CONNACHT
GALWAY

My name is Abiola Owoade. I am a Chemical Engineering Graduate from Nigeria. I am passionate about waste management and I plan to work towards strengthening waste collection and management by increasing awareness about sustainable reuse of goods that are readily available and I will encourage people to embrace the culture of repairing or recycling rather than disposing.
GALWAY

My name is Hilda O'Grady. I am a tidy towner with a passion for our environment, youth and wider community engagement in nature and taking small cumulative practical actions to make a difference. Am actively involved in over 20 Sustainability and Biodiversity projects and practices in my village. I am also a founder of our tidy towns junior primary schools programme called Kinvara Earthkeepers. I am planning to set up a new radio show/ podcast called 'Nature relationships'. I believe a focus on creating and nurturing relationships with nature will increase engagement and create impact through personal actions and commitment. I enjoy bringing this philosophy into our tidy towns group, partnership with multi stakeholders including our county council and via social media to enhance communications and influence change(s).
LEITRIM

Hi! My name is Ignacio Martínez Armas. I’m originally from Spain, but I’m currently working in the environmental NGO GEAI, in Co. Leitrim. I’ve always had a strong emotional bond to Nature, and protecting it is the least I can do to maintain this connection. I’m specialised on academic research on Nature’s representation in cinema. But now, I’m working on a local Biodiversity Project for Ballinaglera, hand by hand with ecologists and studying the policy. I hope being Climate Ambassador can enhance this local project that, eventually, can work as an example for other communities around Ireland.
GALWAY

My name is Malena Thren, I am a final year environmental science student in Galway and also the sustainability officer with the Students Union, so it is fair to say that sustainability is my passion! I am a huge fan of the outdoors and seeing nature suffer from our actions is the reason why I am so passionate about being more sustainable. I hope to work with other climate ambassadors to kick start some projects around Galway that turn the city into a hub for biodiversity!
GALWAY

My name is Pablo Lorenzo Esteve and I was born and raised in the Canary Islands, where I grew up around nature, be it in the waves or on the mountains. For as far as I can remember, I´ve always valued the environment for what it is and gives to me - a peaceful, unique, and surprising place that always makes me feel joyful. Through studying Politics, Geography and Psychology at the University of Galway, I attempt to protect and enhance the world that has given me so much -the natural world-.
GALWAY

Hey, my name is Shane, and I am a climate ambassador for 2023. I look forward to meeting everyone and sharing the story of why we are passionate about the climate. I am a final-year environmental science student, and throughout my life on a farm and my bachelor's degree I grew a great love for the outdoors and what life it holds. I love nature and want to try and protect it the best I can and educate others about why it is important.
LEINSTER
DUBLIN

Hi, my name is Aalisha and I grew up in India with a keen interest in nature, hiking, and wildlife. I work as a researcher in corporate sustainability, ESG, and environmental economics. The more I work in this field, the more I realise there is so much to be done! I am excited to be a part of the Climate Ambassador community and hope to learn more about climate change, its impacts, and choices we can make to reduce them.
DUBLIN

My name is Aisha, and I’m a first-year student in Electrical Services Engineering in TUD. I’m also a secretary for the Sustainability Society in my college. Being passionate about the environment is second nature to me, as I am the type of person who stands up for what I believe in, and I work hard to achieve justice or solutions to problems. In the future, I would love to work in renewable energy/sustainable energy management or environmental policy. My ultimate dream would be to become the minister for the environment.
DUBLIN

Hi, my name is Aline, but you can also call me Lily. I am studying Marketing and UX design and volunteering in a local charity shop in addition to my part-time job. I come from the Brazilian northeast where water scarcity is a reality in a semi-arid land and a world without no water, no green, and no wildlife is absolutely empty and painful. If you have seen Dune, it feels a bit like that, but without the spice. I believe in the power of individual and community actions and the huge impact they can have. I cannot see the future without sustainability, as the Mandalorian says "this is the way", after all Baby Yoda needs a habitable world to live in. If you want a hand on this journey, I'm here to help.
DUBLIN

Hello! My name is Alison. I study Climate and Environmental Sustainability in DCU. I am so excited to be a climate ambassador this year and come up with creative and sustainable actions and ideas. I have lived by the sea my whole life, which has given me a particular love for the sea and marine life. I want to advocate for those who do not have a voice. I would love to focus on events such as beach clean ups. I am looking forward to working with like-minded people who have the same motivation and passion!
DUBLIN

Hi, I'm Amy! I'm a recent graduate of applied mathematics, currently bartending in Dublin. Science has always been a love of mine, and the climate crisis has provided a serious undertone to a lot of that learning. I think education and impact can be delivered in all sorts of ways, whether through the arts, community involvement, or making some of that science a bit more accessible. I'm hoping to get stuck in to all three of those approaches this year, and maybe help myself and others feel a little bit less helpless in the fight against climate change.
DUBLIN

I have a vocational background in Civil engineering and over 07 years of experience in project consultation in the built environment sector. I am a Master's Student in Business Management and my motivation to join this force stems from my observations of the risks & opportunities that lie in the persisting Climate issues and the undying resilience of a few to address the same. Through my observation and experience, I realize how Climate change issues are crippling progress, undermining sustenance and posing both immediate & imminent threats to us and future generations. It's unfortunate that the youth of today unknowingly carries the biggest risk of alarming eventualities. In light of the same, I truly feel that it's only fair to take the opportunity to drive change that is pertinent to sustainable development and alter the realities by admiring prospects that build promising and endless possibilities for sustainability.
DUBLIN

My name is Ash Middleton, I am a facilitator of sustainability volunteering in University College Dublin, and an environmental enthusiast. I am passionate about new technologies for sustainable innovation, sustainable transport, biodiversity, water conservation, and above all else, zero-waste! I believe that working together we will be able to create climate solutions that will save our planet. I joined a team of other climate ambassadors and we developed an idea for the Leonardo Da Vinci competition. It was a really great experience to see how we could all utilize our skillsets and develop a climate positive solution. It made me feel like I’d actually be able to achieve something by connecting with other climate ambassadors, and not have it relate to anything from work. I’d love to keep moving forward with this and see what else I can come up with for my actions.
DUBLIN

My name is Asma Yaqoob and I am a PhD candidate at the School of Law and Government at Dublin City University. I have a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations from University of Karachi (Pakistan); and a Master’s degree in Practising Sustainable Development from Royal Holloway University of London (UK). My research at DCU comprises of historical analysis of trade-offs between political economy and ecology in Indus Basin to underscore current and future climate change adaptation policy failures in South Asia. I am an early riser and advocate a lot in my peer group and family gatherings about the ecological benefits of sleeping early and turning off lights to save energy. I am also fascinated by the concept of green schools and strongly believe in promoting climate adaptation through youth literacy programs. I am looking for roles in green schools to work with children regarding climate adaptation techniques. I plan to start writing blogs soon to remove certain misconceptions about ecology and climate change.
DUBLIN

Hello, my name is Calin Budau. I use he/him pronouns. I am an MEng Energy Systems Engineering student in UCD. I am passionate about advocacy, activism, and direct action. With the Climate Ambassador program, I hope to empower individuals to organise themselves and their communities by prioritising collective action, cooperation, mutual aid, and grassroots organising. This could include: food sovereignty initiatives - community gardening and local sustainable food systems, education and awareness campaigns like film screenings and workshops, mutual aid networks for climate refugees and climate justice etc.
DUBLIN

My name is Celestine O’Reilly. I have always loved the outdoors, so to me, protecting the environment is a no-brainer. As time went by, climate change became the big issue so when I retired, it was top of my bucket list. I started writing e -mails and I lobbied a local politician, but soon realised I could not act alone. I’ve since joined canvassing groups on the street, and I join in protest marches – and meet some great people. I’ve produced a leaflet about aviation, as it is such a glaringly obvious culprit when it comes to greenhouse gas emissions.
DUBLIN

Hi, I’m Claudia Bailey! I am from Washington, D.C. and I moved to Dublin a little over a year and a half ago. My climate story started in my AP Environmental Science class in high school, where I was first introduced to climate change topics. I came home everyday and excitedly told my parents a new climate change fact! I have been involved with many sustainability and zero-waste volunteer organizations as a student and young professional. I just completed my MSc in Smart and Sustainable Cities at TCD. I am looking forward to bringing a global perspective to urban climate action in Dublin!
WICKLOW

Hello, My name is Dylan, I'm from Wicklow but study Environmental science in ATU Sligo. Climate change has been seen as a detrimental issue since I've been young and I've always thought it to be the most pressing issue of our time. As impacts of climate change become more severe it is necessary to do the best we can to protect our environment and stop any further global warming. As an individual I do this not only by seeking it as a career but implementing it into my day to day life and hope to create actions and discussions within my community
DUBLIN

My name is Elaine Doyle. I have been an environmentalist since the 1990's and involved in multiple campaigns throughout the years. I have a special interest in forestry, water quality and food security. I work voluntarily with a charity involved in forestry to raise awareness, run courses and run campaigns. I have also worked on food security policy and involved with helping a new eco socialist political group develop policies around the climate change and social justice. I believe we are too far away from achieving the change required and hope in the next two years 2023 & 2024 will see a change in this regards.
DUBLIN

Hi, I’m Eoghan from Dublin and I am in my second year of studying a BA in climate and environmental sustainability at DCU. I have a passion for wildlife and conservation and currently volunteer in the education department at Dublin Zoo. Since I began there I have found a passion for education and is the reason why I joined the ambassador program. I want to teach people about climate change and the effects it has on wildlife and the ways in which we can help. I feel the sharing of knowledge is the greatest tool we have.
DUBLIN

My name is Eoghan, and I teach the Technology subjects at second level. I grew up among swathes of trees in Co. Clare and studied a master’s in Outdoor and Sustainability Education in Sweden, so I have a real grá for the natural world. I am conscious that the subjects I teach use a lot of raw materials and I want to reduce their impact on our world by promoting a more circular economy approach to them. I hope that by doing this the next generation of carpenters, architects, engineers, etcetera will utilise a circular economy approach in their work.
DUBLIN

My name is Eoin Brennan, and I’m from Dublin. I am an undergraduate student at Trinity College studying Economics and Politics. My story begins during covid when the streets emptied. It made me wonder about the space and time given to cars. There should be greater opportunities to travel sustainably. I’m working to make Pearse Street greener and a better space for bikes and pedestrians.
DUBLIN

Hello! My name is Erin Hoare. I’m a BSc Sustainability student in UCD from Kilkenny. I’m always amazed by the beauty of the natural world hence, I’m passionate about changing our future for the better. I hope to organise events at my university and continue to inspire and grow our student network!
DUBLIN

Hi there! My name is Federica, I am an Italian TCD student and a scuba diver. I grew up in the countryside, in a place where the forest and the sea are close in a magic combination. Hiking and observing the wildlife in all its forms and aspects are my favourite outdoor activities since then. I decided to join the Climate Ambassador programme because I firmly believe that nature is not something separate from us. I would love to raise awareness about the damage we cause to the environment and the habits we can change in order to protect biodiversity and restore our connection to the natural world.
DUBLIN

My name is Fiona Frechat, I'm French, based in Ireland for three years. My journey started during my teenage years, when my family and I moved to a French tropical island named Reunion. Growing up surrounded by this pristine nature, I felt the urge to protect it. I have been a vegetarian for 5 years. I'm really passionate about the oceans and food. Those fields really inspire me. I had the chance to take several leadership roles in various environmental associations. Currently, I am a leader in my company's environmental association, supervising the European region and events.
DUBLIN

I've been passionate about the environment since I was a child! I studied Mechanical Engineering at UCD and then completed a Masters in Environment, Development and Policy from the University of Sussex in Brighton, UK. After graduating, I coordinated arrestee support for people participating in Extinction Rebellion protests in London. I currently work as Head of Green Investment at Rethink Ireland. I love learning about grass roots environmental projects in Ireland that connect communities to the issues that are most important to them. I can't wait to learn more about how we can make a change as a Climate Ambassador this year. I am also sharing the Rethink Ireland website. We open funds on a rolling basis. Any projects that are seeking funding can have a look at the website to see if they fit the criteria for any of the funds that are currently open for applications. There is a fund specific email to reach out to if anyone has any questions. We are always encourage everyone to apply!
DUBLIN

Hi my name is Imogen and I’m a second year student in Wesley College Dublin. I’ve been interested in climate from a young age, I’ve always wanted to do something to help. I didn’t think that was possible until I heard of the climate ambassador program. I was very surprised when I was selected, I thought that there must have been a mistake as I am only 14 Although I am young, I will truly try my best to be a good climate ambassador and make changes for the better.
MEATH

Jean Kavanagh, BSc Business DCU, PGDip Design Thinking for Sustainability UCD, and now working as Customer Success Exec at UrbanVolt. Having grown up in the lush Meath countryside, I have always had an appreciation for nature & the outdoors. Through my studies, however, I became hyper-aware that we are living in a consumption-driven society - one where companies are making millions through the exploitation of people’s weaknesses. Once I understood the power of marketing & the responsibility that comes with knowing, I knew that working in sustainability was one way I could take action. Becoming a climate ambassador is important for me because I believe in the power of the collective, and it’s hugely inspiring to meet people with a shared interest & optimism.
LAOIS/KILDARE

Hello, my name is Jordan Eustace. I recently completed my MsC in Global Challenges for Sustainability. I am passionate about nature, climate change, and slow fashion. During my master's, I worked with international organisations such as the UNFCCC (United Nations Framework Convention On Climate Change) and IWMI (International Water Management Institute) on projects concerned with mitigating climate change effects. As Climate Ambassador, I aim to collaborate with my local community to improve the locality while also sharing and improving my knowledge of climate science!
DUBLIN

P. F. Joseph Campbell M.Sc. I am a education scientist and digital resource developer. I have been involved with environmental actions since the 1970's. My main area of concern is biodiversity loss and in particular the fate of insects. I aim to increase awareness by developing a series of educational quizzes in formats familiar to teachers (Kahoot !, Quizizz., etc) for use in the second level classroom. Also, I hope to implement an environmental policy within my workplace.
KILDARE

My name is JR. My background is in both Social Care and Media. Pivoting my career several times from Youth Worker to working as an Online Manager for Sustainable businesses to finally starting my own business in 2022. I now create sustainable websites for ethical businesses/nonprofits. My passion is educating others about how we can improve and use digital technologies more sustainably. I'm also on the Committee for my local Tidy Towns and have been a healthy and happy vegan for 12 years. I believe positive social change starts with individuals before spreading out across our communities and I hope to utilise the knowledge I gain during my time as a Climate Ambassador to do just that.
DUBLIN

Hi I’m Julia, and I work as an environmental consultant. Growing up in the Dublin Mountains I spent a lot of time outdoors and it’s where I developed my love and passion for the environment. When I’m not working, I’m usually playing GAA for my local club, or water sports - I love the sea. I’m a fluent Irish speaker so I enjoy exploring our connection to the land through the Irish language. I hope to be able to make small changes in my community and workplace to encourage people to live more sustainably and mindfully.
DUBLIN

I work as a social care worker in a disability service in north county Dublin where this year we have launched our EMS project aiming to reduce our carbon footprint and educate our service users on climate change. I have facilitated workshops on a variety of topics close to my heart such as sustainable fashion, soap making, waste reduction, biodiversity and energy management. This year I hope to expand on my knowledge so far and transfer this in a user friendly way to as many as possible.
DUBLIN

I am Kalyn and am a PhD candidate studying Environmental Psychology at Maynooth University. I am originally from the US, where I spent much of my time growing up outdoors and in nature. I am interested in breaking down barriers and fostering greater education that opens the way to accessing the outdoors. My research is interdisciplinary, focusing on the roles that issues of safety, connection/disconnection, and environmental justice play in equitable nature access and shifts towards pro-environmental behaviour change. I am looking to connect to my local community and other passionate sustainability leaders across Ireland to support tangible change.
DUBLIN

Hello, my name is Karen McLaughlin and I started my love of the environment as a young girl growing up in the countryside surrounded by green fields, lakes and woodlands in the midlands. I became a Home Economics teacher and also a Green Schools Coordinator where I could share my passion with the next generation. I hope to continue to inform people about how to live more sustainably by visiting more schools/organisations and also encourage the local community to enhance and preserve the area we live in.
DUBLIN

Hello! I’m Kim Lake, and I live in North County Dublin. I’m currently studying Environmental Science and Organic Horticulture. Growing my own food in a small allotment really opened my eyes to the unnecessary food miles there are on a lot of the groceries we buy. As a Climate Ambassador I hope to share what I’m learning with my local community, and want to set up some workshops on growing healthy, organic food at home. I’m planning some biodiversity-friendly projects for our area through our local Tidy Towns group. Over the coming months, I’ll also be working with a fellow Climate Ambassador to develop their school tree planting project, and to broaden it into an educational programme which I’m super excited about!
DUBLIN

My name is Lisa Basquel, and I am a fourth year student in the University of Galway studying Politics, Economics, and Law. Having lived in both the east and west of Ireland, I am in admiration of our beautiful country and love the outdoors, which is what motivated me to become a climate ambassador. I hope to learn about and inform others of any small actions individuals can make that work toward a big environmental impact.
WICKLOW

My name is Luke Fagan and I'm from Wicklow. My background is in Zoology and I've been fortunate enough to be on fascinating global conservation trips (most notably living on a boat in the Amazon for 2 months studying river dolphins!). I'm a co-founder of Vyra, an environmental-sustainability education platform for businesses. This year as a Climate Ambassador, I'm keen to leverage our resources to educate people outside the business world.
DUBLIN

My name is Mariángeles. I am originally from Uruguay. More than 20 years ago I chose to study Chemical Engineering to be able to collaborate with the environment and improve climate change. I have worked for many years in the environmental area, evaluating the efficiency of a wastewater treatment plant, evaluating the water quality of the main rivers in Montevideo, and analyzing environmental samples of water, wastewater, sludge, and soil. I have evaluated the dangerousness of several industrial solid wastes. Nowadays I am in Ireland and I have a personal commitment to collaborate in cleaning beaches, planting trees and participating in the peatland restoration, among others.
DUBLIN

My name is Marica, I am from the Northeast Inner city. I have an undergraduate in Business and studying for a Master's in Climate Change. I am passionate about saving the world, I want to combine education and life experience to create real tangible change that we can be proud of starting in my community and creating a ripple effect of positive change to save the environment.
DUBLIN

My name is Mark. The hole in the ozone layer and the loss of species kick-started my interest/fear for nature in the 1980's. I don't eat meat. I am involved in my local community and hope to get more involved this year. Extinction of species should have us collectively asking ourselves some profoundly serious questions. Anthropocentrism is one big root of the current crisis I would like to challenge. This programme is opening my eyes to the solutions available and the factors hindering their implementation.
DUBLIN

Hi, my name is Mark Germaine. I am a PhD researcher in machine learning in Dublin City University and someone with a keen interest in making the transition to "Make Ireland Green Again" as smooth as possible. I believe this ranges from small steps that we can all take each day to try to live more sustainably, to policies at a government level to make it as easy as possible for us to make the right choices, and all the way to the geopolitical level to ensure we act together around the globe to achieve climate goals. I'm a particular advocate for active transport where possible and trying to make our schools as friendly as possible to those who actively travel there.
KILKENNY

My name is Matthew Hickey and I am a Secondary School student at Coláiste Abhainn Rí, Callan, County Kilkenny. I am also a member of the youth Climate Action group Climate Assembly Éire. CAÉ is dedicated to creating spaces in which Young people and Politicians can discuss the Climate Crisis, what actions they have been taking to combat it and what they can do in the future. I do not remember what caused me to be interested in Climate Activism. Perhaps it was all the Artemis Fowl books I read when I was younger? Whatever the case may be I began to be especially aware of the Climate in my early teens. I took part in the Fridays For Future global protest in September of 2019 and have been trying to do my part ever since.
DUBLIN

Hi I'm Melanie. Originally from Paris in France I'm moved to Ireland three years ago. There I've discovered a lifestyle closer to nature, less urban and that has pushed me to begin my sustainability journey. I believe that action through community is the only way to really make the shift towards a sustainable society. We're stronger together and that's what I want to share as a Climate Ambassador!
DUBLIN

Hi, my name is Mia Keane and I’m a secondary school student from Dublin. From a young age I’ve been passionate about protecting our environment. I signed up to be a climate ambassador to further inform myself about climate change, so I can live more sustainably and encourage my peers to do so too. My main goal this year is to help run my school’s Green Week successfully, ensuring people are having fun while learning and come out with a positive outlook on the role they can play to help combat climate change!
DUBLIN

Hi my name is Michael Noonan I am currently working as a Sustainable Policy Analyst for TU Dublin where I will play a key role in advising the Vice President for Sustainability and providing support to the wider Sustainability Team on the development of University Sustainability Strategy. Last year I was working for the United Nations Development Program as an Environment & Climate Change Support Officer. I am very passionate about climate change as I believe it is the greatest threat humankind has ever faced, and I want to try and help to solve this problem for future generations. My hopes are to do as much as possible to raise climate activism, through various forms of climate communications platforms & I want to help guide students here in TU Dublin towards securing sustainable jobs.
DUBLIN

My name is Monika Bozic and I am a second-year politics, philosophy and economics student at UCD. I became interested in the importance of economics in financing climate action and motivating global actors such as governments or multinational corporations to take stronger climate action. Also, I am passionate about combining my interest in fashion with climate action, to learn how to develop my own style sustainably, mend my own clothing and look for slow and conscious fashion. I plan to start a fashion society at UCD which is heavily focused on sustainability, to inspire more people to do the same.
DUBLIN

I am passionate about sustainability, education, and communication. Currently I am studying for a Diploma in Environment, Sustainability and Climate at UCC, which I am loving! I believe that every job is a green job, and my goal is to help people and organisations to create and tell their own sustainability stories. I am happiest when helping forge links between organisations and people to create innovative sustainable solutions to problems. I wear my Climate Ambassador badge with pride!
DUBLIN

I’m Rosamaria, I’m Italian and have been living in Dublin since 2019. I’ve always been interested in sustainability and tried to take conscious choices and influence others towards sustainable behaviours. I currently work in a tech company and am part of the Sustainable Development Goals Club, through which we aim to drive awareness and influence our colleagues to take climate actions and achieve a better and more sustainable future. I’m interested in slow fashion, upcycling, food waste, and plant-based food. I hope I will collaborate with other like-minded people to have a greater impact and save the planet!
DUBLIN

My name is Sadhbh and I’m from Dublin. I am a recent Geography graduate, so studying climate change and the impact it has on people, plants and animals has always been a subject close to my heart! I am currently working on a STEM education programme called Academy of the Near Future that encourages young people to identify and tackle environmental challenges facing their local communities. I’m really excited to participate in the Climate Ambassador programme to learn from and connect with other like-minded people!
DUBLIN

Hi I'm Salma and I'm a Climate Ambassador because of my strong belief in helping to make the earth a long lasting place. One day I came across the Climate Ambassador programme and I was shocked that I never heard of it before. It was definitely something I was really interested in and I joined because I want to change and I want to be a part of that change.
DUBLIN

Hi my name is Samsom Giliu, and I am a Global Health student at Trinity. My passion for environmental conservation and advocacy for urgent action on climate change is fuelled by my understanding of its cross-cutting impact on Sustainable Development Goals. With a background in public health and first-hand experience of climate change's devastating effects on vulnerable communities of the Horn of Africa, I hope to work towards a sustainable future by organizing community events and advocating for practical solutions to reduce carbon emissions. I leverage resources to drive meaningful change and address the urgent challenges of climate change.
MEATH

Hello, my name is Sam. I grew up and still live in grey-coloured commuter village beside an industrial incinerator. Ever since I was about 9 years old, I have been fascinated by the natural world around me and aware of the existence of a climate crisis from various geography books I would look at. Never receiving an education on this topic in primary school, I have made it my mission as a climate ambassador to spread awareness and gain a great understanding amongst children on how they view this topic. I plan run awareness campaigns in my old primary school and also work with my local councillors/TD to transform my local village into a green, eco-friendly community. This is my climate story.
LOUTH

Hey, my name is Saorla. I’m a TY student from Louth. I’m interested in climate change because I’ve always had a passion for the environment as growing up I lived near a beach. I’ve been part of my local Tidy Towns and participated in beach cleanups. I'm interested in supporting eco-friendly and sustainable growth in my school and my local community and I hope to use my role as a climate ambassador to achieve this.
MEATH

Hi my name is Sarah, I am in secondary school in St. Olivers Community College. I plan to use my skills from Climate ambassador training to better my knowledge for helping climate change. This organisation gave me the skills to present and reach a new network of people who are interested in aiding the damage of climate change too. I am involved in many other organizations like ECO- UNESCO, Foroige and friends forever international. From here I plan to teach more teens about climate change and what we can do as personally, Information is one of the best ways to reach young adults.
DUBLIN

My name is Senan from North County Dublin. I study International Relations in DCU. Here I developed an interest in climate politics and activism. I’m involved in a number of organisations in my local town such as the GAA and Scouting Ireland and I’m hoping to use the experience I have gained through the climate ambassador programme in my community.
WICKLOW

Hi there, I’m Sheila. I live in SE Wicklow. I returned to Ireland in the 90’s I began volunteering in the city when I went back to university to take my masters in European Social Policy Analysis and that lead me to run for election for the Green Party in the Nth Inner City. In 2000 we moved to a small holding in Wicklow and became clearing, planting and growing our own food: a process that makes you super aware of climate impacts on nature. We did this for over 12yrs and now we live by the coast and where I literally live ‘on the beach’; daily walks in winter, sea-swimmer April to October. I can see yearly how biodiversity is eroded and participating in the EU Citizen Science Coastal Survey confirms this. Coastal Erosion or biodiversity loss may not be visible to everyone but littering, dumping and people damage is. I want to try to impact this with community involvement projects and school visits - where possible.
LAOIS

My name is Síle and I am based in Co.Laois. I am currently studying part-time for a Hons. Degree in Environmental Management in ATU Sligo. I became a climate ambassador to help create a cleaner, greener better world for my daughters and future generations. I studied natural science & climate change 20 years ago and have always been passionate about promoting awareness about climate change & environmental issues. It is good to see all the initiatives taking place through encouraging initiatives and educating people with knowledge of Climate Change. I recently completed a Sustainability Leadership Programme through Skillnet to help drive sustainability strategies within my work in the Food Industry. I love gardening, growing food and cooking. This year I would like to help people realise the impact that even small changes can make. Win small, win early, win often!!
LAOIS

Hi my name is Stephen. I am a keen mountain biker and hiker. I am happiest when out in the mountains and in my spare time I organise litter picks in my local mountains. I hope to help people understand how to protect Irelands mountains and upland areas and the wide biodiversity that lives in these areas. Follow @trashfreemtb to see what we get up to.
DUBLIN

Hello, my name is Tahreem Fatima. I am from Pakistan, currently based in Dublin. I am doing my Masters in Biodiversity and Conservation from TCD. The recent devastating flood impacts in Pakistan made me realise the urgency of Climate actions that we all need to undertake by all means. I have been a part of the European Institute of technology's - Climate leadership journey program 2022, which gave me a wonderful optimistic experience that there are massive opportunities for a sustainable and equitable future than the challenges ahead. My BioCon course that I am currently doing in Trinity college, is an inspiring and valuable contribution towards my sustainable future plan. Last but not the least, I am extremely happy to be a part of this Climate Ambassador program 2023 and really hopeful to take constructive climate action while going further in this journey.
DUBLIN

My name is Tania, living in Dublin. I have always been interested in Sustainability. This year I started my own Blog where I share my findings, tips and thoughts about how important it is to be aware of our environment and how easy it is to make a good impact. I enrolled on the Climate Ambassador programme to get involved in more activities and meet people with the same interests, as well as to be able to share experiences, learn from others and get more knowledge on Climate Change and Sustainability.
DUBLIN

I’m Tonyia and my background is as a creative producer in television. I believe strongly in the power of screen storytelling to promote the message of climate change and inspire audiences to live with less impact on the planet. The Climate Ambassador programme is an opportunity for me to channel my creativity and communications skills into devising green initiatives that will put climate action in the hands, hearts and minds of the public at large. Myself and Liza Riley, a fellow Climate Ambassador, co-produce a sustainable living podcast for parents called “EcoMomics”. Follow us on Twitter/Instagram @ecomomics_ie.
DUBLIN

Hello. My name is Ursula. My eco consciousness was developed mainly by my parents. Growing up on a farm where everything is recycled, repaired or passed down impacted how I live and consume materialistic items. I am a secondary school science teacher. The new junior cycle curriculum has shifted its focus slightly to encourage sustainability and promote conversations about our ever changing environment. While completing the climate ambassador program this year, I hope to educate students, peers and neighbours on little things they can change in their lifestyle that will make a big impact on their community.
DUBLIN

My name is Zhihao and I'm studing in UCD for my PhD in food engineering. My thesis topic is about Environmental and human health risks from microplastics. So, it is my daily life to concern the climate change and environment protection. I joined the Climate Ambassador program to communicate with people from different background and learn more knowledge about climate change, and to utilize my research work to protect our planet and to make our homeland have day-to-day better changes.
MUNSTER
TIPPERARY

Hello, my name is Alex and I live in Tipperary with my husband, two daughters and our Golden Retriever Henry. I am originally from Germany and environmental awareness has been part of my life since early childhood. My professional background is in education but I left teaching a couple of years ago to set up Roots and Wings where I provide training in Nature Connecting Approaches for Health and Education Professionals. I am passionate about all things Health and Nature, and Climate Action is a big part of that.
LIMERICK

My name is Aoife McKeon and I'm from Limerick City. My background is in biochemistry & process science. I have become increasingly concerned about the climate crisis and decided to devote my future career to it by taking up a MSc in Sustainable Resource Management, which I am currently studying. I wanted to join the Climate Ambassador Program to meet a network of like-minded people and make a bigger impact by acting within a community. My climate actions will involve making my coffee roastery business more environmentally friendly and working on a sustainability strategy for an international Ultimate Frisbee tournament.
WATERFORD

I am a research scientist and a lecturer by profession. I am also a final year PhD student at SETU Waterford Campus. My research area is centred on marine biotechnology, sustainability and circular economy. My interest in ‘seafood waste valorization’ research was birthed because it was a way to achieve the UNSDG 14 goal-‘’Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development’’ and combat the deleterious effect climate change on the ocean. One of the strands of my PhD research focused on water treatment and management. This research made me realize the depth of the global water resource management crisis. The fact that access to clean water is further exacerbated by climate change, made me more interested in being a climate change ambassador. Being a climate ambassador ties in very well with my current endeavours in working for the blue economy i.e. the sustainability of the water and fisheries sector globally.
KERRY

My name is Clodagh, I am a PhD student carrying out research in the area of environmental biotechnology. I have been interested in environmental issues from a young age but I would like to take more meaningful action and encourage others to join me. As a climate ambassador, I am planning to get involved in local clean-up and conservation activities, as well as running my own environmental workshop.
CORK

My name is Denis. I am studying Sustainability, Environment and Climate in UCC. Growing up I was lucky to live 50 yards from a forest and spent every moment I could there, exploring and watching nature. Sparrowhawks were always a favourite. I am concerned about the loss of biodiversity and hope to work in habitat protection. I joined the Climate Ambassador program to grow my practical knowledge and learn from other people's experience.
CORK

My name is Emily! I am studying Law at University College Cork. I grew up around the ocean in West Cork, so I’ve always felt a strong connection to it. I’m really passionate about ocean conservation and marine protection and sea life in general. I love sharks! I want to educate others of the beautiful world we have on our shores and empower them to protect it.
LIMERICK

My name is Hannah Kindregan and I am currently working with Ballyhoura Development CLG. I am passionate about communities and what steps they can take to tackling climate issues. I am a currently involved in the Limerick Branch of the Irish Wildlife Trust and through my work conduct and coordination climate education projects.
CORK

Hi, I’m Hazel, I’m a community artist/illustrator/graphic recorder from Cork. I’ve always had an interest in climate action and sustainability and during the pandemic I decided to study Permaculture at Kinsale College. There I learned the importance of building community around climate action, and this led me to get involved with local community gardening projects. I’m a core member of the tree planting group Trees Please and I want to become a leader on climate action. My family has a smallholding in Clonakilty, where we’ve been taking actions such as planting hedgerows, wildflowers and we plan to dig a pond
CORK

Hi, my name is Jake McAuliffe & I’m based on the southside of Cork City. I’m passionate about positive climate actions. I’m on the Board of a local community organisation as well as chair of a local SEC (Sustainable Energy Communities). In my efforts with the community group, we have completed various energy upgrades to the community building to date, including use of an electric van for our Meals on Wheels service. Currently pursuing large scale works to the community building having completed an Energy Master Plan (EMP), the first of its kind for a Cork City group, as well as holding community events to explore further community action. I hope Climate Ambassadors can assist and advise in like-minded efforts to bring about positive climate actions.
CORK

My name is Jessica and I am a primary school teacher in Cork. I have always been passionate about climate change and believe that radical action towards a more sustainable society is critical to ensuring a liveable world for future generations. As a teacher I have observed a huge increase in the awareness and anxiety children have regarding climate change and its potential ramifications in comparison to when I was in school. I have recently taken on the role of Green Schools co-ordinator in my school in an effort to promote positive changes in my local community, and by participating in the Climate Ambassador programme I hope to similarly inspire the students I teach to become advocates for climate action.
CORK

My name is John. I would like to help encourage people to become more Environmentally friendly. And I would like to try to communicate and make people more aware of Climate change and Environmental issues. We only have one planet and my whole life I felt we should try to protect it! There is a connection between Health, Nature, Quality of life and our Environment, and though I am always learning – I would like to try to help people become more Environmentally aware and on our impact on the Environment. Though human activity has caused many Environmental problems, I believe people & organisations can help find solutions and ways to become more Environmentally friendly or 'sustainable' – to help protect the Environment. Every little action helps and I would like to help in any way I can.
CORK

Hi! My name is Karen Wallace-Devilee. I'm a Guide Leader and Process Engineer and Mum to two amazing girls. I've always been passionate about the outdoors and natural world but having to frame things for the next generation was my Climate Catalyst. I decided to swap Anxiety for Action and here I am, looking to spark conversations :) I hope to work with all the amazing community groups we have here in Cork Harbour and really use the climate connections to make change for us all.
CORK

Hi, my name is Lilian Gleave, I’m the chairperson of the green schools committee at Kinsale Community school, a regional water ambassador, a lets fix fashion ambassador and was the inaugural winner of the DOE special award for ESD at the BT young scientist last year, for my project investigating fast fashion and discussing how to incentivize clothes mending. A passion for education for sustainable development and a target to connect people in our fight against climate change, inspired me to become a climate ambassador and I am so excited to see where this journey takes me!
LIMERICK

Hello! My name is Lisa, I live in Clare and I am a passionate environmentalist! I have volunteered in many areas related to climate action, such as organic farming, native tree planting and within environmental parks. I also have a Masters in Sustainable Resource Management from NUIG and UL. I am excited to be a Climate Ambassador and to get the opportunity to meet and learn from other like minded people. I hope to bring the knowledge, tools and my own experience into action within my workplace and local community.
CORK

My name is Niamh Guiry and I’m a PhD Researcher at the UCC School of Law. I have an interdisciplinary background (BSc in Microbiology, LL.M in Environmental Law & Graphic Design qualifications) and like to draw on these different perspectives to enact and demand climate action. I’ve been involved with climate activism for the past five years and have a keen interest in climate justice and biodiversity conservation. I’m a strong advocate for intersectional environmentalism and environmental collaboration. I recently co-founded the Nature Forum in Cork City, which seeks to positively influence policy on an institutional, local and national level and I also campaign for a fossil fuel-free future with Not Here Not Anywhere.
TIPPERARY

Currently based in Cloughjordan Ecovillage, Tipperary, I work with ‘Cultivate’, a national environmental NGO specialising in systems thinking and catalysing community-led initiatives for sustainability. I am also a research assistant with UCD Earth Institute’s ‘Just Transition Research Group’, i.e. how to make the transition to a sustainable low-carbon economy fair and equitable. I have been involved with climate activism and advocacy through grassroots organisations such as Extinction Rebellion Ireland and want to continue working to transform our societies so that sustainability, justice, and well-being become the basis on which we relate to one another, to nature, and to ourselves. I am delighted to be part of the Climate Ambassador 2022-2023 program. Knowing a heap of people who have passed through this program, I feel this is almost a rite of passage on my climate journey.
WATERFORD

My personal story is my motivation to leave the planet in a better place than it is now, and I believe that we all have a responsibility to take action towards this goal. My hope for the future is that we can work together to create a sustainable world where nature is respected and protected. I believe that through education, activism, and collective action, we can create a better future for ourselves and future generations.
KERRY

I'm interested in integrating biodiversity into the climate conversation to close the perceived gap between the two. I'm hoping that this programme will open avenues to achieve this and create an opportunity to collaborate with people.
ULSTER
DONEGAL

I’m Claire Thompson, I live near Malin Head, an area rich in different habitats from peatlands to ancient forest to coastal. I grew up in an environmentally aware family who understood deeply the importance of our natural heritage. My parents fostered an enduring love of the natural world and the need to protect it. I’m a herbalist, a forager and I teach nature connection, have a background in permaculture and biodynamics as well as being the Chairperson of the Inishowen Rivers Trust. With my partner, we grow microbes in a compost medium to repair and restore soil in farmlands, gardens and riparian areas. I’m hoping to raise more awareness of the destruction of nature and encourage local solutions.