Keynote Speaker

Dean Rohman is a third-year Political Science student at the University of British Columbia. As a Bangladeshi-Canadian, Dean’s commitment to climate justice is rooted in lived experience – his family in Bangladesh has faced displacement due to rising seas and extreme weather. He is passionate about preserving cultures and oral histories at risk of being lost to environmental change. Dean is a UBC Sustainability Ambassador and previously worked at West Coast Environmental Law, where he advanced equitable climate solutions through community-centered engagement.

Workshop Speaker

Stewart Cohen is a Senior Researcher with over 35 years of experience at Environment and Climate Change Canada, where he has led pioneering work on climate change impacts and adaptation. He has played a key role in both national and international climate science efforts, serving on Canadian and U.S. climate change assessments, and contributing to the work of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) since 1992 — a body recognized with the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize.

Workshop Speaker

Grace McNamee is a Psychology and Sociology student at the University of British Columbia, where she combines her passion for Canadian policy with her interest in sustainability and social development. As a Senior Residence Advisor and a member of UBC’s Sustainability Ambassadors Program, Grace brings a people-centered approach to leadership and community-building. She is particularly passionate about how environments shape individuals and is committed to creating spaces that foster creativity, equity, and wellbeing.

Workshop Speaker

Issa Hassan is a PMP-certified Civil Engineer and LEED Green Associate with over 14 years of consulting experience in heavy civil infrastructure, manufacturing, and GHG management. As VP of Consulting at Green Sky Sustainability, he has led 100+ GHG engagements across Western Canada and holds a diploma in GHG Measurement, Reporting, and Verification. With expertise in Life Cycle Assessment and a passion for permaculture, Issa applies a systems-thinking lens to sustainability and climate resilience.