBC journey by joining the climate outreach cohort. He looks forward to learning from his peers, contributing to both primary and secondary initiatives, and enjoying a meaningful, collaborative experience.

 


Kezia TjoegitoKezia Tjoegito (she/they): Ambassador
Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sciences

Kezia Tjoegito is a Chinese-Indonesian settler, living and studying on the ancestral, unceded, and traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) Nation. She is currently pursuing an Environmental Sciences degree with a concentration in Land, Air, and Water. Through this program, she aims to promote Indigenous knowledge, raise awareness of climate justice, and inspire communities to practice environmental stewardship in their daily lives. She loves being outdoors, unless it's pouring rain, and spends her free time trying to identify plant species on nature walks with her guidebook.

 

 


Moira Guanlao

Moira Guanlao (she/her): Ambassador
Bachelor of Science in Integrated Sciences

Moira is a fourth-year Integrated Sciences student passionate about the intersections of human health, sustainability, and climate action. With experience as a frontline healthcare worker and volunteering on climate projects, she explores how climate change affects public health and how sustainable practices can strengthen local resilience and equity. As a Sustainability Ambassador, Moira looks forward to promoting climate literacy, facilitating events, and engaging community members in developing practical initiatives. She is motivated by the challenge of turning ideas into initiatives designed to benefit people and the environment. In her free time, she enjoys DIY projects and attending concerts and musicals.

 


Natsune Otake

Natsune Otake (she/her): Ambassador
Bachelor of Arts in International Relations

Natsune is a third-year International Relations student minoring in Economics. Growing up across South and Southeast Asia as well as the Middle East, she developed a deep interest in sustainable development through witnessing diverse environmental issues and their impacts on communities. Her professional experiences span corporate social responsibility in financial firms and sustainable technology in renewable energy, reflecting her commitment to bridging the private and public sectors. Currently, she is exploring how sustainability can shape urban planning and policy. Natsune aspires to advance global sustainability efforts through international cooperation and multilateral organizations.

 


Nicole Shen

Nicole Shen (she/her): Ambassador
Bachelor of Science in Natural Resources

Nicole Shen is a third-year undergraduate student in Natural Resources Conservation, majoring in Global Perspectives. Growing up in both England and Taiwan shaped her awareness of how different cultures connect with and depend on the environment. Now studying in Canada, Nicole has become curious about environmental economics, where science and quantitative analysis inform solutions to complex challenges. As a Sustainability Ambassador, she is eager to explore how Vancouver is advancing sustainability through policies and how these efforts can be communicated to and applied by local communities. Outside of work, she enjoys outdoor activities, baking, and, as the season gets chillier, diving into a new craft project.

 


Sofia Ahmadiyar

Sofia Ahmadiyar (she/her): Ambassador
Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy + Political Science

Sofia is a third-year Philosophy and Political Science student. She first realized her love for nature as a child during Nowruz, or the Persian New Year, since its traditions of jumping over fire and tying blades of grass were also accompanied with lots of food and joy. Though she became a retired Girl Scout at the ripe age of thirteen, she can still recite the Girl Scout Law, in which it is promised to make the world a better place and to use resources wisely. Today, she is eager (and grateful!) to work toward these goals as a sustainability ambassador!

 


Sonia Sadeghian

Sonia Sadeghian (she/her): Ambassador
Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sciences

Sonia Sadeghian is a third-year Environmental Science student; an international student originally from Iran. Growing up as an outdoorsy child who loved climbing trees and playing in the snow, she witnessed firsthand the impacts of climate change as winters grew shorter each year. These experiences sparked her passion for sustainability and inspired her to focus her studies on creating a more resilient and environmentally conscious future. With a strong belief that renewable energy is key to combating global warming, Sonia joined the Sustainability Ambassadors program to help promote sustainable practices and community engagement on campus and beyond.

 


Vaishnavi PolavaramVaishnavi Polavaram (she/her): Ambassador
Bachelor of Applied Science in Chemical Engineering

Vaishnavi is a third-year Chemical Engineering student with a strong interest in sustainable technologies and their role in addressing climate change. She is passionate about renewable energy, green chemistry, and developing solutions that minimize environmental impact while meeting community needs. Through her academic studies, she has explored how engineering can advance cleaner technologies and foster sustainable practices. As part of the Sustainability Ambassadors program, she hopes to collaborate with like-minded peers, engage in campus initiatives, and create tangible environmental impact on campus and beyond.

 


 

Climate Outreach Journey

Check out what the ambassadors were doing by clicking on any destination point!
​The following visualization may not display correctly on smaller screens. You may have a better experience on a desktop or laptop.


Climate Outreach Journey


 

Climate Wellbeing Cohort

Expand to see individual ambassador profiles


Cynthia Wang

Cynthia Wang (she/her): Ambassador
Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting

Cynthia is a third-year student at the UBC Sauder School of Business, specializing in accounting. She is deeply interested in sustainability and is eager to expand her understanding of climate-related issues and corporate environmental responsibility. Through academic, extracurricular, and community engagement, she hopes to explore how businesses can contribute meaningfully to climate well-being and long-term environmental stewardship.

 

 


Damaris Villegas

Damaris Villegas: Ambassador
Bachelor of Science in Global Resource Systems

 

 

 

 

 


Iris Wang

Iris Wang (she/her): Ambassador
Bachelor of Commerce in Business Technology Management

Iris is a fifth-year student pursuing a double major in Business Technology Management and Operations & Logistics with a concentration in Sustainability and Social Impact. She has witnessed how issues of climate justice and wellness profoundly affect people’s well-being, inspiring her passion for driving meaningful change. Iris is especially interested in bridging the gap between business and sustainability by helping organizations adopt authentic and responsible practices. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, hiking, and creating ceramics.
 

 


Kenedy Jiron BakerKenedy Jiron-Baker (she/her): Ambassador
Bachelor of Science in Chemistry + Oceanography

Kenedy is currently completing her second year as a Chemistry and Oceanography Major in the Faculty of Science. Growing up in a very climate-conscious and outdoorsy family in Colorado, USA, has led to a deep appreciation for the environment and a desire to pursue a climate-related degree. She has always been passionate about learning and sharing the intricacies between societal tensions and the environment. Kenedy is glad to join the Sustainability Ambassadors and the mission to create tangible change around these issues.

 

 


Navreen Sekhon

Navreen Sekhon (she/her): Ambassador
Bachelor of Science in Biology 

Navreen is an undergraduate student studying Biology and Psychology. She's passionate about connection within the community and finding a way to make mental health support resources more accessible for everyone. As part of the climate wellbeing cohort, she hopes to learn more about how the different intersections of one's identity influence how they approach and are affected by the climate crisis. Navreen believes that the best way to make change is to interact with people directly and to foster a community that works, communicates, and relies on each other. In her free time, Navreen enjoys reading, art, and going for walks.

 


Pabasarini KachchakadugePabasarini Kachchakaduge (she/her): Ambassador
Bachelor of Arts in English Literature

Pabasarini is a settler learning on the unceded, ancestral, and stolen land of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) people. She is an undergraduate student majoring in English Literature and minoring in Gender, Race, Sexuality and Social Justice. Pabasarini is passionate about learning about climate justice and the intersectional dimensions of the climate crisis. As a part of the climate wellbeing cohort, she is particularly excited to build community and work with youth through the Climate Justice and Leadership Camp, a space for youth to engage with climate education and wellbeing.

 

 


Rashi GuptaRashi Gupta (she/her): Ambassador
Bachelor of Commerce

Rashi is a second-year student at the Sauder School of Business, intending to specialize in Finance in her third year. Rashi is originally from Madhya Pradesh, India, but was raised her whole life in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City, where she calls her home. In her free time, Rashi loves to listen to music, hang out with friends, read books related to business & finance, and watch comedy shows!
 

 

 


Sisilia ChenSisilia Chen (he/him): Ambassador
Master of Arts in Art Education

Sisilia (she/her) is an M.A. student in the Faculty of Education at UBC, specializing in Art Education. She calls China, Japan, and Vancouver home — places that shape her sense of identity, creativity, and belonging. Before starting graduate studies, she worked as a psychology counsellor supporting children’s emotional well-being and confidence, experiences that continue to guide her work today. Sisilia is passionate about exploring how art can foster connection, care, and sustainable relationships between people and places. She loves creating poetic journals, walking with public art, and building collaborative spaces where creativity nurtures community well-being.
 

 


Talha Zubair

Talha Zubair (he/him): Ambassador
Bachelor of Science in Biology

Talha is a 2nd-year student at the Faculty of Science, majoring in Biology and aiming to concentrate in Cell and Developmental Biology. When visiting his hometown village, Talha noticed farmers using harmful chemicals for crop cultivation since Bangladesh’s economy is majorly dependent on agriculture. He researched how soil microorganisms can affect seed germination and plant growth in a microbiology lab, founding an agro-biotech startup for accelerating sustainable agriculture. He has represented Bangladesh as a youth delegate at COP28, presenting his research at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week and won a 100K prize grant for his startup. In his free time, Talha loves hiking and exploring Vancouver, wildlife photography, watching movies or trying out a new extreme sport!

 


Tanay Suresh

Tanay Suresh (he/him): Ambassador
Bachelor of Arts in Gender, Race, Sexuality and Social Justice + Psychology

Tanay Suresh is a South-Indian (Tamil) settler pursuing his undergraduate degree in Gender, Race, Sexuality and Social Justice (GRSJ) and Psychology. He was raised primarily in Singapore, and now lives and learns on the ancestral, occupied, and yet to be returned territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm people. His interests lie in public policy, understanding of transnational solidarities, and community-engaged action towards social justice. He loves to have conversations about his current favourite reads and niche obsessions. In his free time, he loves hiking, going to the beach, and horse riding! 

 


 

Climate Wellbeing Journey

Check out what the ambassadors were doing by clicking on any destination point!
​The following visualization may not display correctly on smaller screens. You may have a better experience on a desktop or laptop.


Climate Wellbeing Journey


 

Sustainable Transportation Cohort

Expand to see individual ambassador profiles


Ashley Smyth

Ashley Smyth (she/her): Ambassador
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science + Asian Studies

Ashley is a 3rd-year Political Science and Asian Studies double-major with a focus on comparative environmental policy, also pursuing a Certificate of Climate Studies and Action. She loves bouldering, drinking tea and coffee, and could not be more thrilled to foster city-wide discussions and advocate for more sustainable communities with her fellow Ambassadors!

 

 


Alex Xia

Alex Xia (he/him): Ambassador
Bachelor of Science in Natural Resources

Alex is a second-year Urban Forestry student in the Faculty of Forestry. He joined the Sustainable Transportation cohort, eager to inspire more planet-friendly forms of transportation at UBC and beyond. Since middle school, he has been passionate about implementing solutions to reduce emissions and waste, and as a Sustainability Ambassador, he is looking forward to working with community partners to craft resources that empower students to make sustainable choices in getting around. In his free time, Alex likes to play board games, explore the city, and munch on healthy snacks!
 

 


Ariana Campoverde

Ariana Leon Campoverde (she/her): Ambassador
Bachelor of Design in Architecture, Landscape Architecture, and Urbanism

Ariana is a third-year student pursuing a Bachelor of Design in Architecture, Landscape Architecture, and Urbanism, with a Minor in Urban Studies. Born and raised in Ecuador, she developed a deep passion for sustainability, nature conservation, and social equity from a young age. Since she was eleven, she has volunteered with organizations worldwide, working to empower vulnerable communities, improve the quality of life, and advance sustainability and wildlife conservation. Her experiences have shaped a strong commitment to environmental and social impact. Through the Ambassadors program, she aims to promote awareness, engagement, and action on sustainability, climate resilience, and community well-being.

 


Bhaarvi JoshiBhaarvi Joshi (she/her): Ambassador
Bachelor of Arts

Bhaarvi Joshi, who also goes by the name Vi, is in her second year at UBC as an Arts student. Planning to major in Political Science, Vi joined the Sustainability Ambassadors program to learn about how local and global political and economic systems intersect to exacerbate climate change. She is passionate about understanding the issues we face regarding sustainability and contributing through local action to resolve them. As a commuter, Vi is looking forward to meeting and working with like-minded peers to improve the public transportation system, making it more reliable and accessible to all. 

 

 


Cal Rosete

Cal Rosete (they/them): Ambassador
Master of Science in Neuroscience + BSc in Behavioural Neuroscience

Cal is a Master's student in Neuroscience, researching how the immune system contributes to psychiatric pathology in post-mortem human brain tissue. Outside of the lab, you can find Cal cycling through the streets of Vancouver and volunteering with Vision Zero Vancouver, where they advocate for safer road infrastructure. They care deeply about removing barriers to active transportation and envision a Vancouver where safety and convenience are never a deterrent to sustainable transportation, such as walking, rolling, biking, and transit.
 

 


Diego Martinez

Diego Arturo Chipres Martinez (he/him): Ambassador
Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sciences

Diego is a second-year international student from Querétaro, Mexico. He is pursuing a major in Environmental Science and a minor in Urban Studies, along with a Certificate in Climate Studies and Action. His interests centre on urban sustainability, particularly in the context of developing countries facing the challenges of climate change. As part of the Sustainability Ambassadors Program, he’s excited to learn more about sustainable transportation and other ways to make cities more fair, resilient, and connected, while also helping to grow a stronger culture of climate action at UBC.
 

 


Griffin Larson

Griffin Larson (he/him): Ambassador
Bachelor of Science in Applied Biology

Griffin is a second-year student majoring in Applied Animal Biology. Growing up on the Puget Sound, he loves exploring tide pools, learning about West Coast wildlife, and is passionate about preserving biodiversity when faced with a changing climate. He hopes to learn and encourage others about how we can adjust our daily habits to create a more sustainable world.

 

 


Helia JavedaniHelia Javedani (she/her): Ambassador
Bachelor of Applied Science in Civil Engineering

Helia is a fourth-year Civil Engineering student at UBC. After immigrating to Canada and growing up in Coquitlam, on kʷikʷəƛ̓əm traditional, ancestral, and unceded lands (historically shared with the q̓ic̓əy̓ and other Coast Salish Peoples), she developed a love for nature and the environment. In her free time, she enjoys photography, painting, camping, and being outdoors. Helia is passionate about integrating sustainability into engineering design and giving back to her community through volunteering and mentorship. As a UBC Sustainability Ambassador, she is dedicated to promoting sustainable transportation for youth and young adults. 
 

 


John NI

John Ni (they/them): Ambassador
PhD Candidate in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology + BSC in Biochemistry

John is a graduate student researching influenza mechanisms and therapeutics. Since moving to Vancouver, they have loved the city's access to nature and want to better engage with the community. Having an interest in efficient and livable city design, they are excited to learn more about supporting sustainable transportation use. 

 

 


Andy Yue

Junfeng (Andy) Yue (he/him): Ambassador
Bachelor of Design in Architecture, Landscape Architecture, and Urbanism

Andy is an international student coming from Beijing to study on the traditional, ancestral and unceded territory of the Musqueam people. Driven by an interest in studying architecture, he discovered the environmental impacts of design in IB Environmental Systems and Societies. Hence, he is committed to addressing climate crises through interdisciplinary and sustainable design. He also hopes to use art as a tool to enhance awareness about the climate crisis and encourage public participation in climate action by being an Ambassador. In his free time, you will spot him on the grass field playing Quadball or exploring new cooking recipes.

 


Sanjanaa Molaka

Sanjanaa Molaka (she/her): Ambassador
Bachelor of Commerce

Sanjanaa Molaka is a Bachelor of Commerce student at the UBC Sauder School of Business. She is passionate about the intersection of business and sustainability, with a particular interest in sustainable supply chain development and innovative approaches to sustainable commuting for young people. Sanjanaa is motivated by the opportunity to explore how business strategy can create meaningful environmental impact while advancing efficiency and equity. She also enjoys walking around the UBC campus, connecting with people, and finding inspiration in the natural and diverse environment that surrounds her.
 

 


Sultana Razia

Sultana Razia (she/her): Ambassador
Bachelor of Arts in Economics + Cognitive Systems

Sultana is a fourth-year student double-majoring in Economics and Cognitive Systems. She is passionate about shifting narratives and policies so that sustainability is framed as both an environmental and a social justice issue. She cares deeply about how climate change disproportionately affects marginalized groups. Whether through her advocacy in student governance, research, or nonprofit work, she is driven to highlight systemic barriers that prevent true sustainability from being achieved.

 


 

Sustainable Transportation Journey

Check out what the ambassadors were doing by clicking on any destination point!
​The following visualization may not display correctly on smaller screens. You may have a better experience on a desktop or laptop.


Sustainable Transportation Journey


 

Environmental Justice Cohort

Expand to see individual ambassador profiles


Fadhil FatriaFadhil Fatria (he/him): Ambassador
Bachelor of Arts in Environment & Sustainability

Fadhil is a third-year undergraduate student pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Environment and Sustainability with a minor in Geographic Information Science and Geographic Computation. His studies focus on the relationships between people, landscapes, and ecosystems. In particular, he is interested in conservation, sustainability, and the role of data and computation in understanding environmental change. Fadhil is passionate about exploring innovative approaches to global environmental challenges and is especially drawn to the integration of geospatial technologies in sustainability research. Outside of academics, he enjoys connecting with communities and sharing knowledge to inspire collaborative solutions for a more sustainable future.
 

 


Hinako Naganuma

Hinako Naganuma (she/her): Ambassador
Bachelor of Arts in Environment & Sustainability

Hinako is a third-year student majoring in Geography: Environment and Sustainability, and learning the multifaceted nature of climate change. Within the field, she is particularly interested in climate justice, food security, political ecology, and systems thinking. As a Sustainability Ambassador, she aims to learn local perspectives/knowledge on climate change and engage with local communities to take climate action together.

 

 


Jenavieve Gan

Jenavieve Gan (she/her): Ambassador
Bachelor of Applied Science in Environmental Engineering

Jenavieve is an Environmental Engineering student who joined the Environmental Justice Cohort to center the human and social dimensions of sustainability—areas she finds underrepresented in traditional engineering. Her technical training equips her to design efficient systems, but she believes true sustainability must also advance equity, inclusion, and community resilience. She is especially interested in approaches that empower marginalized communities and turn climate solutions into tangible social benefits. As a Sustainability Ambassador, she aims to bridge engineering design with social responsibility, translating data and design into accessible advocacy and collaborative action. Through the cohort, she hopes to deepen her understanding of justice-focused frameworks and help shape climate solutions that are both scientifically rigorous and socially just.

 


Jindong Liu

Jindong Liu (he/him): Ambassador
Bachelor of Science in Applied Biology

Jindong is a 4th-year undergraduate student at the University of British Columbia, majoring in Sustainable Agriculture and Environment. Through his academic work and internships with agricultural institutions, he has observed the growing challenges of environmental degradation and the lack of awareness surrounding its urgency. Motivated by this issue, Jindong is committed to engaging in research and advocacy that address the intersection of food systems and environmental health. He views environmental justice as an essential pathway toward both ecological resilience and social well-being. By joining this cohort, he hopes to broaden his perspectives, contribute his knowledge, and learn from peers who share a dedication to building more sustainable and equitable futures.

 


Jocko GartonJocko Garton (he/him): Ambassador
Bachelor of Science in Natural Resources

Jocko is a second-year student majoring in Natural Resource Conservation in the Faculty of Forestry. He plans to use his education to pursue a career in wildlife habitat management and conservation. Growing up in the Kootenay Valley, Jocko has developed a strong connection to the local ecosystems and is passionate about seeing them maintained for future generations through sustainable practices and environmental stewardship. In addition to caring for BC forests, Jocko hopes he can take his knowledge to other places around the world and continue to learn about different ecosystems after graduation.

 

 


Maisha Morshed

Maisha Morshed (she/her): Ambassador
Bachelor of Science in Mathematics

Maisha is a second-year student specializing in Mathematics, studying as a Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Scholar. She is the first Bangladeshi to serve on the Youth Advisory Council of the Jane Goodall Institute of Canada, where she advocates for Royal Bengal Tiger conservation and indigenous stewardship. Maisha is the founder of InfrastructHER, a venture partnered with Innovation UBC that seeks to redefine Canadian infrastructure by integrating BIPOC and immigrant voices into decision-making processes. She also represents UBC as its only undergraduate virtual observer delegate for COP30, focusing on youth engagement, education, and climate adaptation. Maisha is passionate about addressing complex social and environmental issues through mathematical frameworks. She combines her emotional and logical sides to look beyond binaries of right and wrong, finding clarity in nuance. Outside her work, she loves singing, travelling, and creating documentaries that reflect her lived experiences.


Midori Tachiiri

Midori Tachiiri (she/her): Ambassador
Bachelor of Arts in Environment & Sustainability

Midori is a third-year student majoring in Environment and Sustainability. She is also pursuing her passion for climate justice through the Certificate in Climate Studies and Action program. As an international student, Midori hopes to bring a global perspective to discussions while learning about the unique values and challenges of the community. She looks forward to engaging in hands-on projects that connect closely with the local community, applying the academic learning to real-world environmental challenges, and contributing to meaningful, lasting change.
 

 


Sally Liu

Sally Liu (she/her): Ambassador
Bachelor of Arts in Environment & Sustainability

Sally is a third-year student majoring in Environment and Sustainability and minoring in GIS & Geographical Computation. She is passionate about climate justice, social justice, and justice for non-human species. She believes that meaningful environmental solutions must centre equity, Indigenous knowledge systems, and the interconnectedness of human and ecological well-being. Sally is particularly interested in how environmental change influences relationships between wildlife and people, and how grassroots community actions can support a more just and sustainable future. By joining the Sustainability Ambassador program, she hopes to help the local community achieve deeper engagement with place-based environmental stewardship and contribute to reconciliation-focused conservation efforts.

 


Sanchia Sehan

Sanchia Sehan (she/her): Ambassador
Bachelor of Science in Atmospheric Science

Sanchia is an Indonesian third-year student studying Atmospheric Science with a minor in Data Science. Towards her degree, she recognizes that humans play a bigger role within the environment. Joining Sustainability Ambassador's Environmental Justice cohort is her effort to understand more that, especially in Vancouver, the city she is now a settler in. She looks forward to contributing to the programs in the cohort. Outside of campus and studying, she enjoys swimming, reading, and travelling.
 

 


Spencer Nigoghossian-Graves

Spencer Nigoghossian-Graves (he/him): Ambassador
Bachelor of Science in Natural Resources

Spencer is passionate about creating better living environments for everyone, whether that be through local water quality improvements, increased community outreach, or large-scale shifts toward sustainable materials. Coming from a laboratory research background, he’s now exploring how to support sustainability goals through more community-oriented approaches. 

 

 


Sydney Littler

Sydney Littler (she/her): Ambassador
Bachelor of Science in Geographical Sciences

Sydney is a 3rd-year geographical sciences student, deeply passionate about environmental advocacy and fostering equitable, systemic change both for human and non-human communities. Born in Arizona and raised across the PNW,  she has developed a deep relationship with diverse Western landscapes, shaping her values in environmental reciprocity and care. She is committed to grounding future practice in place, mindfully engaging local communities with the land and its history. Her studies focus on spatial analysis and the intersections of environmental and social justice, and she loves finding ways to translate complex ideas into accessible public information. As an Ambassador, she looks forward to transforming environmental goals into tangible action, on campus and beyond, fostering relationships between people and places.

 


Ryota NishidaRyota Nishida (he/him): Ambassador
Diploma in Accounting

As an Ambassador in the Environmental Justice Cohort, Ryota explores the intersection of climate action, community engagement, and environmental justice in False Creek.  Alongside studies in accounting, he is dedicated to advancing sustainability through collaboration and education. His work focuses on supporting community-based learning and marine rehabilitation projects in partnership with False Creek Friends and the Raincoast  Conservation Foundation. Passionate about helping create cities that are both environmentally resilient and equitable for all residents,  Ryota aims to foster collaboration between communities and deepen public understanding of the cultural and ecological histories that shape Vancouver’s relationship with water and land.

 


 

Environmental Justice Journey

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Environmental Justice Journey


 

Youth Climate Ambassadors Project (YCAP) Cohort

Expand to see individual ambassador profiles


Angela Qin

Angela Qin (she/her): Ambassador
Bachelor of Science in Food, Nutrition, and Health

Angela Qin is currently a first-year student studying Food, Nutrition, and Health in the Faculty of Land and Food Systems. Her passions lie in public health, where she hopes to promote health and well-being through sustainable food systems. Through the Sustainability Ambassadors program, she hopes to work with like-minded peers to learn more about the intersections between sustainability, the environment, and the community. Angela is super excited to work with the YCAP team and to empower youth about taking climate action in their communities.
 

 


Lina Nguyen

Lina Nguyen (she/her): Ambassador
Bachelor of International Economics

Anh Truc Ly (Lina) Nguyen is a second-year student in the International Economics program (BIE). She had various experiences with environmental projects, clubs and associations. With her passion for preserving a sustainable environment and her study journey in Economics, she wants to find ways to harmonize between developing economic status and maintaining its sustainability. She hopes that as a part of the YCAP Cohort, she could make contributions to her surroundings and inspire the youth to join hands through practical projects. In her free time, she loves watching K-dramas, listening to music and crocheting.
 

 


Jolie Abo Sfeer

Jolie Abo-Sfeer (she/her): Ambassador
Bachelor of Science in Food, Nutrition, and Health

Jolie Abo-Sfeer is in her third year, completing a degree in Food, Nutrition and Health Sciences within the Faculty of Land and Food Systems, with an interest in pursuing a healthcare-related career in the future. She recognizes that she is a student learning on unceded, ancestral, and traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations. Jolie has a strong interest in learning more about health, sustainability, and the role of food systems in shaping individuals' well-being, both physical and emotional. In her spare time, she enjoys dancing, weight lifting, reading, and spending time with her friends. 

 


Keerthi MahadevanKeerthi Mahadevan (she/her): Ambassador
Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting

Keerthi Mahadevan is a fourth-year Bachelor of Commerce student at UBC Sauder, specializing in accounting and concentrating in sustainability and social impact. She loves getting involved at the intersection of accounting and sustainability, whether that’s through greenhouse gas reporting, life-cycle assessments, or impact investing. Her passion lies in quantifying climate impact, so measurable goals and plans can be put into action. When she’s not studying or working on projects, you can usually find her playing video games, riding her RipStik, binging mystery and crime shows, or travelling. She loves connecting with people from all around the world! 
 

 


Seoin Heo

Seoin Heo (she/her): Ambassador
Master of Arts in Health, Outdoor, and Physical Education

Seoin Heo is an MA student in the Department of Curriculum & Pedagogy, Faculty of Education at UBC. Using arts-based, participatory methods such as photovoice, her research centers youth, inclusive PE, health inequalities and spatiality. A former secondary physical education teacher from South Korea, she now coaches multi-sport programs and collaborates with schools and communities. As a Sustainability Ambassador (YCAP), Seoin connects climate and health and advocates for climate justice through actionable, equity-minded initiatives. Beyond campus, she recharges through exercises - hiking, dance, tennis, and volleyball - and travel photography. She aims to help build healthier, inclusive spaces for all.

 


Tess Yaginuma

Tess Yaginuma (she/her): Ambassador
Bachelor of Science in Natural Resources

Tess Yaginuma is in her 2nd year of the Natural Resources Conservation degree program within the Faculty of Forestry. As a UBC Sustainability Ambassador, she works on the Youth Climate Ambassador Project cohort on the Volunteer Recruitment team. She hopes to inspire the younger generation to be more engaged with sustainability efforts and educated on topics of climate change. After graduation, she wants to work as a wildlife conservationist. She's originally from San Francisco, California, so she misses her dog and two cats from home dearly. She loves the rain, reading and going to Wreck Beach on the UBC campus!

 


Xuqianqian Cao

Xuqianqian Cao (she/they): Ambassador
Bachelor of Science in Natural Resources

Xu is a third-year UBC Forestry Bioeconomy Science and Technology (BEST!) student who is enthusiastic about fostering climate actions and dialogues. To better understand the current state of climate change knowledge, Xu is currently learning about applying GIS/remote sensing tools for observation of the Earth’s climate from space. She likes to integrate the perspective of sustainability/renewability regarding carbon footprint and embodied carbon into her study about biobased products. Their passion for nature, poetry, philosophy, art and travelling awaits many stories to be heard and told.  
 

 


Yoyo Wu

Yoyo Wu (she/her): Ambassador
Bachelor of Kinesiology in Multidisciplinary Science

Yoyo Wu is a fourth-year student in the UBC School of Kinesiology, pursuing a Bachelor of Kinesiology in Multidisciplinary Science. As a UBC Sustainability Ambassador, she contributes to the Youth Climate Ambassador Project (YCAP) by facilitating workshops designed to empower the next generation of climate leaders. Yoyo has experience in research support, community health, and sustainability initiatives, and is passionate about promoting wellness, equity, and environmental responsibility through education and engagement. In her free time, Yoyo enjoys hiking, watching TV shows, and walking her dog.
 

 


 

YCAP Journey

Check out what the ambassadors were doing by clicking on any destination point!
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YCAP Journey


 

Ambassador Testimonials