Nova Scotia Youth Climate Council

Zoya is nearing the end of her studies at Dalhousie University and is completing a Community Design and Sustainability Honours (double major) and Geographic Information Sciences (GIS Certificate). By studying environmental planning and sustainable design, she is learning to integrate nature-based solutions, low-carbon infrastructure, and climate-adaptive zoning policies into Halifax’s evolving landscape. She recognizes that climate change disproportionately affects low-income and marginalized communities and wants to use her knowledge to ensure Nova Scotia’s clean economy is inclusive, accessible, and just. Her goal is to take the Canadian Institute of Planners Professional Exam and become an urban planner who ensures inclusive and sustainable practices in her work.

Quinn is currently working towards a Bachelor of Arts in Environment, Sustainability, Society, and Political Science at Dalhousie University. They believe that knowledge is power and that when individuals are well informed, they make educated decisions, teach others, and make change on their own. They are interested in developing a climate curriculum to bring climate education, inclusive of Indigenous Ways of Being, into the classroom.

Shomari is currently in a Bachelor of Applied Science at Acadia University. His goal is to work in fields tied to environmental protection by looking at ways to reduce pollution and preserve vital fishing areas. He is keen to collaborate with local communities to develop sustainable fishing practices and engage communities in developing localized climate adaptation strategies. He hopes that, by combining scientific knowledge with community engagement, he will be able to make meaningful contributions to Nova Scotia’s clean economy transition while ensuring the protection of its unique wildlife and valuable fishing resources for future generations.

Alyssa will be beginning their Masters of Resource & Environmental Management at Dalhousie University in September 2025. While they are keen to gain interdisciplinary skills in environmental policy, conservation planning, and sustainable resource management, she is most excited about the internship requirement. Their goal is to gain hands-on industry experience that will help them with their dream career of working within public service and visitor experience.