MEET THE 2025 LOCAL PATHWAYS FELLOWS

Meet previous fellows

The 2025 Local Pathways Fellowship (LPF) unites a vibrant and diverse group of 124 emerging leaders from 96 cities. Driven by a shared dedication, these fellows are committed to fostering urban spaces that are inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.

**CHUKWUKA OKWESHINE**
*Lagos, Nigeria*
Chukwuka Okweshine is a recycler, environmentalist, and social developer committed to sustainability and waste management. As founder of Lambano Recycle Regency, he has five+ years of experience recycling PET, HDPE, LDPE, PVC, and PS plastics while educating communities on waste solutions.
Originally from Delta State and based in Lagos, he has worked in medical, pharmaceutical, and chemical waste industries and managed landfill operations. He also leads a nonprofit focused on recycling, drug-free programs, and skills development. Seeking partnerships to expand Lambano, he aims to drive climate education and turn environmental challenges into opportunities.

**SAID TAWAB SADAT**
*Kandahar,Afghanistan*
Said Tawab Sadat, a GIS graduate from Kabul Polytechnic University, began his career as a Teaching Assistant, supporting GIS courses. He later contributed to community development projects with international NGOs, gaining valuable experience in sustainable solutions. Now working with UNFAO-AFG, he focuses on rural area revitalization, improving infrastructure and promoting sustainability in distant villages. Committed to lifelong learning, he believes that technology, when used effectively, can drive rapid progress and transformative change.

**ISSHACK MUTALA MOHAMMED**
*Accra,Ghana*
Isshack Mutalla Mohammed is an Energy Economist and he is currently reading Engineering [Energy and Sustainability Policy] at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in Ghana. He served as the Youth Minister for Energy at the Youth Empowerment Consortium and as the Presidential Advisor to the National Union of Ghana Students President. He is a climate and green transition advocate at YOUNGO, the official youth and children constituency of UNFCCC, Over the years he has been championing youth leadership, global development, and sustainable urban growth.

**YUSSIF SULEMANA**
*Paris,France*
Yussif Sulemana is a Mastercard Foundation Scholar and a student of Governing the Large Metropolis (GLM) at Sciences Po, Paris. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Development Planning from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Ghana. He is a civic leader by passion, training, and practice. He is also an alumnus of the Aspire Leadership Program (ASP) and the Young African Leadership Initiative (YALI) in West Africa. Yussif champions the SDGs through advocacy for behavioral change and inclusive urban governance.

**AKSHAT CHADHA**
*Delhi,India*

Akshat Chadha is an architect and urban designer shaping cities that prioritize people, sustainability, and cultural identity. His expertise spans large-scale urban projects, including riverfront revitalization, transit-oriented development, and the creation of vibrant public spaces. With a strong focus on walkable neighbourhoods, water-sensitive cities, and resilient urban environments, he integrates local area planning and form-based codes to design future-ready communities.
Recognized as a LinkedIn Top Voice in Urban Design (2024), Akshat believes the best way to experience a city is the most natural way—on foot, by bike, or by transit.

**BLANCA RINCON DE ARELLANO**
*Barcelona, Spain*
Blanca is a City Finance Specialist at the NetZeroCities Initiative of European's Comission Horizon program and supports Spanish and Portuguese cities in accessing finance for urban decarbonisation projects. With six years of experience in international organisations, the not-for-profit and the financial sectors, her expertise spans municipal climate finance, innovative financing mechanisms and private sector engagement to advance sustainable transitions in urban contexts. Previously, Blanca held roles at C40's City Finance Programme, where she collaborated with local governments, international organisations, and financial institutions to unlock climate finance for projects addressing clean energy, sustainable transport, and climate adaptation. Blanca is fluent in Spanish, English, French, German, and Portuguese and holds degrees in International Political Economy and Internationals Affairs from the London School of Economics, Sciences Po Paris and the Freie Universität Berlin.

**DINA ABDELHADY**
*Cairo,Egypt*
Dina is a master's graduate from Erasmus University Rotterdam, she studied urban management and development, specializing in Urban Housing, Equity, and Social Justice. Dina has worked as a consultant with UNESCO Cairo office, working on Education and Youth engagement and development programmes. She founded Alter initiative in 2020 to tackle emergency architecture and alternative housing using local and recyclable materials within contexts in crises. She is a part of the UNESCO ESD network and the EU Jeel Connect Egypt network.

**Kingsley omeje**
*Calgary, Canada*
Omeje Kingsley Chinecherem is a Master of GIS candidate at the University of Calgary, specializing in geospatial analysis, transit mapping, and data automation. Proficient in ArcGIS Pro, FME, Python, and SQL, he has supported urban planning and environmental projects through internships at the University of Calgary and the Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria. Passionate about public service, Kingsley leverages GIS technologies to enhance community initiatives, demonstrated through his role as Sustainability Vice Chair. His work emphasizes collaboration, GIS data analysis, and innovative solutions for sustainable urban development.

**SHRUTI SHAH**
*Singapore,Singapore*
Shruti Shah is an urban designer at Arup, committed to sustainability and resilience in city planning. With over five years of experience in Southeast Asia, she specializes in urban planning, stakeholder engagement, and inclusive design. A WELL Professional, she aims to create human-centric spaces that promote well-being. Through her volunteer work with Participate in Design, she fosters community-driven solutions that integrate diverse stakeholder needs.

**ILLUSTRIOUS EWHORLU**
*Malborough,Massachusetts*
Illustrious is a global citizen and U.S.-based sustainability professional with over 4 years of experience in advancing climate and sustainability initiatives across academic, research, and nonprofit organizations.
In 2013, he served as an Energy & Utilities Decarbonization Fellow at the University of New Hampshire, where he played a key role in developing a decarbonization roadmap to support the university’s 2050 net-zero emissions target.

**JULIE CHEVROLLIER**
*Helsinki, Finland*
Julie Chevrollier is an undergraduate student in Environmental Sciences at the University of Helsinki, Finland, specializing in Global Sustainability. Her interests extend to fostering partnerships for environmental justice and biodiversity conservation. She previously worked as an intern at the Watch and Jewellery Initiative 2030 in Geneva, which aims to reduce inequalities and promote low-carbon emissions in the business industry. Julie has been committed to shaping a more sustainable future through her role as a volunteer in several associations and NGOs during her academic journey.

**TRANG TRAN**
*Hanoi,Vietnam*
Trang is an environmental educator and co-founder of The Forest Vietnam, an organization dedicated to reconnecting urban children and youth with nature. She works to promote environmental awareness, urban sustainability, and community-driven green initiatives in Vietnam's cities.

**NAJMUNA LAKSHITA**
*Jakarta ,Indonesia*
Najmuna is an urban planner dedicated to advancing urban inclusivity for all. For two years, as a consultant for the Ministry of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/The National Land Agency of Indonesia, she played a technical role in the groundbreaking efforts to grant legal recognition of Indigenous land rights in Indonesia, which began in 2023. With deep expertise in Indigenous land administration, urban planning, and regional development, she is committed to shaping policies that integrate Indigenous voices, ensuring sustainable and truly inclusive urban growth.

**CAMILA DA COSTA**
Sao Polo,Brazil
Camila is a Public Management Trainee at the Secretariat of Climate Change in São Paulo City Hall, with over four years of experience in city governments, including Uberlândia City Hall. She holds a degree in International Relations and founded the Uberlândia Hub of the Global Shapers Community. With over 10 years of volunteering, she advocates for inclusive public policies and sustainable cities. Camila is a fellow of the Sustainability Leadership Program by United People Global and the Aspire Leaders Program by the Harvard Aspire Institute.

**ALEXANDROS KARANTZAS-MARKOU**
*Athens, Greece*
Alex is a visionary innovator and strategist specializing in intellectual property, sustainability, and the future of payments. A distinguished fellow of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, he has collaborated with global leaders like Airbus and Accenture. With expertise in business economics, Alex is dedicated to shaping transformative solutions that drive innovation, economic growth, and sustainable impact.

**Marielle Laurein Ferma**
*Mendez,Phillippines*
Marielle Laurein Ferma is a Peacebuilder, and a graduate of Foreign Service. She is now pursuing a Masters Degree in Sustainable Leadership and Governance. Inspired by her father, a former overseas worker, Marielle developed a deep passion for international politics, culture, and human rights. Known for her ability to see the best in people, she advocates for individuals to recognize and harness their unique gifts in service of a better world.

IJEOMA NWIGWE

Abuja,Nigeria

PRECIOUS IJEOMA NWIGWE is an English graduate (BSc & MSc (Discourse Analysis Major) and a social media specialist who leverages digital communication to drive global development. Passionate about the SDGs, international policy, and grassroots impact, I use strategic storytelling and brand visibility to solve communication challenges, bridge global initiatives with local communities, and foster meaningful change.

**MWANARAFA MCHIMILE**
*Dar es Salaam*
Mwanaarafa Mchimile is an urban planner, environmentalist, and researcher specializing in spatial planning and visualization. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Urban Development and Environmental Management and has three years of experience in the field of urban planning. Mwanaarafa collaborates with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and municipalities to promote sustainable development in urban areas. Additionally, she is currently researching emergency urbanism in Africa particularly in Tanzania, focusing on how to build resilient cities through culture, ar culture collective memory.ulture, art, and memory.

**SILVIA GAZZOLA**
*Milan,Italy*
Silvia Gazzola is a social innovator with expertise in youth empowerment, community building, and participatory processes. She holds a master's in Political and Social Sciences, focusing on integrating ecological and social goals into public policies. With experience in project management and group facilitation, she has worked with international NGOs and local institutions to advance youth engagement and inclusion.

**SHREENITHI LAKSHMI NARASIMHAN**
*New York,USA*
Shreenithi Lakshmi Narasimhan is an award-winning leader in renewable energy, urban sustainability, and climate policy, driving transformative change at the intersection of clean energy, infrastructure, and equitable urban development. As Chair of IEEE Young Professionals CSI NY, she spearheads high-impact initiatives in energy transition, regulatory reform, and decarbonization, shaping the future of sustainable cities.
She is the founder of the Global Climate Collective, championing climate resilience, energy equity, and sustainable urban development. Through this initiative, she mobilizes experts, young professionals, and grassroots communities to implement scalable solutions addressing urban sustainability challenges. A trusted advisor to policymakers and industry leaders, she has played a pivotal role in bridging the gap between technology, policy, and community-driven solutions. With expertise spanning clean energy integration, urban mobility, and sustainable infrastructure, she is redefining how cities implement SDGs, ensuring a just and resilient urban future.

**LINCOLN CHENG**
*London,United Kingdom*
Lincoln Cheng is a UNODC YouthLED Advisory Board Member, President of UCL United Nations Association and Under Secretary General at London International MUN. As a Policy Brief Team Lead at Global Centre for Risk and Innovation Think Tank, he focuses on the Water-Energy-Food-Health (WEFH) nexus, driving evidence-based policy recommendations submitted to the UN. He has attended 98+ forums, including the Summit of the Future, speaking at UNESCO x GAUC Global Youth Summit for Net Zero Future and more, and is passionate about fostering ethical governance and sustainable urban development. He is also formerly Vice President for the Bentham Brooks Institute Thinktank at UCL. Lincoln is pursuing a Philosophy, Politics, and Economics with Data Science degree at UCL.

**LAMIS EL KHATEIB**
*Cairo,Egypt*
Lamis Elkhatieb is an environmental urban planner, policy specialist, and climate expert who helps cities enhance governance and quality of life. In 2025, she was selected as a Resilience Planning Expert under the Climate Resilience Planning Initiative at the International Society on City and Regional Planners. She is the research coordinator and project lead for the Loss and Damage Youth Coalition. She holds an MSc in Environmental Futures with Climate Change from the University of Essex in the UK and a BSc in Environmental Architecture and Urbanism from Ain Shams University in Egypt. A recipient of the GREAT Scholarship for Sustainable Futures under the British Council's Climate Connection program associated with COP26, Lamis collaborates with global organisations on climate finance, sustainable urban development, and just transition strategies.

**NAMRATHA MURUGESHAN**
*London,United Kingdom*
Namratha Murugeshan is a lawyer and policy researcher pursuing her Master's in Law at LSE. She was a Research Fellow at the Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy, India, working on urban governance. She contributed to reports on improving urban accessibility for women and persons with disabilities, including one for the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office. Her research focuses on legal and policy reforms to make cities inclusive, accessible, and sustainable.

**MUHAMMAD UMAIR**
*Islamabad,Pakistan*
Muhammad Umair Khan is a passionate environmentalist, researcher, and climate activist, dedicated to sustainable development and youth empowerment. He is the Founder and CEO of the Native Youth Club for Climate Change (NYCCC), a nationwide movement with over 3,600 young volunteers actively engaged in climate action across Pakistan.
Umair is currently pursuing an MS in Environmental Sciences, equipping himself with advanced knowledge and research expertise to tackle pressing environmental challenges. His commitment to climate advocacy has earned him key leadership roles, including serving as the Country Contact Point for Local Conference of Youth (LCOY) 2025 Pakistan under the UNFCCC framework and as a Board Member of the Climate Action Network South Asia (CANSA) – Pakistan Chapter, where he contributes to regional climate policies and initiatives.

**CALEB ISOE**
*Nairobi,Kenya*
Caleb Machogu Isoe is a distinctive catalytic climate Finance specialist leveraging economies of scale in his Bachelors Degree in Renewable energy Systems. He’s also a finalist in post-graduate Diploma in Environmental Studies in Science Policy, that has underscored his profound enthusiasm in Climate Adaptation Acceleration and carbon neutrality in the revving-up green hydrogen’s multi-sectoral value chain. Caleb was in the Youth Senate Council that executed the epoch African Climate Summit under the patronage of Kenya Young Parliamentarians Association,KYPA, where he’s been a resolute youth legislature agitating for local communities inclusion in sustainability workshops. He’s an SDG advocate dedicated to expediting the progress of the global goals with youths from Local Universities across Kenya and Horn of Africa under the auspices of Pan African Youth Convention,PAYC, where he’s a notable, resource mobilizer. Moreover, he’s also a program manager at 5G Mokki Tech-space : an "eduTech" ,education technology, Learning platform that has been equipping students requisite skills for the job market. In conclusion, Caleb is committed to fostering ambitious collaborations in sustainable development because when we unite and act we deliver.

**MERNA ALZURIKAT**
*Zarqa, Jordan*
Merna is a Jordanian Architect and Urban Planner with an MSc in Urban Science, Policy, and Planning from Singapore. With six years of experience in design, consulting, and sustainable urban development across the Middle East, she is committed to driving transformative urban solutions. Passionate about policy innovation and community-centered planning, she leverages data-driven strategies and interdisciplinary approaches to create resilient, future-ready cities that prioritize sustainability, inclusivity, and social impact.

EDWIN LAI

Sydney,Australia

Edwin is a transport planner and engineer who is passionate about improving the connectivity and liveability of communities. At Jacobs, he works closely with governments and organisations across Australia and New Zealand to decarbonise the transport sector through sustainable technologies. Edwin is dedicated to empowering youth perspectives through his roles at the Australian Institute of Traffic Planning and Management and Smart Cities Council.

**AMIR NJAIMI**
*Tunis, Tunisia*
Amir Njaimi is a Junior Architect Urbanist passionate about creating more inclusive and sustainable cities. He contributes to the implementation of various projects related to urban planning, resilience, and governance, collaborating with multiple stakeholders and partners. Holding a Master's degree in Architecture from the National School of Architecture of Tunis, Amir has developed strong skills in urban design and project management. His work focuses on integrating sustainable, inclusive, and resilient solutions into urban spaces, addressing current social, environmental, and economic challenges.

**CHARITY ADHIAMBO**
*Nairobi,Kenya*
Charity Adhiambo is a Community Health Specialist and Climate Change Champion, serving as the CEO of Najimudu Empowerment Initiative. She is a leading advocate for climate resilience, disability inclusion, and sustainable public health. Steering projects on SDG 3, 6, 11, and 13, she integrates eco-friendly solutions, public health promotion, and policy advocacy to drive impact. Her work fosters strategic partnerships, empowers youth, and advances sustainable cities and environmental justice.

**NOUR ALKHAYAT**
*Damascus, Syria*
Nour, an architect and urban designer, is dedicated to social sustainability, inclusive cities, and diversity. With a master's in urban design, she advocates for equality through participatory and universal design. Her dream is to rebuild inclusive and resilient communities, using design to promote social and spatial equity in post-war contexts. She believes in the power of collaboration and community engagement to create lasting change in urban spaces.

**CHILUFYA MULENGA**
*Lusaka,Zambia*
Chilufya Theresa Mulenga is a trailblazing AI enthusiast and a relentless advocate for gender equity in technology. With a proven track record of driving innovation in local communities, she's spent over eight years breaking barriers and inspiring change in the STEAM/ICT sector.
A passionate voice for digital rights and gender equality, Chilufya founded The ICT4Her Club to empower the next generation of female tech leaders. Her tireless efforts extend to the Internet Society Zambia chapter, where she champions accessible internet as a fundamental human right. As the Chapter Vice-President, Chilufya fearlessly leads the charge to connect the unconnected, ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital revolution.

**SUDHANSHU OJIHA**
*Bangalore,India*
Sudhanshu Ojha is a lecturer, climate advocate, and policy researcher focused on urban sustainability and climate resilience. He is part of Sustera Foundation’s Climate Leadership Program X Resilient Cities-Bangalore, working on urban hazards and sustainable urban planning. Engaged in COY19 at COP29, LCOY India 2024, and YOUNGO Cities Working Group, he advocates for equitable climate adaptation and youth-led urban policy. As a Local Pathways Fellow, he aims to drive inclusive, sustainable city solutions.

**JULIA JAHZEEL**
*Tegucigalpa, Honduras.*
Civil Engineer with experience in climate change adaptation, sustainable development and environmental management. She coordinates the Clean Air Honduras project, leading the first national air quality monitoring network. Specialized in waste management and circular economy, she has published on plastics and sustainability. Recognized by Forbes and awarded for her environmental impact, she promotes policies and climate education with a focus on equity and resilience.

JOANNA LAM

Chicago,US

Joanna Lam is a second-year student at Pomona College studying Asian Studies, Public Policy Analysis, and Economics. Her academic achievements and leadership potential have been recognized by the Posse Foundation and APIA Scholars. Currently, she coordinates the Rooftop Garden Project, a program dedicated to educating students about environmental stewardship and justice.

POWJ NYIBONG

Kampala,Uganda

Powj Nyibong is a student leader driven by curiosity and a passion for uncharted solutions to global challenges. Focused on empowering youth and rethinking urban development in Sub-Saharan Africa, she explores new perspectives across fields from architecture to economics and urban planning. She is dedicated to creating actionable insights that foster community-driven change and address pressing issues in Africa and beyond.

**AGBEWANOU EZECHIEL**
*Lome,Togo*
Ezechiel Agbewanou Soukou is a graduate of the African School of Architecture and Urban Planning (EAMAU) and a dedicated urban planner contributing to the advancement of urban planning at the Ministry of Urbanism. He also serves as an instructor at EAMAU, sharing his expertise and guiding the next generation of urban planning professionals. Ezechiel is known for his creativity, adaptability, and passion for learning, driving sustainable and culturally enriched urban spaces through his work. His dual role as a practitioner and educator allows him to blend practical experience with academic insight, promoting a thoughtful and innovative approach to urban development.

**HANU PRIYA**
*Cambridge, United Kingdom*
Hanu is a Doctoral Researcher in Engineering at the University of Cambridge, funded by the Cambridge University International Scholarship and EPSRC UK. She holds an MRes in Photonics from Cambridge, where she researched photonics for energy-efficient 6G communication. Her work spans Digital Twins, intelligent communication networks, energy systems, and climate action, collaborating with British Telecom, Siemens Energy, and the NHS UK. She is an AI Policy Fellow, contributes to tech policy with Cambridge Zero and the Cambridge Centre for Carbon Credits, and is a McKinsey Next Gen Women Leaders Fellow and UN Women UK CSW69 participant

ALBERTO AVILA NUNEZ
*Toluca, Mexico*
Alberto Avila Nuñez is an enthusiastic activist very interested in fighting against climate change with science and technology development. With a background in Energy Engineering and a Master in Sustainable Sciences, Beto (the nickname he likes) is trying to develop improvements for the public policies in the metropolitan area he lives in, specially in the topics related with renewable energy, massive and sustainable mobility alternatives. His interests are very related with trying to adapt technologies and practices to live better under future uncertain climate conditions, also developing new social and tech solutions for the problems. He has 7 years of experience in academy efforts in the UNAM and the UAEMex, public policy consultancy, led student initiatives, made science dissemination events and as an activist specially in the cyclist, and water conservation problems of the periurban side of the Toluca Valley Metropolitan Area.

**PARSVA SHAH**
*New York, United States*
Parsva Shah is a dedicated advocate for human rights and environmental policy. He has worked to assist wrongfully convicted individuals, advocate for the rights of those on death row, and champion the rights of undocumented migrants. He has presented at multiple conferences on U.S. militarism and climate policy and works on environmental initiatives in New York. Passionate about law and ethics, he aims to drive impactful change through advocacy.

**LINAH ELTAHIR**
*Durham, United States*
Linah Eltahir is a fresh electrical engineering graduate from the University of Medical Sciences and Technology (UMST) in Sudan. She is passionate about sustainability and renewable energy, focusing on innovative solutions to hardness clean energy and drive environmental impact. With a strong background in solar technology and energy systems. Linah is committed to advance sustainable practices and creating a greener future.

**JOSHUA ROSERO**
*Quito, Ecuador*
Joshua is an energy engineer with experience in both the oil & gas sector and renewable energy development. Hailing from Ecuador, a country commited to balancing fossil fuels with greener alternatives, he is dedicated to driving sustainable changes for societal progress. With three master's degrees—hydrocarbon production, renewable energies, and energy efficiency—Joshua is passionate about creating environmentally responsible energy solutions.

**HENRIQUE BORGES**
*Brasilia, Brazil*
Henrique is a Master's degree student in Architecture for Development, driven by his passion for humanitarian work and sustainability. As part of UNOPS, he has contributed to projects related to improving health and educational infrastructure, urbanization in vulnerable communities and international cooperation. Henrique also leads initiatives that promote the 2030 Agenda and advocates for greater youth participation in public policies.

**SAMIDHAA KAMBLI**
*Atlanta, USA*
Samidhaa is an Architect, Community Impact Scholar, and Urban Planner graduate from the University of Southern California. She has worked as a sustainability analyst, focusing on carbon-free building initiatives, urban mobility, and affordable housing. She is an Envision Sustainable Professional (Env-SP) with expertise in environmental impact analysis and policy planning who strives to create resilient, sustainable, and inclusive urban spaces for the community.

**ARUSHI SHUKLA**
*London, United Kingdom*
Arushi Shukla is a strategic foresight specialist with expertise in urban sustainability, risk analysis and human-centred design. A graduate of the Royal College of Art in Design Futures and a student at ETH Zurich’s Systemic Design Lab, she specialises in Regenerative Systems to advance SDG 11. Her award-winning project, M-Tiles, assists visually impaired individuals in navigation, promoting inclusive and sustainable urban solutions.

**GRACE KIMARU**
*Nyeri, Kenya*
Grace is an Urban Planner and Climate Advocate dedicated to building sustainable and climate-resilient communities. She holds a BSc in Urban and Regional Planning from Kenyatta University and has experience in urban development, environmental conservation, and public-private partnerships. As the Founder of Foster Green CBO, she leads initiatives in afforestation, climate literacy, and sustainable urban infrastructure, driving environmental sustainability and community empowerment. She is also an Ambassador at Africa Smart Cities Innovation Foundation and the Country Chair of the G100 Women in Sustainable Cities and Communities Wing, where she advocates for inclusive and sustainable urban development. Grace is passionate about transforming cities through innovative solutions that balance development, conservation, and economic empowerment, ensuring a greener and more resilient future.

**ADE BRIAN**
*Jakarta, Indonesia*
Ade is an environmental sustainability specialist from Indonesia, dedicated to advancing nature-based solutions for ecosystem restoration and resilience. As an International Project Officer at Reforest'Action, he collaborates with local communities and project implementers to support regenerative initiatives. He holds an academic background in Environmental Science and Engineering, as well as Soil Science and Land Resources. Additionally, Ade has actively contributed to organizations such as the Indonesia Resource Development Institute, Waste Solution Hub, and Youth for Climate Change Indonesia, among others. His passion extends to ecological management, agro-biodiversity landscape, urban nexus sustainability, food and water security, and the circular bioeconomy, with a strong focus on fostering inclusive community livelihoods. He firmly believes that strengthening collaboration across generations and sectors is essential to safeguarding the planet for future generations.

**SALUMU DOMINIC**
*Lodwar, Kenya*
Salumu Dominic Asani is a dedicated project manager, educator, and researcher passionate about sustainable development, environmental conservation, and community empowerment. With over five years of experience in project implementation, M&E, and research coordination, he has collaborated with organizations such as Boma, World Vision and LWF. Salumu strives to drive positive change through education, advocacy, and innovative sustainability solutions.

**IAN NGUGI**
*Kutus, Kenya*
Ian Ngugi holds a degree in Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Nairobi. He is also a musician and visual artist with expertise in spatial design, data analysis, and sustainable development. He has contributed to urban projects, climate resilience planning, and community engagement. Passionate about social equity, environmental sustainability, and creative expression, he seeks to merge art and urbanism to inspire change. As a Local Pathways Fellow, he aims to develop impactful solutions for resilient cities.

**JUDITH MWANGI**
*Nairobi, Kenya*
Judith Mwangi is a passionate engineer and the visionary CEO & Founder of The ASAL’s Women Initiative, empowering women in arid and semi-arid lands (ASAL) through sustainable programs. A KECTIL Fellow and PLP Scholar, she specializes in sustainable development, green engineering, and community empowerment across East and Central Africa. Judith combines technical expertise with a commitment to gender equality, leveraging innovation to build resilient communities.

**UMAIMA AHMED**
*Islamad,Pakistan*
Umaima Ahmed is a Research Officer in the Climate and Energy unit at the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). She holds a degree in International Economics from Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service in Qatar. During her time at Georgetown, she served as both President and Vice President of the university’s Sustainability Society. She has also completed sustainability-focused internships at prominent think tanks in Qatar and Pakistan.

**SHANNON CHOW**
*Vancouver, Canada*
Shannon is a master's student in Community and Regional Planning at UBC with a background in Urban Studies. She is an award-winning urban designer who has worked across urban and rural scales, focusing on community engagement and radical transformation. Passionate about the right to the city, she explores alternative models for rural economic development beyond conventional growth and spatial design where engagement processes respect residents' rights, fostering just and sustainable communities.

**NKANDU MUKUTU**
*Chongwe, Zambia*
Nkandu Mukutu is a dedicated Civil Engineer with a passion for sustainable infrastructure, environmental responsibility, and international affairs. With experience in construction, community work, and project management, she strives to create eco-friendly structures that seamlessly integrate innovation and modern aesthetics for a greener future.
As a youth volunteer for YOUNGGO in Southern Africa, she has played a key role in global climate discussions, including organizing COP meetings and leading sustainability initiatives in Zambia. She is also an active advocate for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), working to promote climate action, sustainable cities, and responsible resource management while developing solutions for a more resilient future.

**PAUL MAHERE**
*Dar es Salaam*
Paul is a young anthropologist with strong research skills, interested in understanding the connection between masculinity and the proliferation of road accidents among youth in developing countries. His focus is on exploring how gender norms influence risky behaviors and contribute to traffic accidents in urban settings. Committed to supporting sustainable development goals, Paul seeks solutions to improve public safety and promote gender equality in vulnerable communities.

**MONIBULLAH YAQUBI**
*Instanbul, Turkey*
Monibullah Yaqubi is an architect and sustainability advocate studied bachelor's and master’s degrees at İstanbul Gelişim University. Actively using BIM and digital technologies, believe that; both have great role in enhancing efficiency and sustainability in architecture. Mr. Yaqubi, as president of the university's Sustainability Club, he leads SDG-focused initiatives. He is an entrepreneur and social activist, he works with municipalities and communities to promote eco-friendly urban development.

**VARSHA VIVEK**
Thrissur, India
Varsha Vivek is an urban planner, architect, and academic with experience in consultancy, research, and teaching. Specializing in circular economy, waste management, and sustainable urban transitions, she integrates resource efficiency and regenerative design into urban resilience strategies.

**ANASTAZIA FURUTIA**
*Mwanza,Tanzania*
Anastazia David Furutia is a Tanzanian sustainability advocate transforming food systems and urban resilience. As founder of the GreenHarbor Resilience Project, Food Rescue Ambassador for Foolish Food Tanzania, Country Director for SDG Brigade, and Climate Ambassador for the Global Youth Climate Network, she champions climate-smart agriculture, food security, and environmental justice.

**SAMIR ABAKAR**
*Instanbul,Turkey*
Samir Taha Abakar is a Management Information Systems graduate student at Bartın University and a 2025 Local Pathways Fellow. An Erasmus alumnus from Vilnius University, he researches mobile information security and digital transformation. Fluent in English, French, Turkish, and Arabic, Samir published “The Hyperlink Between Entrepreneurship and Innovation” and aspires to lead digital innovation in Chad.

**KIMIYA SHIRINBAR**
*Miami,Florida*
Kimiya Shirinbar holds a master’s degree in Sustainable Business and serves as a Pilot Project Fellow at Miami-Dade Innovation Authority. As a selected delegate for the Global Youth Climate Conference 2025, she leverages social media and digital platforms to advocate for climate resilience. She also co-hosts The Sunbelt Sisters podcast, providing insights on sustainability, business, and policy, translating complex discussions into actionable solutions.

SOFFIYAH SANNI

Lagos, Nigeria

Soffiyah is a dynamic and forward-thinking urban planning graduate with a deep passion for addressing climate change challenges and fostering sustainability through innovative technology. She currently serves as a Project Assistant – Climate Finance at Arctic Infrastructure, a private organization dedicated to infrastructure delivery, urban development, and environmental sustainability. In her role, Soffiyah supports initiatives that integrate climate resilience and sustainable practices into urban projects.

A strong advocate for gender equality, Soffiyah is committed to bridging gender gaps and promoting inclusive urban planning practices that ensure sustainable cities are designed for all. She believes in the power of intersectional approaches to create equitable and resilient communities.

**THABANI SINGWANGO**
*Bulawayo, Zimbabwe*
Thabani Singwango is a dedicated climate advocate and a Be Visioners Mercedes-Benz Fellow. An FXB Climate Advocate and Earthshot Nominee for 2025, he also hold the titles of The African Group of Negotiators Experts Support (AGNES) and Sustainable Energy Accelerator Fellow. As a champion of the African Food Revolution and a GIS student at National University of Science and Technology , he leverages technology for sustainable solutions. Awarded the Youth Climate Action Fund in 2024, Thabani is committed to empowering youth in climate action and driving meaningful change as an entrepreneur.

**HARVEY ASUNCION**
*Manilla,Phillippines*
Harvey is a transformation leader with experience in strategy and operations, particularly with an online marketplace company, where he played a pivotal role in driving business transformations across the Asia-Pacific region. He is passionate in the intersection of people and strategy and believes people are the building blocks for any strategy to succeed.
Outside of work, he has established the Change Management Philippines community where he advocates how change management is integral to help people navigate change. He hopes the community can be a place where change practitioners can come together and collaborate on all things change management.

**NAM NGUYEN**
*San Diego,USA*
Nam Thanh Nguyen is an environmental justice advocate and researcher at UC San Diego, dedicated to addressing air and water pollution through a public health lens. As a member of California’s Environmental Justice Advisory Council, he works on improving environmental infrastructure and tackling crises like the Tijuana River sewage issue. His research explores the intersection of climate change and public health, focusing on wildfire mitigation and sustainable healthcare.

**LOU LERREN CURACHA**
*Windisch,Switzerland*
Lou Lerren Curacha is a geospatial scientist specializing in remote sensing for water and air quality, forest management, and environmental disease analysis. He holds a Master’s in Geography from the University of Zurich, where his research pioneered the global quantification of land surface temperature associated with land cover changes. His expertise supports sustainable urban planning, climate resilience, and environmental sustainability.

**HAMZA ISA**
*Nigeria*
Hamzah Isa Galadima is a young professional with a background in electrical and electronics engineering. He has experience in project management, data analysis, and digital skills training, having worked with organizations like Telus International, Appen, and Dataforce. Passionate about youth empowerment, sustainability, and innovation, he actively contributes to initiatives promoting education, agriculture, and technology-driven solutions for community development.

**SANA’A KHASAWNEH**
*Irbid,Jordan*
Sana’a is a passionate advocate for youth empowerment in sustainable development, driven by a deep commitment to road safety, climate action, and public health. As the Advocacy and Campaigns Manager at Youth for Road Safety (YOURS), she works to elevate young voices and create lasting impact in sustainable mobility. With five years of experience, Sana’ is known for her contagious energy, inspiring storytelling, and dedication to fostering youth leadership and women’s inclusion. She believes in the power of collaboration to build safer, healthier, and more inclusive communities.

**Jonë MORINA**
*Prishtine,Kosova*
Jonë is an urban planner with a background in architecture, specializing in strategic spatial development and sustainable mobility. A Young Cell Scheme alumna, she holds an MSc in Urban Management and Development from Erasmus University Rotterdam and works at the Institute for Spatial Planning in Kosovo. With experience at UN-Habitat and NGOs, she is dedicated to advancing inclusive and sustainable urban transitions.

**PRATHAM RATHI**
*Bengaluru,India*
Pratham Rathi is an early-career architecture and urban professional passionate about designing climate-resilient cities. He works at Sponge Collaborative, focusing on creating better urban spaces and is also interested in research on urban planning and city development. With a background in architecture that trained him to analyze and understand complex systems, Pratham is dedicated to developing long-term, research-driven solutions aimed at systemic restoration, sustainable urban growth, and making cities more resilient.

**JOSELYN MORENO**
*Quito,Ecuador*
Joselyn is an Environmental Engineer with seven years of experience in conservation and climate change. She has worked at Ecuador’s Ministry of Environment and with UN organizations such as FAO and UNDP. Specialized in territorial management, she collaborates with communities and institutions to develop sustainable solutions. Her analytical and detail-oriented approach strengthens interinstitutional work, promoting environmental education and climate action.

**RUVIMBO MUTASA**
*Johannesburg, South Africa*
Ruvimbo is a Master’s candidate at the University of Witwatersrand, researching intermittent water supply in water networks. She is passionate about water resources, solid waste management, and sustainable cities. Guided by values of Education, Empowerment, Entrepreneurship, Environment, and Engineering, she has interned at Water for the Future, served as a lecturer, and designs bags from upcycled materials. Ruvimbo aims to become a sustainability expert, focusing on SDGs 6, 11, and 12.

**ANENYAH VENKATESAN**
*Chennai,India*
An aspiring urbanist driven by curiosity and an inherent desire to enhance the lived experience of people, Anenyah endeavors to operationalize her academic and professional training in the built environment into localized sustainable strategies. With a focus on resilience, equity, and placemaking, she is committed to developing and implementing toolkits that advance urban transformations through deliberate planning and leadership.

**OVIYA THANGARAJ**
*United Kingdom*
Oviya Thangaraj is a public policy professional from India with experience in governance, urban policy, and social inclusion. She has worked on citizen participatory policymaking, gender and caste equity, and sustainable urban development. As a Local Pathways Fellow, she is committed to fostering inclusive cities and leveraging policy research to drive impactful change in marginalized communities.

**ALEXY PALMAR**
*Paris,France*
Alexy Palmar, a Venezuelan Campus France scholar, is pursuing his Master’s in Urban Planning and International Expertise at the École d'Urbanisme de Paris. With experience in architectural design, research, and urban analytics, he is committed to advancing SDG-driven urban transformations, focusing on sustainable development, informal settlements, and public space.

**ELNARA HUSEYNOVA**
*New York,USA*
Elnara is a Master of Public Administration student at Columbia University, specializing in Urban and Social Policy with a minor in Leadership, Innovation, and Design. Recognized as a “Change Maker of the Year: Social Impact,” she has transformed adversity into strength. She sees herself as a brave warrior, believing that while creating meaningful change is challenging, taking action to achieve it is even more so. Yet, the smiles of those she impacts bring her the greatest fulfillment.

**DOLLY CEPEDA**
*Edmonton,Canada*
Dolly was born in Bogotá, Colombia, raised in Edmonton, Canada and is a fervent climate action advocate. She sits on the Mayor of Edmonton's Energy Transition and Climate Reslience Committee, and is a member of Strong Towns Edmonton and the Touch Grass Club, which is building a mized-use community garden to cook food for the houseless community in North East Edmonton. She was on the inagural Youth Council for the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Canada. For fun, she loves to travel, and when she's in Edmonton, she likes to frequent the Edmonton Public Library with her friends.

**KAJAL ANTIL**
*Newcastle, Australia*
Kajal Antil is a Strategic Planner at the City of Newcastle, NSW. Kajal is a young and emerging planner with a keen interest in inclusive and sustainable built environments. She holds a Master of Urbanism (Urban and Regional Planning) from the University of Sydney. She is also a member of the NSW Emerging Planner Committee and Women in Planning Network.

HOLLY HARWOOD

San Diego,US

Holly Harwood is a Master’s student in International Affairs at UC San Diego’s School of Global Policy & Strategy. As Chief of Staff at Sustainable & Just Future, she bridges sectors for equitable, community-driven climate solutions. Her expertise spans climate education, just transition, circular economy, climate finance, and public-private partnerships. She co-founded the Southbay Resource Team for disaster relief and serves on the board of Our Time to Act, advancing housing justice for all.

**NAMWALA SILVA**
*Adelaide, Australia*
Namwala Silva Mgunda is an environmental scholar and lecturer specializing in sustainable urban development and community engagement. Pursuing a PhD in Environmental Studies at the University of Adelaide, his research focuses on urban green spaces for food production in informal settlements, with Dandora, Nairobi as a case study.
A 2019 Valedictorian at Maasai Mara University, Silva holds an MSc in Environmental Planning and an HDR Scholarship. He has led afforestation programs, published research on urban sustainability, and contributed to Kenya’s 15 billion trees initiative. He is also UNDP-certified in spatial planning, biodiversity monitoring, and green infrastructure., advancing sustainable urban development in Kenya and beyond.

EDITH ROSASI

Dortmund,Germany

Edith Rosasi is a master's student in spatial planning at TU Dortmund hailing from Kenya. Drawing from her experience in urban development, GIS, and policy analysis, she has collaborated with UN-Habitat and private consulting firms to promote sustainable city planning. Excited about data-informed solutions and community-focused design, she aims to construct inclusive, resilient urban environments that harmonize innovation with genuine human needs.

**JEANNE VINCENDEAU**
*Rome,Italy*
Jeanne Vincendeau is a dual Masters degree student in International Relations. Involved in projects promoting environmentalist policies and lifestyles, as well as supporting disadvantaged groups through community-building in alternative safe spaces for gender and racial minorities.
Passionate by public speaking, they are a firm believer that words build bridges within pluralistic societies and raise awareness through storytelling or debating.

**UWIZEYIMANA EMMANUEL**
*Kigali,Rwanda*
Plan. Emmanuel UWIZEYIMANA is a certified urban planner in Rwanda, a Master's student in the final year of Geo-Informal Sciences for Environment and Sustainable Development, and holds a BSc in Urban Planning from the University of Rwanda. He is an official Global Green Fellow. Currently, he works as a Building Construction Pre-Assessment Engineer in the City of Kigali, with expertise in sustainable urban planning, climate resilience, and sustainable land management, along with hands-on experience in green building assessment and smart city innovation technology. He is also dedicated to promoting inclusive cities and climate-resilient urban development, leveraging GIS and earth observation data to inform sustainable urban growth strategies across Rwanda and the globe.

**ANNA MARTA SKUDRINA**
*Groningen, The Netherlands*
Anna Marta is currently pursuing her master's degree in Environmental and Infrastructure Planning at the Rijksuniversiteit Groningen in the Netherlands. With a passion for shaping places far beyond the physical, she is particularly interested in the inclusion of marginalised groups and communities within planning processes, and strives to build on this aspiration going forward. She also holds a bachelor's degree in Spatial Planning and Design with a minor in Development Studies.

**MARINA GAVRILAKI**
*Athens, Greece*
Marina Gavrilaki is the co-founder and CEO of Physisorg, a start-up promoting collective climate actions with impact. She is also an EU Climate Pact Ambassador for Greece. She focuses on training, capacity building, and hands-on initiatives like Physisaftersun beach clean-ups. Additionally, she is a certified facilitator in finance and sustainability, designing and leading learning journeys to help businesses adopt sustainable practices.

**SAIF MUHAMMAD SHAH**
*Karachi Pakistan*
Saif Muhammad Shah is a dynamic environmental economist driving change in carbon markets and sustainability. As a Consultant at GGGI, he leads decarbonization efforts in Pakistan’s cement sector. Currently pursuing an M.Phil. in Economics, he blends econometrics with climate policy to shape data-driven solutions. Passionate about a greener future, Saif is dedicated to transforming industries for a sustainable tomorrow.

**MOHAMMED MUBARIK**
*Oshawa,Canada*
Mohammed Mubarik Mohammed, a social worker and agribusiness professional. A seasoned project officer with extensive experience in community development, food security and entrepreneurship. Mubarik's competence in critical problem-solving approach makes him a catalyst in community development. His ability to incorporate business principles into the agriculture sector makes him a reference for feasible policy implementation. He has contributed immensely to the implementation of several successful projects in the fields of agribusiness, economic empowerment, climate change and sustainable development.

**GELENE LAMARROZA**
*Quezon, Phillippines*
Geleme works as a consultant for MSMEs, drawing from her experiences in market research, human resource development, & entrepreneurship and training on disaster risk reduction and heritage conservation. On the side, she is currently working on her Masters degree in Urban and Regional Planning in University of the Philippines Diliman and has active engagement in her local organizations for heritage conservation and culture education. She is the founder of Pagkakataon PH where its mission is to empower Filipino youth through creating and sharing capacity-building opportunities and helping out MSMEs from labor to disaster risk reduction. She draws inspiration from local communities who are proactive in conserving their environment, heritage and their future through sustainable development and multi-sectoral collective action. She is a selected representative for Phase 2 of the UNITAR Women’s Leadership in Disaster Risk Reduction Training Programme 2024 held in Fiji.

I KOMANG ARDHINATA WIBAWA

Denpasar, Indonesia

Wibawa is an urban planner and researcher passionate about urban development, urban morphology, and tourism planning. He worked as a consultant who assisted local governments in conducting urban planning projects in more than five cities in Indonesia namely, detailed spatial plans and masterplans. He initiated a youth-led community called Kota Masa Depan or ‘The Future City’ to vocalise, discuss, and volunteer about various urban issues.

**SAMUEL OSEI**
*Tema, Ghana*
Samuel Osei-Amponsah is the Founder of Ecoclime Africa, advancing sustainability through solution-oriented research and innovations. He served as a Materials Engineering Research Assistant at the University of Ghana. A graduate of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology with climate leadership credentials, Samuel combines technical expertise with collaborative approaches to drive sustainable development across Africa.

**FARHAN SAMATAR**
*Nairobi,Kenya*
Farhan Hassan Samatar is a YALI Alumni, water engineer, and environmentalist, currently pursuing a Master's Degree in Environmental Engineering. With a strong background in water resource management, climate resilience, and environmental conservation, he is dedicated to sustainable solutions that enhance water security and ecosystem protection. His expertise spans GIS, hydrological modeling, geophysics, and pollution control, enabling him to develop innovative strategies for sustainable urban development and disaster risk management.
He has extensive experience in environmental engineering projects, site supervision, and geophysics surveying, contributing to impactful water and environmental initiatives. Farhan is passionate about leadership, sustainability, and the development of resilient cities and communities, using his skills to drive climate action and advocate for sustainable policies. Through his work, he continues to seek innovative solutions that address pressing environmental and water-related challenges.

**KIM JESSICA WAHNKE**
*Frankfurt ,Germany*
Kim Jessica Wahnke is an International Relations and Sustainable Development student focused on social sustainability. She is passionate about promoting the SDGs through community-driven initiatives that challenge stereotypes and facilitate cross-barrier communication. Kim has applied this interest through projects on improving access to urban spaces and advocating for greater attention to the urban realities of women, queer people and refugees.

**THANDILE TANZILE**
Mbabane,Eswatini
Thandile is a dynamic environmental scientist and sustainability advocate currently serving as a Consultant at the World Bank's Infrastructure, Environment, Climate, and Urban Resilience Unit. With a keen focus on developing analytics to guide government dialogues, she plays a pivotal role in advancing urban resilience and climate initiatives. She possesses a PhD in Water Management focusing on cities. Her technical prowess makes her a versatile and skilled professional in data analysis and visualization.

**SYED NWA ABBAS**
*Pakistan,Pakistan*
Syed Nwa Abbas Rizvi is a graduate from Beaconhouse National University (BNU) and University of Derby (UOD). She is a writer, translator, and educator based in Pakistan. In the daytime, she is a curriculum developer and education policymaker. She works as Manager—Curriculum English at Beaconhouse School System, Education Manager at Humaira Riaz Schools for underprivileged, out-of-school, and displaced children in Heir Village, and Mentor under the Global Schools Program. At night, she is the Chief Editor for an international literary magazine, The Missing Slate, and an internationally published writer of Fiction, Short Prose, and Poetry.

**ROWENA SHIVAM**
*London,United Kingdom*
Rowena is a first-year undergraduate at University College London (UCL), studying Sustainable Built Environment, Energy, and Resources. Passionate about sustainability and climate action, she explores how policy drives sustainable housing, focusing on Biodiversity Net Gain and the UK housing crisis.
With expertise in GIS, data analysis, and financial insight from Morgan Stanley, Goldman Sachs, and Barclays, she is also a UCL Green Impact Sustainability Ambassador. Her accolades include the International Creativity Award (Young Economist of the Year Ireland 2023) and a Certificate of Commendation from Fitzwilliam College, Cambridge for her essay on wage gaps.

JIRA TRINETKAMOL

Bangkok,Thailand

Jira is a policy analyst at a leading government affairs consultancy in Southeast Asia and an urban strategist for Thailand’s People’s Party, where he develops Bangkok’s urban policy agenda and Thailand’s decentralization strategy. He has worked at the California Governor’s Office of Planning and Research, the Brookings Institution, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. He also founded a nonprofit dedicated to supporting the homeless elderly community in Thailand. Jira holds bachelor's degrees in Urban Studies, Economics, and Political Science from the University of California, Irvine. His interests include developing resilient regions, decentralizing governance, and fostering transformative placemaking.