Meet the Speakers
Learn more about the inspiring leaders, experts, and visionaries who will share their insights at the Global Sustainable Islands Summit 2025.
Hon. Dr. Joyelle Clarke
Senator the Hon Dr Joyelle Trizia Clarke, Minister of Sustainable Development, Environment, Climate Action and Constituency Empowerment is easily described as a Climate Action advocate, defender of youth involvement in decision- making, and a climate and gender justice specialist. Professionally, she became one of the youngest females to become a Director of a government office, the Department of Constituency Empowerment in 2012. Shortly thereafter, Dr Joyelle Clarke worked as an educator, bridging her passion for environment and youth together under the banner of one of the strongest youth-led environmental programmes in St Kitts and Nevis. The Cayon High School Environmental Club members became ambassadors for the students to a project called the St Mary’s UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Project which allowed for even more advocacy and youth-led conservation work. Dr Clarke has been involved in Social Impact Assessments and Sustainable livelihoods research for over 15 years. During this time, she has led projects on livelihoods-transition, conducted research and developed programs in various capacities as a government official and community activist. Her key livelihoods research focused on assessing the transition of former female sugar workers to tourism and agricultural livelihoods, post-sugar production in St Kitts. Dr Clarke has also been intimately involved in retraining exercises with key female groups of former sugar workers to retool and reskill women with the necessary assets for succeeding in new tourism-based livelihoods. The Honourable Minister’s project-related work ranges from livelihood support, community-based development initiatives, sustainable tourism and environmental conservation. She was engaged in developing and executing community-based projects in collaboration with community groups on behalf of the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis. Projects included climate change initiatives such as reforestation programs, and the establishment of school-based agricultural programs. She has worked extremely close with female farm cooperatives, assisting with the transition from traditional farming to environmentally friendly, climate resilient farming methods. So far, she has co-founded a mentorship program called, “Women Empowering Girls”; She serves as a mentor in GirlsCare Jamaica; Co-founder of a consultancy firm that assists companies and communities to shape mutually beneficial relationships, called Relate Consultancy. In addition to being a director and an educator, she sat on the Opposition benches as a Senator and advocated extensively for matters relating to the environment, climate action, youth empowerment and gender justice. Added to that, Hon Dr Clarke served as a Research Supervisor for the University of the West Indies and the Clarence Fitzroy Bryant College. All of her hard work, passion and dedication has now transitioned to this period of public service as she holds the title of Minister of Sustainable Development, Environment, Climate Action, and Constituency Empowerment. A portfolio aligned to her passion, her training and her advocacy.
Hon. Dr. Joyelle Clarke
Senator the Hon Dr Joyelle Trizia Clarke, Minister of Sustainable Development, Environment, Climate Action and Constituency Empowerment is easily described as a Climate Action advocate, defender of youth involvement in decision- making, and a climate and gender justice specialist. Professionally, she became one of the youngest females to become a Director of a government office, the Department of Constituency Empowerment in 2012. Shortly thereafter, Dr Joyelle Clarke worked as an educator, bridging her passion for environment and youth together under the banner of one of the strongest youth-led environmental programmes in St Kitts and Nevis. The Cayon High School Environmental Club members became ambassadors for the students to a project called the St Mary’s UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Project which allowed for even more advocacy and youth-led conservation work. Dr Clarke has been involved in Social Impact Assessments and Sustainable livelihoods research for over 15 years. During this time, she has led projects on livelihoods-transition, conducted research and developed programs in various capacities as a government official and community activist. Her key livelihoods research focused on assessing the transition of former female sugar workers to tourism and agricultural livelihoods, post-sugar production in St Kitts. Dr Clarke has also been intimately involved in retraining exercises with key female groups of former sugar workers to retool and reskill women with the necessary assets for succeeding in new tourism-based livelihoods. The Honourable Minister’s project-related work ranges from livelihood support, community-based development initiatives, sustainable tourism and environmental conservation. She was engaged in developing and executing community-based projects in collaboration with community groups on behalf of the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis. Projects included climate change initiatives such as reforestation programs, and the establishment of school-based agricultural programs. She has worked extremely close with female farm cooperatives, assisting with the transition from traditional farming to environmentally friendly, climate resilient farming methods. So far, she has co-founded a mentorship program called, “Women Empowering Girls”; She serves as a mentor in GirlsCare Jamaica; Co-founder of a consultancy firm that assists companies and communities to shape mutually beneficial relationships, called Relate Consultancy. In addition to being a director and an educator, she sat on the Opposition benches as a Senator and advocated extensively for matters relating to the environment, climate action, youth empowerment and gender justice. Added to that, Hon Dr Clarke served as a Research Supervisor for the University of the West Indies and the Clarence Fitzroy Bryant College. All of her hard work, passion and dedication has now transitioned to this period of public service as she holds the title of Minister of Sustainable Development, Environment, Climate Action, and Constituency Empowerment. A portfolio aligned to her passion, her training and her advocacy.
Minister of Sustainable Development, St Kitts and Nevis
Parliamentary Secretary within the Office of the Premier, Government of Montserrat
Quincia Gumbs-Marie
Former Member of Parliament Quincia Gumbs Marie is a passionate environmentalist and a strong proponent of balanced development that respects both the environment and the economy. She fervently promotes the establishment of a universal global funding architecture that is democratic and accessible, ensuring that everyone has a fair chance to protect our planet’s resources. Her unwavering commitment to sustainability makes her a formidable force in advancing environmental policies that promote a harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature.
Quincia Gumbs-Marie
Former Member of Parliament Quincia Gumbs Marie is a passionate environmentalist and a strong proponent of balanced development that respects both the environment and the economy. She fervently promotes the establishment of a universal global funding architecture that is democratic and accessible, ensuring that everyone has a fair chance to protect our planet’s resources. Her unwavering commitment to sustainability makes her a formidable force in advancing environmental policies that promote a harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature.
Former Member of Parliament, Anguilla
Hon. Edward David Burt
The Hon. E. David Burt, JP, MP Premier the Hon. E. David Burt, JP, MP, is Bermuda’s youngest Premier. He is a graduate of The George Washington University in Washington, D.C., where he graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Business Administration with a double major in Finance and Information Systems. He was awarded The George Washington University Presidential Administrative Fellowship and received his Master’s of Science degree in Information Systems Development in 2003. Mr. Burt attained a Project Management Professional certification in 2009. He is also a licensed private pilot. An entrepreneur, Premier Burt started GMD Consulting Limited, an IT consulting company focusing on project management. He served as President since its inception until 2016 when he stepped down upon being appointed Leader of the Opposition. Premier Burt co- founded HITCH Limited and was the lead developer for the award winning HITCH Mobile App enabling Bermuda residents to hail taxis. In the past, Premier Burt has served on the Tourism Board, National Training Board, as a Director of the Bermuda Chamber of Commerce, and has been a Director of the Bermuda Economic Development Corporation. Mr. Burt is also active in local and international public service and community organizations. He is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, the Western Stars Sports Club, and the Devonshire Recreation Club. Premier Burt and his wife Kristin have two children, Nia and Edward
Hon. Edward David Burt
The Hon. E. David Burt, JP, MP Premier the Hon. E. David Burt, JP, MP, is Bermuda’s youngest Premier. He is a graduate of The George Washington University in Washington, D.C., where he graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Business Administration with a double major in Finance and Information Systems. He was awarded The George Washington University Presidential Administrative Fellowship and received his Master’s of Science degree in Information Systems Development in 2003. Mr. Burt attained a Project Management Professional certification in 2009. He is also a licensed private pilot. An entrepreneur, Premier Burt started GMD Consulting Limited, an IT consulting company focusing on project management. He served as President since its inception until 2016 when he stepped down upon being appointed Leader of the Opposition. Premier Burt co- founded HITCH Limited and was the lead developer for the award winning HITCH Mobile App enabling Bermuda residents to hail taxis. In the past, Premier Burt has served on the Tourism Board, National Training Board, as a Director of the Bermuda Chamber of Commerce, and has been a Director of the Bermuda Economic Development Corporation. Mr. Burt is also active in local and international public service and community organizations. He is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, the Western Stars Sports Club, and the Devonshire Recreation Club. Premier Burt and his wife Kristin have two children, Nia and Edward
Premier, Government of Bermuda
Special Representative of the President of Azerbaijan for Climate Issues, Government of Azerbaijan
UK Special Envoy for Small Island Developing States (SIDS)
Special Envoy for the BES islands for EU and UN and Economic Development with Latin America and Caribbean
Minister of Public Works and the Environment, Government of Bermuda
Dr. Aitazaz A. Farooque
Dr. Farooque’s research focuses on fundamental understanding and development of state of the art precision agriculture (PA) technologies for Eastern Canada’s agriculture industry. Development of innovative and novel PA systems utilizes knowledge of engineering design, development and management, instrumentation, design and evaluation of sensors and controllers, development of hardware and software for automation of machines to sense targets in real-time for spot application of agrochemicals on an as-needed basis to improve farm profitability while maintaining environmental sustainability.
Dr. Farooque is actively working on machine vision, application of multispectral and thermal imagery using drone technology, delineation of management zones for site-specific fertilization, electromagnetic induction methods, remote sensing, and digital photography technique for mapping, bio-systems modeling, artificial neural network, deep learning, analog and digital sensor integration into agricultural equipment for real-time soil, plant, and yield mapping. Dr. Farooque has been evaluating the variable rate technologies for potential environmental risks.
Dr. Farooque has been very successful in securing research funding from Natural Science and Engineering Council of Canada, Provincial and Federal Governments and agriculture industry. He has been supervising undergraduate and graduate students, research assistants, and post-doctoral fellow at UPEI and other collaborating institutions. Dr. Farooque highlighted the significance of his research in peer-reviewed journals, conference proceedings, workshops, industry meetings and farmer’s field days.
Dr. Aitazaz A. Farooque
Dr. Farooque’s research focuses on fundamental understanding and development of state of the art precision agriculture (PA) technologies for Eastern Canada’s agriculture industry. Development of innovative and novel PA systems utilizes knowledge of engineering design, development and management, instrumentation, design and evaluation of sensors and controllers, development of hardware and software for automation of machines to sense targets in real-time for spot application of agrochemicals on an as-needed basis to improve farm profitability while maintaining environmental sustainability.
Dr. Farooque is actively working on machine vision, application of multispectral and thermal imagery using drone technology, delineation of management zones for site-specific fertilization, electromagnetic induction methods, remote sensing, and digital photography technique for mapping, bio-systems modeling, artificial neural network, deep learning, analog and digital sensor integration into agricultural equipment for real-time soil, plant, and yield mapping. Dr. Farooque has been evaluating the variable rate technologies for potential environmental risks.
Dr. Farooque has been very successful in securing research funding from Natural Science and Engineering Council of Canada, Provincial and Federal Governments and agriculture industry. He has been supervising undergraduate and graduate students, research assistants, and post-doctoral fellow at UPEI and other collaborating institutions. Dr. Farooque highlighted the significance of his research in peer-reviewed journals, conference proceedings, workshops, industry meetings and farmer’s field days.
Professor & Associate Dean, Canadian Centre for Climate Change and Adaptation, University of Prince Edward Island
Vanessa Toré
Vanessa Toré was born and raised in Curaçao, Dutch Caribbean. She is the Director of the Foreign Economic Cooperation Division of the Ministry of Economic Development of Curaçao. She was also the acting Secretary General of the Ministry of Economic Development until May 2014. She has held both positions since respectively July and August of 2011. In June 2015 she assumed a new challenge by becoming a Policy Advisor to the Minister of Traffic, Transport and Urban Planning. From November 1994 till June 2011 she worked at the Curaçao Chamber of Commerce and Industry (17 years). She was the manager of the Investment, Trade Promotion and Business Services department where she designed and implemented various programs and services for entrepreneurs, SME’s, Investors and Exporters. She holds an MBA degree and has followed training in Management, International trade and Investment promotion in Geneva, Netherlands, USA and Canada. She participated in various trade related committees internationally and recently she served a two year term on the board of the Caribbean Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (CAIPA). She speaks Papiamentu (mother language), Dutch, English and Spanish fluently and communicates at an intermediate level in Brazilian Portuguese. In her spare time she dedicates time voluntarily to Culture where she is active in the Jazz Scene of Curaçao promoting local Jazz musicians internationally.
Vanessa Toré
Vanessa Toré was born and raised in Curaçao, Dutch Caribbean. She is the Director of the Foreign Economic Cooperation Division of the Ministry of Economic Development of Curaçao. She was also the acting Secretary General of the Ministry of Economic Development until May 2014. She has held both positions since respectively July and August of 2011. In June 2015 she assumed a new challenge by becoming a Policy Advisor to the Minister of Traffic, Transport and Urban Planning. From November 1994 till June 2011 she worked at the Curaçao Chamber of Commerce and Industry (17 years). She was the manager of the Investment, Trade Promotion and Business Services department where she designed and implemented various programs and services for entrepreneurs, SME’s, Investors and Exporters. She holds an MBA degree and has followed training in Management, International trade and Investment promotion in Geneva, Netherlands, USA and Canada. She participated in various trade related committees internationally and recently she served a two year term on the board of the Caribbean Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (CAIPA). She speaks Papiamentu (mother language), Dutch, English and Spanish fluently and communicates at an intermediate level in Brazilian Portuguese. In her spare time she dedicates time voluntarily to Culture where she is active in the Jazz Scene of Curaçao promoting local Jazz musicians internationally.
Director of Foreign Economic Cooperation, Ministry of Economic Development, Government of Curacao
Lavern Mcfarlane
Dr. Lavern McFarlane is currently employed at the CARICOM Development Fund (CDF) as the Senior Economist where she provides intellectual leadership relating to all aspects of economic analysis and contributes to the strategic direction of the institution. Lavern leads and conducts economic research and develop empirical models relating to financial innovation, regional integration and cohesion. She is responsible for developing various policy options, strategies and proposals relating to integration, cohesion and development of competitive regional economies. She spearheaded the development of the CARICOM Cohesion Policy and successfully negotiated the approval by the CARICOM Heads of Government in February 2020and is integrally involved with the policy implementation. Dr. McFarlane was co-lead on the development of the Credit Risk Abatement Facility (CRAF) – an innovative credit enhancement instrument of the CDF, where she is the Chief Underwriter. She is also leading on the development of a Resilience Fund aimed at addressing financing for climate adaptation and mitigation in CARICOM
Lavern Mcfarlane
Dr. Lavern McFarlane is currently employed at the CARICOM Development Fund (CDF) as the Senior Economist where she provides intellectual leadership relating to all aspects of economic analysis and contributes to the strategic direction of the institution. Lavern leads and conducts economic research and develop empirical models relating to financial innovation, regional integration and cohesion. She is responsible for developing various policy options, strategies and proposals relating to integration, cohesion and development of competitive regional economies. She spearheaded the development of the CARICOM Cohesion Policy and successfully negotiated the approval by the CARICOM Heads of Government in February 2020and is integrally involved with the policy implementation. Dr. McFarlane was co-lead on the development of the Credit Risk Abatement Facility (CRAF) – an innovative credit enhancement instrument of the CDF, where she is the Chief Underwriter. She is also leading on the development of a Resilience Fund aimed at addressing financing for climate adaptation and mitigation in CARICOM
Senior Economist, CARICOM Development Fund
Chair, Marine Ecosystems Protected Areas (MEPA) Trust
Liaison Cabinet Special Envoy for Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba to the EU, UN and economic development in Latin-America and the Caribbean
Vice-president of Operations, The Caribbean Development Bank
Deputy Executive Director, Caribbean Export Development Agency
Executive Director, The Caribbean Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (CCREEE)
Regional Director, Commonwealth Caribbean, Department for Business and Trade, British High Commission
David O’Sullivan
David is from Ireland, a relatively small but formidable island in the Northeast Atlantic. He is a Marine Biologist and has been with Ireland’s Marine Institute for over 14 years across a number of sections. Previous research involved mapping larval transportation models, which contributed to sustainable management of commercial fish stocks and provided practical advice on marine-spatial planning. With INFOMAR, Ireland’s national seabed mapping programme, he developed the value-added and education program to help translate complex seabed mapping data to a range of audiences.
He has completed multiple offshore and onshore surveys including hydrographic, geophysical, fisheries and biological exploration. The latter included 152 ROV dives as Chief Scientist of a high impact, marine biodiversity assessment project, the EMFF Offshore Reef Survey ‘SeaRover’, which supported marine management and planning decisions in Ireland. David is currently Programme Manager for Our Shared Ocean, a funding initiative from the Gov. of Ireland to support research, knowledge exchange and capacity building in partnership with Small Island Developing States and he manages 22 Ocean Research Projects based throughout the global SIDS. He has also developed multiple training opportunities for SIDS participants with various partners including Island Innovation and the UN Ocean Decade. He currently sits on the the IOC Group of Experts for Capacity Development.
David O’Sullivan
David is from Ireland, a relatively small but formidable island in the Northeast Atlantic. He is a Marine Biologist and has been with Ireland’s Marine Institute for over 14 years across a number of sections. Previous research involved mapping larval transportation models, which contributed to sustainable management of commercial fish stocks and provided practical advice on marine-spatial planning. With INFOMAR, Ireland’s national seabed mapping programme, he developed the value-added and education program to help translate complex seabed mapping data to a range of audiences.
He has completed multiple offshore and onshore surveys including hydrographic, geophysical, fisheries and biological exploration. The latter included 152 ROV dives as Chief Scientist of a high impact, marine biodiversity assessment project, the EMFF Offshore Reef Survey ‘SeaRover’, which supported marine management and planning decisions in Ireland. David is currently Programme Manager for Our Shared Ocean, a funding initiative from the Gov. of Ireland to support research, knowledge exchange and capacity building in partnership with Small Island Developing States and he manages 22 Ocean Research Projects based throughout the global SIDS. He has also developed multiple training opportunities for SIDS participants with various partners including Island Innovation and the UN Ocean Decade. He currently sits on the the IOC Group of Experts for Capacity Development.
Our Shared Ocean - Program Manager, Irish Marine Institute
Kiesha Farnum
Kiesha is an experienced organisational and project management professional with over 19 years of experience, focused on innovation for growth across a variety of sustainable development sectors. She has worked across 28 countries with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), the former Department of Foreign Affairs and Development (DFAT-D) of the Government of Canada and the former Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID). Her work has traversed several thematic areas including climate change, eco-agritourism, regenerative agriculture, active labour market stimulation, as well as, education and leadership development for the public and private sector. She also gained extensive experience in program management and organizational leadership for NGOs during her tenure at the National Centre for Persons with Disabilities in Trinidad & Tobago. A firm believer in volunteerism, she continues to commit her time and expertise to various NGOs. In her role as Managing Director, at the Walkers Institute for Regenerative Research, Education and Design (WIRRED) Kiesha focused her efforts on the establishment of a not-for-profit think tank, research centre and consultancy dedicated to climate change and regenerative agroforestry practices. The organization is committed to the implementation of climate-smart strategies which demonstrate that ecosystem-based mitigation and adaptation offer tremendous opportunities in achieving climate resilience. She continues to serve on the Board of Directors of WIRRED, working with a talented team to offer nature base solutions geared towards building habitat, increasing biodiversity and sequestering carbon, while reconnecting people to nature through eco-agritourism and educational experiences. Currently, Kiesha is the Director of Public Sector Projects with Caribbean Climate-Smart Accelerator (CCSA) where she continues to work to catalyse a multi-sector network that includes the private sector, public sector, academia, various industry sectors & economies and the community across the region and internationally. Kiesha holds a M.Sc. in Project Management, with a specialization in the Economics of Oil and Gas (& Renewable Energy) from the University of Liverpool, a BSc. in Psychology with a minor in Sociology & Management, from the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus, is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) and has trained as an Executive Coach with Erickson Coaching International.
Kiesha Farnum
Kiesha is an experienced organisational and project management professional with over 19 years of experience, focused on innovation for growth across a variety of sustainable development sectors. She has worked across 28 countries with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), the former Department of Foreign Affairs and Development (DFAT-D) of the Government of Canada and the former Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID). Her work has traversed several thematic areas including climate change, eco-agritourism, regenerative agriculture, active labour market stimulation, as well as, education and leadership development for the public and private sector. She also gained extensive experience in program management and organizational leadership for NGOs during her tenure at the National Centre for Persons with Disabilities in Trinidad & Tobago. A firm believer in volunteerism, she continues to commit her time and expertise to various NGOs. In her role as Managing Director, at the Walkers Institute for Regenerative Research, Education and Design (WIRRED) Kiesha focused her efforts on the establishment of a not-for-profit think tank, research centre and consultancy dedicated to climate change and regenerative agroforestry practices. The organization is committed to the implementation of climate-smart strategies which demonstrate that ecosystem-based mitigation and adaptation offer tremendous opportunities in achieving climate resilience. She continues to serve on the Board of Directors of WIRRED, working with a talented team to offer nature base solutions geared towards building habitat, increasing biodiversity and sequestering carbon, while reconnecting people to nature through eco-agritourism and educational experiences. Currently, Kiesha is the Director of Public Sector Projects with Caribbean Climate-Smart Accelerator (CCSA) where she continues to work to catalyse a multi-sector network that includes the private sector, public sector, academia, various industry sectors & economies and the community across the region and internationally. Kiesha holds a M.Sc. in Project Management, with a specialization in the Economics of Oil and Gas (& Renewable Energy) from the University of Liverpool, a BSc. in Psychology with a minor in Sociology & Management, from the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus, is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) and has trained as an Executive Coach with Erickson Coaching International.
Head of Partnerships and Programmes, The Caribbean Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Centre (CCREEE)
James Ellsmoor
I am the Founder and Director of Island Innovation, which I started after seeing the opportunity to connect rural and island locations around the world working on similar development issues. Island Innovation began with a newsletter and a series of virtual events, and has evolved into a community of over 127,000 members.
In addition to founding Island Innovation I am also the co-founder of Solar Head of State (SHOS), which works with governments to push action on renewable energy. The NGO has focused on small island developing states (SIDS) with solar installations on the Office of the Prime Minister of Jamaica, Government House in Saint Lucia and the Presidential Palace of the Maldives. SHOS is now working with the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States and the Pacific Island Development Forum to install solar on the official residences across these organizations’ combined 24 member states.
I grew up on a farm in Shropshire, England, and after working in the Caribbean, United States and Colombia I have settled in Lisbon, Portugal. My Master’s Degree is in “Island Studies” from the University of the Highlands and Islands.
James Ellsmoor
I am the Founder and Director of Island Innovation, which I started after seeing the opportunity to connect rural and island locations around the world working on similar development issues. Island Innovation began with a newsletter and a series of virtual events, and has evolved into a community of over 127,000 members.
In addition to founding Island Innovation I am also the co-founder of Solar Head of State (SHOS), which works with governments to push action on renewable energy. The NGO has focused on small island developing states (SIDS) with solar installations on the Office of the Prime Minister of Jamaica, Government House in Saint Lucia and the Presidential Palace of the Maldives. SHOS is now working with the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States and the Pacific Island Development Forum to install solar on the official residences across these organizations’ combined 24 member states.
I grew up on a farm in Shropshire, England, and after working in the Caribbean, United States and Colombia I have settled in Lisbon, Portugal. My Master’s Degree is in “Island Studies” from the University of the Highlands and Islands.
Chief Executive Officer, Island Innovation
Minister of Economic Development, Industry, Commerce, Lands, Planning, Water and Natural Resources, Government of Anguilla
Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Marine Resources and Cooperatives, Small Business and Entrepreneurship, Sports and The Creative Economy and Entertainment and The Arts, Government of St. Kitts and Nevis
Special Representative of the President of Azerbaijan for Climate Issues, Government of Azerbaijan
Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, International Transport, Employment and Labour and Urban Development, Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis
Minister, Ministry of Gender Affairs and Social Empowerment of Nevis
Minister of Tourism, Agriculture, Fisheries, Government of the Turks and Caicos Islands
Executive Director, Caribbean Division, The Nature Conservancy
Karen McDonald-Gayle
Karen McDonald Gayle is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Caribbean Biodiversity Fund – the CBF. The CBF is a regional umbrella environmental fund that uses a flexible structure to facilitate innovative solutions and consolidate regional conservation impacts. With over 25 years of experience in civil society participation, public sector policy development, and project design, Karen is a regional expert in Conservation Trust Fund (CTF) management. She has served as the CEO of Jamaica’s largest environmental grant- making institution – the Environmental Foundation of Jamaica (EFJ) and has worked regionally with the United States Agency for International Development and the United Nations Environment Program. A Jamaican national, Karen has served on multiple national boards and is also a founding member of the Jamaica Institute of Environmental Professionals.
Karen McDonald-Gayle
Karen McDonald Gayle is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Caribbean Biodiversity Fund – the CBF. The CBF is a regional umbrella environmental fund that uses a flexible structure to facilitate innovative solutions and consolidate regional conservation impacts. With over 25 years of experience in civil society participation, public sector policy development, and project design, Karen is a regional expert in Conservation Trust Fund (CTF) management. She has served as the CEO of Jamaica’s largest environmental grant- making institution – the Environmental Foundation of Jamaica (EFJ) and has worked regionally with the United States Agency for International Development and the United Nations Environment Program. A Jamaican national, Karen has served on multiple national boards and is also a founding member of the Jamaica Institute of Environmental Professionals.
CEO, Caribbean Biodiversity Fund
Olly Newton
Olly Newton spent 12 years in the Department for Education working on policies including 14-19 diplomas, raising the participation age and finally as Head of Apprenticeship Strategy. Olly is now Executive Director of the Edge Foundation, where he oversees a programme of primary research, is lead author on all of the charity’s policy reports and runs the Edge Future Learning delivery programme for schools and colleges. At Edge, Olly founded the Island Education Network to support and connect islands around the UK and overseas with their education work. In his spare time, Olly volunteers with the Scout Association, is Enterprise Adviser for Firth Park Academy and supports community theatre in Sheffield.
Olly Newton
Olly Newton spent 12 years in the Department for Education working on policies including 14-19 diplomas, raising the participation age and finally as Head of Apprenticeship Strategy. Olly is now Executive Director of the Edge Foundation, where he oversees a programme of primary research, is lead author on all of the charity’s policy reports and runs the Edge Future Learning delivery programme for schools and colleges. At Edge, Olly founded the Island Education Network to support and connect islands around the UK and overseas with their education work. In his spare time, Olly volunteers with the Scout Association, is Enterprise Adviser for Firth Park Academy and supports community theatre in Sheffield.
Executive Director, Edge Foundation
Minister of Communication, Public Works, Water Services, Physical Planning & Environment, Posts, Labour and Disaster Management, Nevis Island Administration
General Manager, Nevis Electricity Company Limited
Hon. Lourdes “Lou” A. Leon Guerrero
The Honorable Lourdes “Lou” Aflague Leon Guerrero is the ninth Governor of Guam and the first female governor of the territory. She is also a registered nurse, a businesswoman, a policymaker, a mother, and a grandmother.
Since taking office in January 2019, she eliminated GovGuam’s $83 million general fund deficit, paid tax refunds the fastest in Guam’s history, raised salaries for nurses, law enforcement officers, and teachers, and ended two costly federal receiverships. Within her first year in office, she worked with the Guam Legislature to raise the minimum wage, legalize cannabis, and deliver millions in long-overdue war reparations to Guam’s World War II survivors.
Within months of the unprecedented global pandemic, Governor Leon Guerrero created the island’s first-ever unemployment program, providing $808 million to over 30,000 displaced workers. This is in addition to over $100 million in direct aid distributed to over 2,500 local businesses and multiple innovative programs to aid Guam families in recovery. Under her leadership, Guam also achieved one of the highest vaccination rates in the nation. She continues to champion healthcare initiatives, including establishing the island’s first-ever paramedic program, and she is currently on a mission to rebuild Guam’s only decades-old public hospital.
A graduate of the Academy of Our Lady of Guam (AOLG), Governor Leon Guerrero embarked on a career in nursing, earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from California State University and later a Master of Public Health from UCLA. She has worked as a staff nurse in hospitals in both California and Guam. Governor Leon Guerrero has also held several management positions in health care at the Guam Memorial Hospital and FHP Inc. and served on the GMHA Board of Trustees. To this day, Governor Leon Guerrero continues to be passionate about health care and has maintained her licensure as a registered nurse.
Hon. Lourdes “Lou” A. Leon Guerrero
The Honorable Lourdes “Lou” Aflague Leon Guerrero is the ninth Governor of Guam and the first female governor of the territory. She is also a registered nurse, a businesswoman, a policymaker, a mother, and a grandmother.
Since taking office in January 2019, she eliminated GovGuam’s $83 million general fund deficit, paid tax refunds the fastest in Guam’s history, raised salaries for nurses, law enforcement officers, and teachers, and ended two costly federal receiverships. Within her first year in office, she worked with the Guam Legislature to raise the minimum wage, legalize cannabis, and deliver millions in long-overdue war reparations to Guam’s World War II survivors.
Within months of the unprecedented global pandemic, Governor Leon Guerrero created the island’s first-ever unemployment program, providing $808 million to over 30,000 displaced workers. This is in addition to over $100 million in direct aid distributed to over 2,500 local businesses and multiple innovative programs to aid Guam families in recovery. Under her leadership, Guam also achieved one of the highest vaccination rates in the nation. She continues to champion healthcare initiatives, including establishing the island’s first-ever paramedic program, and she is currently on a mission to rebuild Guam’s only decades-old public hospital.
A graduate of the Academy of Our Lady of Guam (AOLG), Governor Leon Guerrero embarked on a career in nursing, earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from California State University and later a Master of Public Health from UCLA. She has worked as a staff nurse in hospitals in both California and Guam. Governor Leon Guerrero has also held several management positions in health care at the Guam Memorial Hospital and FHP Inc. and served on the GMHA Board of Trustees. To this day, Governor Leon Guerrero continues to be passionate about health care and has maintained her licensure as a registered nurse.
Governor, Government of Guam
Hon. Mark Brantley
Mark Brantley is a lawyer and politician from Saint Kitts and Nevis. He holds a law degree from the University of the West Indies and practiced extensively before entering politics in 2006.
He served as Leader of the Opposition in the Federal Parliament from 2007 to 2015 and became Deputy Premier of Nevis in 2013. He was appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs and Aviation in the federal government in 2015 and held the position until 2022.
Brantley became Premier of Nevis in 2017 and led his party to victory in the 2022 Nevis Island Assembly elections, securing a second term as Premier. He currently serves as Leader of the Opposition in the Federal Parliament.
Hon. Mark Brantley
Mark Brantley is a lawyer and politician from Saint Kitts and Nevis. He holds a law degree from the University of the West Indies and practiced extensively before entering politics in 2006.
He served as Leader of the Opposition in the Federal Parliament from 2007 to 2015 and became Deputy Premier of Nevis in 2013. He was appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs and Aviation in the federal government in 2015 and held the position until 2022.
Brantley became Premier of Nevis in 2017 and led his party to victory in the 2022 Nevis Island Assembly elections, securing a second term as Premier. He currently serves as Leader of the Opposition in the Federal Parliament.
Premier of Nevis, Nevis Island Administration
Director, Department of Lands and Surveys, Ministry of Sustainable Development, Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis
Carla Gautier Castro
BSA, M.Arch, Dr. (h.c.), LEED GA Carla Gautier Castro is a third-generation architect from Puerto Rico with a strong commitment to community and sustainability. She earned her BA, M.Arch, and an honorary doctorate (Dr. h.c.) from Wentworth Institute of Technology (WIT) in Boston, where she focused on eco-friendly design. Her studies and work took her to Berlin and Benin, where she gained valuable experience in sustainable construction. In 2017, Carla returned to Puerto Rico just before Hurricane María. While working as a FEMA construction inspector, she saw how bureaucracy delayed recovery efforts, which inspired her to found KONTi Design in San Juan. KONTi specializes in building sustainable, resilient homes using recycled materials like shipping containers and structural steel. These homes are designed to withstand hurricanes and earthquakes, ranging from affordable to luxury markets. Carla’s firm also achieved the first LEED Platinum-certified single-family residence in the Caribbean, proving that eco-friendly construction can be profitable for homeowners. Carla has been recognized as a CNN Champion for Change, a Grist 50 Fixer, and a member of Forbes 30 Under 30. She is also a Re-Generation Future Leaders Fellow. Outside of her work, Carla enjoys hiking, swimming, sailing, scuba diving, and all things related to the ocean. She also loves traveling to learn from different cultures.
Carla Gautier Castro
BSA, M.Arch, Dr. (h.c.), LEED GA Carla Gautier Castro is a third-generation architect from Puerto Rico with a strong commitment to community and sustainability. She earned her BA, M.Arch, and an honorary doctorate (Dr. h.c.) from Wentworth Institute of Technology (WIT) in Boston, where she focused on eco-friendly design. Her studies and work took her to Berlin and Benin, where she gained valuable experience in sustainable construction. In 2017, Carla returned to Puerto Rico just before Hurricane María. While working as a FEMA construction inspector, she saw how bureaucracy delayed recovery efforts, which inspired her to found KONTi Design in San Juan. KONTi specializes in building sustainable, resilient homes using recycled materials like shipping containers and structural steel. These homes are designed to withstand hurricanes and earthquakes, ranging from affordable to luxury markets. Carla’s firm also achieved the first LEED Platinum-certified single-family residence in the Caribbean, proving that eco-friendly construction can be profitable for homeowners. Carla has been recognized as a CNN Champion for Change, a Grist 50 Fixer, and a member of Forbes 30 Under 30. She is also a Re-Generation Future Leaders Fellow. Outside of her work, Carla enjoys hiking, swimming, sailing, scuba diving, and all things related to the ocean. She also loves traveling to learn from different cultures.
Founder & CEO, KONTi Design Build Studio
Executive Vice President - Business Development, Ormat Technologies
Vice President Exploration & Resource Management, Ormat Technologies
Andressa Ferraz
Andressa Ferraz is the Sustainability Advisory Service Manager for the EMEA region at ABB Electrification Service, where she leads initiatives that enable customers to fully harness electrification, renewable energy, and digitalization in their journey to net zero. In her role, Andressa develops data-driven strategies that enable businesses to reduce emissions and enhance operational efficiency. Additionally, she supports customers in improving the accessibility and adoption of energy storage solutions, facilitating the integration of renewable energy sources into their operations.
Andressa holds a Master’s in Business Administration from London Metropolitan University, a Master’s in Control & Automation Engineering from Universidade Paulista, and a Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering from California State University Long Beach. She is also a member of the Institution of Engineering and Technology and IEEE Power & Energy Society.
Andressa Ferraz
Andressa Ferraz is the Sustainability Advisory Service Manager for the EMEA region at ABB Electrification Service, where she leads initiatives that enable customers to fully harness electrification, renewable energy, and digitalization in their journey to net zero. In her role, Andressa develops data-driven strategies that enable businesses to reduce emissions and enhance operational efficiency. Additionally, she supports customers in improving the accessibility and adoption of energy storage solutions, facilitating the integration of renewable energy sources into their operations.
Andressa holds a Master’s in Business Administration from London Metropolitan University, a Master’s in Control & Automation Engineering from Universidade Paulista, and a Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering from California State University Long Beach. She is also a member of the Institution of Engineering and Technology and IEEE Power & Energy Society.
Sustainability Advisory Service Manager EMEA Region, ABB
Director Of Business Development, Ormat Technologies
Eustace T. Wallace
Eustace T. Wallace is a distinguished son of the Federation of St Kitts and Nevis. He hails from Hamilton Estate on the island of Nevis. A diplomat, international affairs professional, a climate advocate and a strategic communicator, he excelled in the field of International Relations at Brock University and the University of Toronto where he pursued graduate and postgraduate degrees with First Class Honours focusing on the regionalization of global governance regimes. He also holds certificates from the Diplomatic Academy of Vienna, the Foreign Service Training Center of Turkey, and the Foreign Service Training Academy of Germany. He also pursued diplomatic training in Malta at the Diplo Foundation and in India at their Foreign Service Institute.
Currently, he serves the Federation of St Kitts and Nevis as Minister Counselor at its Permanent Mission to the United Nations. He works to secure win-win geostrategic and economic partnerships bilaterally and multilaterally, including across civil society, business and philanthropy. Prior to his posting in New York, he served at the High Commission of St. Kitts and Nevis in Canada and in the UK and at the regional level at the Embassies of the Eastern Caribbean States to Belgium and the European Union. In Brussels, he was part of the team that successfully lobbied and negotiated the Schengen visa waivers for OECS countries to facilitate green trade, investment and tourism between the EU and the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States.
He is an alumnus of the first Emerging Leaders Program of the Atlantic Dialogues which is a transatlantic initiative developed by the Policy Center of the New South based in Morocco as well an alum of the Atlantic Strategy Group.
Eustace T. Wallace
Eustace T. Wallace is a distinguished son of the Federation of St Kitts and Nevis. He hails from Hamilton Estate on the island of Nevis. A diplomat, international affairs professional, a climate advocate and a strategic communicator, he excelled in the field of International Relations at Brock University and the University of Toronto where he pursued graduate and postgraduate degrees with First Class Honours focusing on the regionalization of global governance regimes. He also holds certificates from the Diplomatic Academy of Vienna, the Foreign Service Training Center of Turkey, and the Foreign Service Training Academy of Germany. He also pursued diplomatic training in Malta at the Diplo Foundation and in India at their Foreign Service Institute.
Currently, he serves the Federation of St Kitts and Nevis as Minister Counselor at its Permanent Mission to the United Nations. He works to secure win-win geostrategic and economic partnerships bilaterally and multilaterally, including across civil society, business and philanthropy. Prior to his posting in New York, he served at the High Commission of St. Kitts and Nevis in Canada and in the UK and at the regional level at the Embassies of the Eastern Caribbean States to Belgium and the European Union. In Brussels, he was part of the team that successfully lobbied and negotiated the Schengen visa waivers for OECS countries to facilitate green trade, investment and tourism between the EU and the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States.
He is an alumnus of the first Emerging Leaders Program of the Atlantic Dialogues which is a transatlantic initiative developed by the Policy Center of the New South based in Morocco as well an alum of the Atlantic Strategy Group.
Minister Counselor, Permanent Mission of St. Kitts and Nevis to the United Nations
CEO & Food Waste Strategist - Siel Environmental Services Limited
Marie Curie European Research Office, Islands & Small States Institute, University of Malta
Alicia Nicholls
Alicia Nicholls is the Junior Research Fellow with the SRC. She is also a member of the teaching faculty of the SRC’s flagship Masters in International Trade Policy (MITP). Alicia first joined the SRC as a Research Consultant in 2010-2011 after graduating the MITP programme (Cohort 6) with distinction in 2010. In April 2019, Alicia rejoined the SRC team full-time initially as a Trade Research Assistant. She recently completed the Research Supervision course and the Post-Graduate Diploma in University Teaching and Learning (PGCUTL).
Alicia Nicholls
Alicia Nicholls is the Junior Research Fellow with the SRC. She is also a member of the teaching faculty of the SRC’s flagship Masters in International Trade Policy (MITP). Alicia first joined the SRC as a Research Consultant in 2010-2011 after graduating the MITP programme (Cohort 6) with distinction in 2010. In April 2019, Alicia rejoined the SRC team full-time initially as a Trade Research Assistant. She recently completed the Research Supervision course and the Post-Graduate Diploma in University Teaching and Learning (PGCUTL).
Research Fellow, Shridath Ramphal Centre, The University of the West Indies
Dr. Stefano Moncada
Stefano Moncada, Ph.D. in Economics, he lectures and conducts research in the areas of development, poverty, climate-change, islands and small states studies, with a focus on small island developing states (SIDS). Prior to join academia, Stefano worked in the Italian Parliament as policy analyst. Stefano is the Director of the Islands and Small States Institute, senior lecturer and researcher, part of the Executive Committee of the European Association of Development and Training Institutes (EADI), Coordinating Lead Author for the Mediterranean Experts on Climate and Environmental Change (MedECC), and acts as expert reviewer for the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).
Dr. Stefano Moncada
Stefano Moncada, Ph.D. in Economics, he lectures and conducts research in the areas of development, poverty, climate-change, islands and small states studies, with a focus on small island developing states (SIDS). Prior to join academia, Stefano worked in the Italian Parliament as policy analyst. Stefano is the Director of the Islands and Small States Institute, senior lecturer and researcher, part of the Executive Committee of the European Association of Development and Training Institutes (EADI), Coordinating Lead Author for the Mediterranean Experts on Climate and Environmental Change (MedECC), and acts as expert reviewer for the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).
Professor and Director, Islands and Small States Institute, University of Malta
Chief Executive Officer, Caribbean Industrial Research Institute (CARIRI)
Dr. Preeya Mohan
Dr Preeya Mohan is a Caribbean scholar, whose passion for Caribbean sustainability has influenced her research and numerous publications on critical issues of climate resilience, disaster risk management and sustainable development in Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Her research topics are intersectional in scope and are aimed at finding solutions to the pressing developmental challenges facing the region. She is a Senior Fellow at the Sir Arthur Lewis Institute of Social and Economic Studies (SALISES), The University of the West Indies, St Augustine. As a recipient of several research grants and awards Dr Mohan has worked on various research projects funded by international bodies including the Inter- American Development Bank, the International Development Research Centre and the Social Sciences Humanities Research Council of Canada. Dr. Mohan is actively involved in teaching, research supervision and stakeholder engagement to raise public awareness of issues critical to Caribbean development. Climate Policy, Food Policy, Energy Policy, Ecological Economics, Tourism Economics and Entrepreneurship and Regional Development are some of the international peer reviewed journals in which Dr. Mohan has successfully published.
Dr. Preeya Mohan
Dr Preeya Mohan is a Caribbean scholar, whose passion for Caribbean sustainability has influenced her research and numerous publications on critical issues of climate resilience, disaster risk management and sustainable development in Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Her research topics are intersectional in scope and are aimed at finding solutions to the pressing developmental challenges facing the region. She is a Senior Fellow at the Sir Arthur Lewis Institute of Social and Economic Studies (SALISES), The University of the West Indies, St Augustine. As a recipient of several research grants and awards Dr Mohan has worked on various research projects funded by international bodies including the Inter- American Development Bank, the International Development Research Centre and the Social Sciences Humanities Research Council of Canada. Dr. Mohan is actively involved in teaching, research supervision and stakeholder engagement to raise public awareness of issues critical to Caribbean development. Climate Policy, Food Policy, Energy Policy, Ecological Economics, Tourism Economics and Entrepreneurship and Regional Development are some of the international peer reviewed journals in which Dr. Mohan has successfully published.
Senior Fellow, Sir Arthur Lewis Institute of Social and Economic Studies, University of the West Indies
Narendra Ramgulam
Narendra Ramgulam is a seasoned professional with a strong background in tourism and hospitality. Prior to accepting the post as Sustainable Tourism Consultant with the Caribbean Tourism Organization, Narendra managed his own consultancy business where he provided guidance to hospitality and tourism stakeholders.
In his current role as Sustainable Tourism Consultant for the Caribbean Tourism Organization, Narendra focuses on advancing sustainable and regenerative practices across the region. He also imparts his expertise as an Adjunct Lecturer with various educational institutions. His previous academic roles include Postgraduate Coordinator and Lecturer at the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus.
Narendra’s notable achievements include leading the Tobago Tourism Agency Limited as Director of Tourism Product Development & Destination Management, where he secured prestigious sustainability awards and enhanced Tobago’s safety reputation during the COVID-19 pandemic.
A prolific researcher with over 13 publications in peer-reviewed journals and book chapters, Narendra has earned accolades for his research and is actively involved in tourism conferences. His expertise spans sustainable tourism, tourism anthropology, tourism product development, and economic diversification, reflecting his profound impact on the industry.
Narendra Ramgulam
Narendra Ramgulam is a seasoned professional with a strong background in tourism and hospitality. Prior to accepting the post as Sustainable Tourism Consultant with the Caribbean Tourism Organization, Narendra managed his own consultancy business where he provided guidance to hospitality and tourism stakeholders.
In his current role as Sustainable Tourism Consultant for the Caribbean Tourism Organization, Narendra focuses on advancing sustainable and regenerative practices across the region. He also imparts his expertise as an Adjunct Lecturer with various educational institutions. His previous academic roles include Postgraduate Coordinator and Lecturer at the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus.
Narendra’s notable achievements include leading the Tobago Tourism Agency Limited as Director of Tourism Product Development & Destination Management, where he secured prestigious sustainability awards and enhanced Tobago’s safety reputation during the COVID-19 pandemic.
A prolific researcher with over 13 publications in peer-reviewed journals and book chapters, Narendra has earned accolades for his research and is actively involved in tourism conferences. His expertise spans sustainable tourism, tourism anthropology, tourism product development, and economic diversification, reflecting his profound impact on the industry.
Sustainable Tourism Consultant, Caribbean Tourism Organization
Karolin Troubetzkoy
Karolin Troubetzkoy is the Executive Director, Marketing and Operations of Anse Chastanet and Jade Mountain Resorts in Soufriere, Saint Lucia, a position she held since 1986.
From March 2010 to January 2016 and again from 2018-June 2021, Mrs Troubetzkoy served as President of the Saint Lucia Hotel and Tourism Association (SLHTA).
Mrs Troubetzkoy was appointed President of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) in January 2016, for the term 2016-2018, with her presidency coming to an end in June 2018 at which point she became and served as Immediate Past President until October 2020. Mrs Troubetzkoy was only the second woman to serve as President in CHTA’s 50+ year history.
When her CHTA Presidency came to an end, Mrs Troubetzkoy agreed to take on and still serves in the role of Chairperson of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association Education Foundation and in this position continues fundraising in the industry to make available scholarships and training opportunities.
In Jan 2019, she was appointed Envoy to the Caribbean Challenge Initiative to bring awareness and build up resilience of the marine and coastal resources in the Caribbean. In July 2020, she accepted the Chairmanship of the Saint Lucia National Conservation Fund and in this capacity, has joined the board of the Caribbean Biodiversity Fund.
She is the Honorary Consul of the Federal Republic of Germany in Saint Lucia and is a citizen of Saint Lucia. On May 24, 2019 the Federal Republic of Germany bestowed on Karolin the Order of Merit to acknowledge her work as Honorary Consul and her volunteer leadership in Saint Lucia and the Caribbean to promote sustainable operations, building resilience and mitigating effects of climate change.
She holds a degree in business administration with majors in both tourism marketing and hotel and restaurant management from the University of Applied Sciences in Munich. She speaks four languages: German, French, English and Italian.
Karolin Troubetzkoy
Karolin Troubetzkoy is the Executive Director, Marketing and Operations of Anse Chastanet and Jade Mountain Resorts in Soufriere, Saint Lucia, a position she held since 1986.
From March 2010 to January 2016 and again from 2018-June 2021, Mrs Troubetzkoy served as President of the Saint Lucia Hotel and Tourism Association (SLHTA).
Mrs Troubetzkoy was appointed President of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) in January 2016, for the term 2016-2018, with her presidency coming to an end in June 2018 at which point she became and served as Immediate Past President until October 2020. Mrs Troubetzkoy was only the second woman to serve as President in CHTA’s 50+ year history.
When her CHTA Presidency came to an end, Mrs Troubetzkoy agreed to take on and still serves in the role of Chairperson of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association Education Foundation and in this position continues fundraising in the industry to make available scholarships and training opportunities.
In Jan 2019, she was appointed Envoy to the Caribbean Challenge Initiative to bring awareness and build up resilience of the marine and coastal resources in the Caribbean. In July 2020, she accepted the Chairmanship of the Saint Lucia National Conservation Fund and in this capacity, has joined the board of the Caribbean Biodiversity Fund.
She is the Honorary Consul of the Federal Republic of Germany in Saint Lucia and is a citizen of Saint Lucia. On May 24, 2019 the Federal Republic of Germany bestowed on Karolin the Order of Merit to acknowledge her work as Honorary Consul and her volunteer leadership in Saint Lucia and the Caribbean to promote sustainable operations, building resilience and mitigating effects of climate change.
She holds a degree in business administration with majors in both tourism marketing and hotel and restaurant management from the University of Applied Sciences in Munich. She speaks four languages: German, French, English and Italian.
Chairperson, Saint Lucia National Conservation Fund
Deputy Dean (Outreach and Internationalization) & Senior Lecturer (Agri-Environmental Disaster Risk Management), UWI
Special Adviser and Assistant Secretary-General for Climate Action, United Nations
Youth Ambassador for St.Kitts and Nevis, CARICOM
Fernando Clavijo
Nació en San Cristóbal de la Laguna. Tiene 51 años y es Licenciado en Ciencias Económicas y Empresariales por la Universidad de La Laguna. Ha trabajado en la empresa privada, compaginando esta actividad con sus estudios. Fue concejal del Ayuntamiento de La Laguna entre 2003 y 2007. Precisamente este año fue nom- brado alcalde de La Laguna, cargo que ocupó hasta 2015, cuando tras las Eleccio- nes Locales y Autonómicas fue investido Presidente de Canarias (2015-2019). Tras los comicios electorales de ese último año, en julio de 2019, fue designado sena- dor por la Comunidad Autónoma de Canarias, cargo que ocupó hasta la disolución de las Cortes Generales a finales de mayo de 2023. Concurrió a las Elecciones Locales y Autonómicas que se celebraron en mayo de 2023 como candidato del Grupo Nacionalista Canario a la Presidencia de Canarias, el 12 de julio de este mimo año fue investido Presidente de Canarias.
Fernando Clavijo
Nació en San Cristóbal de la Laguna. Tiene 51 años y es Licenciado en Ciencias Económicas y Empresariales por la Universidad de La Laguna. Ha trabajado en la empresa privada, compaginando esta actividad con sus estudios. Fue concejal del Ayuntamiento de La Laguna entre 2003 y 2007. Precisamente este año fue nom- brado alcalde de La Laguna, cargo que ocupó hasta 2015, cuando tras las Eleccio- nes Locales y Autonómicas fue investido Presidente de Canarias (2015-2019). Tras los comicios electorales de ese último año, en julio de 2019, fue designado sena- dor por la Comunidad Autónoma de Canarias, cargo que ocupó hasta la disolución de las Cortes Generales a finales de mayo de 2023. Concurrió a las Elecciones Locales y Autonómicas que se celebraron en mayo de 2023 como candidato del Grupo Nacionalista Canario a la Presidencia de Canarias, el 12 de julio de este mimo año fue investido Presidente de Canarias.
President of the Government of the Canary Islands
Aike Krips
Dutch Bar Registered lawyer with 25 years of experience, with both legal practice in The Netherlands as well as the Dutch Caribbean (mostly Curaçao).
Main areas of focus: financial law, trade & logistics and as specific field of expertise: legal aspects of the structure of the Kingdom of The Netherlands and EU status of the Caribbean Islands within the Kingdom.
Due to the latter Aike Krips has, as per request of Curaçao Ministry of Economic Affairs, advised and lectured various times about legal obstacles for the Caribbean Islands within the Kingdom for the financing for sustainability, amongst others at the COP29 conference in Baku, Azerbaijan.
Aike Krips is partner at the law firm Bunders Lok Advocaten in Amsterdam, The Netherlands and – in light of his Caribbean Practice – of counsel at the law firm Spigt Dutch Caribbean, in Curaçao.
Aike Krips
Dutch Bar Registered lawyer with 25 years of experience, with both legal practice in The Netherlands as well as the Dutch Caribbean (mostly Curaçao).
Main areas of focus: financial law, trade & logistics and as specific field of expertise: legal aspects of the structure of the Kingdom of The Netherlands and EU status of the Caribbean Islands within the Kingdom.
Due to the latter Aike Krips has, as per request of Curaçao Ministry of Economic Affairs, advised and lectured various times about legal obstacles for the Caribbean Islands within the Kingdom for the financing for sustainability, amongst others at the COP29 conference in Baku, Azerbaijan.
Aike Krips is partner at the law firm Bunders Lok Advocaten in Amsterdam, The Netherlands and – in light of his Caribbean Practice – of counsel at the law firm Spigt Dutch Caribbean, in Curaçao.
Lawyer & Partner, Bunders Lok Advocaten
Sustainable Energy Specialist, Caribbean Development Bank
Donald Baldeosingh
Mr Donald Baldeosingh is an energy specialist and social entrepreneur. He is the Founder of the technology-based ENMAN Group and the non-profit Carbon Zero Institute of Trinidad and Tobago, CZITT. At CZITT, he leads projects in climate awareness and carbon emissions reduction. He developed a Roadmap to Net Zero Emissions for Trinidad and Tobago and conceptualised the Caribbean Power Integration project.
Mr Baldeosingh worked in the local power, oil and gas industries and served as Chairman of the Petroleum Company of Trinidad and Tobago Ltd (Petrotrin).
He served for 10 years on the Industry Advisory Board to the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. Mr Baldeosingh has chaired conferences on such topics as Engineering, Procurement and Construction, Carbon Trading and Infrastructure Financing.
Mr Baldeosingh holds BSc and MSc degrees in Electrical Engineering from the University of the West Indies and a certificate in Energy Management from the University of Twente, The Netherlands.
Donald Baldeosingh
Mr Donald Baldeosingh is an energy specialist and social entrepreneur. He is the Founder of the technology-based ENMAN Group and the non-profit Carbon Zero Institute of Trinidad and Tobago, CZITT. At CZITT, he leads projects in climate awareness and carbon emissions reduction. He developed a Roadmap to Net Zero Emissions for Trinidad and Tobago and conceptualised the Caribbean Power Integration project.
Mr Baldeosingh worked in the local power, oil and gas industries and served as Chairman of the Petroleum Company of Trinidad and Tobago Ltd (Petrotrin).
He served for 10 years on the Industry Advisory Board to the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. Mr Baldeosingh has chaired conferences on such topics as Engineering, Procurement and Construction, Carbon Trading and Infrastructure Financing.
Mr Baldeosingh holds BSc and MSc degrees in Electrical Engineering from the University of the West Indies and a certificate in Energy Management from the University of Twente, The Netherlands.
President, ENMAN Group & Founder Carbon Zero Institute of Trinidad & Tobago
Kneyone Murray
Kneyone Murray, founder of Kneyzus Energy hails from Trinidad and Tobago. He is a dynamic individual known for his accomplishments in entrepreneurship, art, renewable energy, project management, and global sustainability efforts. He holds key roles such as Global Ambassador for the Blue Planet Alliance, Peace Boat US Youth for the SDGs Scholar, and Sustainable Ocean Alliance Young Ocean Leader, demonstrating his commitment to sustainable development. Through innovative approaches like utilizing organic materials for clean energy and developing bioplastics using seaweed, Murray is an inspiring example of how passion and creativity can drive impactful solutions for global challenges.
Kneyone Murray
Kneyone Murray, founder of Kneyzus Energy hails from Trinidad and Tobago. He is a dynamic individual known for his accomplishments in entrepreneurship, art, renewable energy, project management, and global sustainability efforts. He holds key roles such as Global Ambassador for the Blue Planet Alliance, Peace Boat US Youth for the SDGs Scholar, and Sustainable Ocean Alliance Young Ocean Leader, demonstrating his commitment to sustainable development. Through innovative approaches like utilizing organic materials for clean energy and developing bioplastics using seaweed, Murray is an inspiring example of how passion and creativity can drive impactful solutions for global challenges.
Caribbean Director, Blue Planet Alliance
Chamberlain Emmanuel
Chamberlain Emmanuel is Head of the Environmental Sustainability Division (ESD) at the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission and a member of the Commission’s Leadership Team.
Chamberlain leads a portfolio of integrated programmes and projects spanning: Biodiversity, Ecosystems and Ecosystems Services, Climate Change & Disaster Resilience; Sustainable Energy; and Sustainable Ocean Management.
He is at the forefront of a team which is designing, promoting and supporting more sustainable – Green|Blue|Circular|Low-carbon|Resilient – approaches to socio-economic development in the OECS. Under his leadership, the OECS Commission is working to position the Eastern Caribbean Small Island Developing States (SIDS) as a model Blue Economy region and to leverage their potential as Large Ocean Economies (LOEs).
Chamberlain is a Professional Civil Engineer, Certified Project Manager, and “Transformation enthusiast”, with over twenty years of practical experience. He holds a Bachelors in Civil Engineering (University of the West Indies, Trinidad), Diploma in Development and Project Planning (University of Bradford, UK), Project Management Professional (PMP) certification (Project Management Institute – PMI), and Masters in Innovation and Entrepreneurship (H.E.C. Paris).
Chamberlain remains “connected” through community, youth and values-oriented initiatives and social enterprise.
Chamberlain Emmanuel
Chamberlain Emmanuel is Head of the Environmental Sustainability Division (ESD) at the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission and a member of the Commission’s Leadership Team.
Chamberlain leads a portfolio of integrated programmes and projects spanning: Biodiversity, Ecosystems and Ecosystems Services, Climate Change & Disaster Resilience; Sustainable Energy; and Sustainable Ocean Management.
He is at the forefront of a team which is designing, promoting and supporting more sustainable – Green|Blue|Circular|Low-carbon|Resilient – approaches to socio-economic development in the OECS. Under his leadership, the OECS Commission is working to position the Eastern Caribbean Small Island Developing States (SIDS) as a model Blue Economy region and to leverage their potential as Large Ocean Economies (LOEs).
Chamberlain is a Professional Civil Engineer, Certified Project Manager, and “Transformation enthusiast”, with over twenty years of practical experience. He holds a Bachelors in Civil Engineering (University of the West Indies, Trinidad), Diploma in Development and Project Planning (University of Bradford, UK), Project Management Professional (PMP) certification (Project Management Institute – PMI), and Masters in Innovation and Entrepreneurship (H.E.C. Paris).
Chamberlain remains “connected” through community, youth and values-oriented initiatives and social enterprise.
Head of the Environmental Sustainability Division, OECS Commission
Board Director, St. Christopher and Nevis Conservation Foundation
Chief of Operations, Barbados Country Office, Inter-American Development Bank
Bernard Sleijster
Bernard is a dynamic entrepreneur and consultant with a deep commitment to sustainability and wellbeing. He studied marketing and graduated from the Entrepreneurship College in Amsterdam. His career began at a stock brokerage firm in Amsterdam, later transitioning into project finance, where he has accumulated over 20 years of experience. In recent years, Bernard has focused on consulting, with a specialization in structuring and marketing innovative business models, as well as securing financing for ventures in clean technologies, renewable energy, and Agritech.
With a decade of experience in the indoor farming industry, Bernard has developed deep expertise in Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA). As co-founder of Indoor Vertical.Farm, he draws on this extensive background to build synergies between CEA- focused organizations, driving strategic partnerships, enhancing operational efficiency, and fostering impactful project collaboration. Bernard’s visionary leadership is reflected in his development of impactful marketing strategies and sustainable business practices. Beyond the professional realm, he is driven by a strong sense of social responsibility and is the founder of a charitable initiative supporting children in need.
Bernard Sleijster
Bernard is a dynamic entrepreneur and consultant with a deep commitment to sustainability and wellbeing. He studied marketing and graduated from the Entrepreneurship College in Amsterdam. His career began at a stock brokerage firm in Amsterdam, later transitioning into project finance, where he has accumulated over 20 years of experience. In recent years, Bernard has focused on consulting, with a specialization in structuring and marketing innovative business models, as well as securing financing for ventures in clean technologies, renewable energy, and Agritech.
With a decade of experience in the indoor farming industry, Bernard has developed deep expertise in Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA). As co-founder of Indoor Vertical.Farm, he draws on this extensive background to build synergies between CEA- focused organizations, driving strategic partnerships, enhancing operational efficiency, and fostering impactful project collaboration. Bernard’s visionary leadership is reflected in his development of impactful marketing strategies and sustainable business practices. Beyond the professional realm, he is driven by a strong sense of social responsibility and is the founder of a charitable initiative supporting children in need.
Co-founder & Business Development Director, Indoor Vertical.Farm
Dr. Dennis Mc Call Jr.
Dr. Dennis Mc Call Jr. is an expert and academic in sustainable aviation, with a particular focus on addressing the unique challenges and opportunities faced by Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Hailing from St. Kitts & Nevis, his passion for aviation was ignited at a young age, inspired by the sight of Seaborne Airlines’ Twin Otter seaplane departing from the Charlotte Amalie Waterfront. Dr. Mc Call Jr earned a Bachelor of Science in Management (Tourism & Hospitality), followed by a Master of Science in Air Transport Management with distinction. He advanced his academic credentials by obtaining a PhD in Air Transport Management, with a focus on developing sustainable aviation strategies for the Caribbean and other SIDS. Currently, he serves as a lecturer in Aviation & Tourism Management and Course Leader for the aviation programmes at Teesside University in the United Kingdom. In this role, he has been instrumental in shaping strategic educational initiatives and preparing future leaders in the aviation sector, with a strong emphasis on sustainability. Beyond academia, Dr. Mc Call Jr has a strong foundation in leadership and advocacy. He has held prominent positions, including Dean of the CARICOM Youth Ambassador Corps, CARICOM Youth Ambassador for St. Kitts & Nevis, where he honed his negotiation and leadership skills, earning recognition from the Government of St. Kitts & Nevis. Additionally, he served as a member of the St. Kitts National Youth Parliament Association (SKNYPA), where he gained valuable experience in governance, public policy, and representing the voices of young people in the region. Dr. Mc Call Jr is a sought-after speaker and has presented at international conferences across Europe, the Caribbean, and the USA, addressing topics such as sustainable aviation development, the intersection of transportation and tourism, and strategies for environmental and economic resilience. With a unique blend of academic expertise, practical experience, and a personal connection to the Caribbean, Dr. Mc Call Jr is committed to advancing sustainability within the aviation industry and promoting sustainable development in transportation, particularly for island nations.
Dr. Dennis Mc Call Jr.
Dr. Dennis Mc Call Jr. is an expert and academic in sustainable aviation, with a particular focus on addressing the unique challenges and opportunities faced by Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Hailing from St. Kitts & Nevis, his passion for aviation was ignited at a young age, inspired by the sight of Seaborne Airlines’ Twin Otter seaplane departing from the Charlotte Amalie Waterfront. Dr. Mc Call Jr earned a Bachelor of Science in Management (Tourism & Hospitality), followed by a Master of Science in Air Transport Management with distinction. He advanced his academic credentials by obtaining a PhD in Air Transport Management, with a focus on developing sustainable aviation strategies for the Caribbean and other SIDS. Currently, he serves as a lecturer in Aviation & Tourism Management and Course Leader for the aviation programmes at Teesside University in the United Kingdom. In this role, he has been instrumental in shaping strategic educational initiatives and preparing future leaders in the aviation sector, with a strong emphasis on sustainability. Beyond academia, Dr. Mc Call Jr has a strong foundation in leadership and advocacy. He has held prominent positions, including Dean of the CARICOM Youth Ambassador Corps, CARICOM Youth Ambassador for St. Kitts & Nevis, where he honed his negotiation and leadership skills, earning recognition from the Government of St. Kitts & Nevis. Additionally, he served as a member of the St. Kitts National Youth Parliament Association (SKNYPA), where he gained valuable experience in governance, public policy, and representing the voices of young people in the region. Dr. Mc Call Jr is a sought-after speaker and has presented at international conferences across Europe, the Caribbean, and the USA, addressing topics such as sustainable aviation development, the intersection of transportation and tourism, and strategies for environmental and economic resilience. With a unique blend of academic expertise, practical experience, and a personal connection to the Caribbean, Dr. Mc Call Jr is committed to advancing sustainability within the aviation industry and promoting sustainable development in transportation, particularly for island nations.
Lecturer in Aviation & Tourism Management, Teesside University
Futurist & White House Champion of Change & Founder & President, Institute of Caribbean Studies
General Manager, St. Kitts Solid Waste Management Corp
President, the Saint Kitts and Nevis Institute of Architects
Rachel Ramsey
Rachel Ramsey is an Environmental Project Manager with a strong focus on Sustainable Development and Waste Management, specifically in the Caribbean. Currently serving as a Program Manager at the Caribbean Biodiversity Fund, she leads efforts to manage marine pollution through the promotion of sustainable circular economy interventions. Rachel oversees the implementation of a grant facility that supports projects aimed at minimizing waste’s impact on the marine environment, while fostering multi-sector collaboration for a circular economy across the region. With over 16 years of experience, Rachel has led and contributed to a wide range of initiatives and is continuously driven by her desire to make a tangible impact on environmental sustainability in the Caribbean.
Rachel Ramsey
Rachel Ramsey is an Environmental Project Manager with a strong focus on Sustainable Development and Waste Management, specifically in the Caribbean. Currently serving as a Program Manager at the Caribbean Biodiversity Fund, she leads efforts to manage marine pollution through the promotion of sustainable circular economy interventions. Rachel oversees the implementation of a grant facility that supports projects aimed at minimizing waste’s impact on the marine environment, while fostering multi-sector collaboration for a circular economy across the region. With over 16 years of experience, Rachel has led and contributed to a wide range of initiatives and is continuously driven by her desire to make a tangible impact on environmental sustainability in the Caribbean.
Program Manager, Nature-based Economies Program, the Caribbean Biodiversity Fund
Program Manager, Climate Change Program/EbA Facility, the Caribbean Biodiversity Fund
Josiah Burkett
Josiah Burkett currently serves as the Senior GIS Officer with the Ministry of Sustainable Development in St. Kitts. A geologist by degree, he is a passionate advocate for climate change resilience, particularly through the use of technology such as GIS and remote sensing to drive sustainable development. Josiah is also a member of the Board of Directors for URISA, now renamed the Geospatial Professional Network, where he contributes to advancing geospatial technology and its applications. He is also the Principal of Prime Solutions, a start up company that provides business solutions that utilizes data to improve business operations and value. With a deep commitment to environmental sustainability, he actively works to implement innovative solutions that address climate change and promote national and regional development.
Josiah Burkett
Josiah Burkett currently serves as the Senior GIS Officer with the Ministry of Sustainable Development in St. Kitts. A geologist by degree, he is a passionate advocate for climate change resilience, particularly through the use of technology such as GIS and remote sensing to drive sustainable development. Josiah is also a member of the Board of Directors for URISA, now renamed the Geospatial Professional Network, where he contributes to advancing geospatial technology and its applications. He is also the Principal of Prime Solutions, a start up company that provides business solutions that utilizes data to improve business operations and value. With a deep commitment to environmental sustainability, he actively works to implement innovative solutions that address climate change and promote national and regional development.
Senior GIS Officer, Department of Physical Planning, Government of Saint Kitts & Nevis
Cheryl Senhouse
Cheryl is an accomplished strategy and finance leader with over 20 years of experience driving success across both private and public sectors. Her diverse background spans multiple industries, where she has excelled in strategic financial management, governance, organizational design, and developing impactful strategies. Known for her ability to lead complex, cross-functional portfolios, Cheryl is a proven catalyst for operational excellence and sustainable growth. Her passion for innovation and meticulous attention to detail allow her to craft collaborative solutions that optimise business processes and generate lasting success. For the past four years, Cheryl has been making an impact in the NGO sector as the Finance Innovation Director at the Caribbean Climate Smart Accelerator, Inc. In this role, she spearheads operational fundraising, financial management and administration, while providing strategic leadership for project and program funding, as well as designing climate finance solutions that drive positive environmental and economic change. She serves as: Coordinator of CCSA’s Financial Advisory Committee – a grouping of leaders of regional financial institutions with the objective of accelerating the deployment of capital towards climate, resilience and sustainable solutions Member representative on Climate Policy Initiative’s Global Innovation Lab Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) Regional Selection Panel which supports the identification and incubation of innovative blended finance solutions from the LAC region Member representative on the Climate Finance Advisory Network (CFAN) Advisory Board and Member representative for the New Carbon Economy Consortium a multidisciplinary “moonshot” laboratory building the knowledge, technologies, and human capital needed in the new carbon economy
Cheryl Senhouse
Cheryl is an accomplished strategy and finance leader with over 20 years of experience driving success across both private and public sectors. Her diverse background spans multiple industries, where she has excelled in strategic financial management, governance, organizational design, and developing impactful strategies. Known for her ability to lead complex, cross-functional portfolios, Cheryl is a proven catalyst for operational excellence and sustainable growth. Her passion for innovation and meticulous attention to detail allow her to craft collaborative solutions that optimise business processes and generate lasting success. For the past four years, Cheryl has been making an impact in the NGO sector as the Finance Innovation Director at the Caribbean Climate Smart Accelerator, Inc. In this role, she spearheads operational fundraising, financial management and administration, while providing strategic leadership for project and program funding, as well as designing climate finance solutions that drive positive environmental and economic change. She serves as: Coordinator of CCSA’s Financial Advisory Committee – a grouping of leaders of regional financial institutions with the objective of accelerating the deployment of capital towards climate, resilience and sustainable solutions Member representative on Climate Policy Initiative’s Global Innovation Lab Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) Regional Selection Panel which supports the identification and incubation of innovative blended finance solutions from the LAC region Member representative on the Climate Finance Advisory Network (CFAN) Advisory Board and Member representative for the New Carbon Economy Consortium a multidisciplinary “moonshot” laboratory building the knowledge, technologies, and human capital needed in the new carbon economy
Finance Innovation Director, CCSA
Amanda Charles
Amanda Charles currently holds the position of Coordinator-Pillar II, Enhancing Government Capabilities to Support Climate-Smart and Gender-Responsive Businesses, Compete Caribbean+, at the Inter-American Development Bank. Her work focusses on coordinating the delivery of technical assistance and targeted capacity-building interventions, aimed at strengthening public governance to stimulate public and private sector climate action, drive innovation, and foster socially inclusive and environmentally responsible social and economic growth.
A sustainable development specialist with extensive public and private sector experience, Ms. Charles has worked in senior positions at both the regional and international levels, spanning over 15 years. She most recently held the position of Sustainable Tourism Specialist at the Caribbean Tourism Organization, headquartered in Barbados, where she headed the Sustainable Tourism Division and coordinated implementation of the CTO’s Sustainable Tourism Programme. Previous roles include Adviser at the Association of Caribbean States (ACS) in Trinidad, and Consultant at the Organization of American States (OAS) in Washington DC. She has also worked at several international NGO’s and non-profit organizations in various facets of development, including Counterpart International and the United Nations Foundation.
Ms Charles holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree from the State University of New York (SUNY), Plattsburgh, and a Master’s Degree from the George Washington University School of Business, with a concentration in Sustainable Destination Management.
Amanda Charles
Amanda Charles currently holds the position of Coordinator-Pillar II, Enhancing Government Capabilities to Support Climate-Smart and Gender-Responsive Businesses, Compete Caribbean+, at the Inter-American Development Bank. Her work focusses on coordinating the delivery of technical assistance and targeted capacity-building interventions, aimed at strengthening public governance to stimulate public and private sector climate action, drive innovation, and foster socially inclusive and environmentally responsible social and economic growth.
A sustainable development specialist with extensive public and private sector experience, Ms. Charles has worked in senior positions at both the regional and international levels, spanning over 15 years. She most recently held the position of Sustainable Tourism Specialist at the Caribbean Tourism Organization, headquartered in Barbados, where she headed the Sustainable Tourism Division and coordinated implementation of the CTO’s Sustainable Tourism Programme. Previous roles include Adviser at the Association of Caribbean States (ACS) in Trinidad, and Consultant at the Organization of American States (OAS) in Washington DC. She has also worked at several international NGO’s and non-profit organizations in various facets of development, including Counterpart International and the United Nations Foundation.
Ms Charles holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree from the State University of New York (SUNY), Plattsburgh, and a Master’s Degree from the George Washington University School of Business, with a concentration in Sustainable Destination Management.
Coordinator - Compete Caribbean+, Inter-American Development Bank
Project Manager, Renewable Energy Sector Development Project (RESDP), Government of Saint Lucia
Safeguards Lead & Mechanical Support Engineer, Dominica Geothermal Development Company
Sustainable Energy Programme Specialist, Caricom Development Fund
Philip Julien
Philip is a prominent green energy entrepreneur and Kenesjay Green Limited (KGL) founder, where he has pioneered clean hydrogen project developments in the Caribbean. KGL’s flagship initiative, NewGen Energy, involves a $250M project for low-carbon hydrogen production in Trinidad and Tobago, developed in partnership with HDF Energy. Additionally, he is exploring geothermal energy opportunities in Dominica, advocating for public-private partnerships to enhance the region’s energy sustainability.
With a Bachelor of Chemical Engineering and a Minor in Environmental Engineering from McGill University, Philip has held senior roles in environmental and process engineering, including leadership at WorleyParsons. He passionately advocates for regional green energy integration, having spoken at key events such as COP Conferences and the 2023 Private Sector Roundtable Meetings for the EU.
Beyond his business endeavours, Philip founded the Heroes Foundation in 2002, focusing on youth development in Trinidad and Tobago. His combined efforts in entrepreneurship, advocacy, and community engagement make him a significant influencer in the Caribbean’s transition to sustainable energy.
Philip Julien
Philip is a prominent green energy entrepreneur and Kenesjay Green Limited (KGL) founder, where he has pioneered clean hydrogen project developments in the Caribbean. KGL’s flagship initiative, NewGen Energy, involves a $250M project for low-carbon hydrogen production in Trinidad and Tobago, developed in partnership with HDF Energy. Additionally, he is exploring geothermal energy opportunities in Dominica, advocating for public-private partnerships to enhance the region’s energy sustainability.
With a Bachelor of Chemical Engineering and a Minor in Environmental Engineering from McGill University, Philip has held senior roles in environmental and process engineering, including leadership at WorleyParsons. He passionately advocates for regional green energy integration, having spoken at key events such as COP Conferences and the 2023 Private Sector Roundtable Meetings for the EU.
Beyond his business endeavours, Philip founded the Heroes Foundation in 2002, focusing on youth development in Trinidad and Tobago. His combined efforts in entrepreneurship, advocacy, and community engagement make him a significant influencer in the Caribbean’s transition to sustainable energy.
Chairman, Kenesjay Green Limited
Chairperson, St. Christopher and Nevis Conservation Foundation
Amelia DaCruz
Water Quality is a broad topic, and Amelia has researched and consulted within the many, many ways that water quality impacts the safety of the water we drink. She has degrees in biochemistry, marine biology, and environmental science and 12 years as a certified toxicologist. She has consulted for many public water providers on Caribbean, Atlantic and Pacific islands. As the lead of the Avanti Water Technical Assistance Team, she recently completed a 2024-2025 educational workshop series on Cistern Maintenance in the Virgin Islands for the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Planning and Natural Resources (DPNR). She is delighted to share some of the best practices for sourcing and maintaining safe drinking water for island residents and small water systems.
Amelia DaCruz
Water Quality is a broad topic, and Amelia has researched and consulted within the many, many ways that water quality impacts the safety of the water we drink. She has degrees in biochemistry, marine biology, and environmental science and 12 years as a certified toxicologist. She has consulted for many public water providers on Caribbean, Atlantic and Pacific islands. As the lead of the Avanti Water Technical Assistance Team, she recently completed a 2024-2025 educational workshop series on Cistern Maintenance in the Virgin Islands for the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Planning and Natural Resources (DPNR). She is delighted to share some of the best practices for sourcing and maintaining safe drinking water for island residents and small water systems.
Senior Environmental Toxicologist & Program Manager, Avanti Corporation
Tanja Lieuw
Tanja was born and raised in Suriname and holds a MSc degree in both Hydrology (Civil Engineering) and Conservation of Biodiversity in the Caribbean. As the Conservation Finance Program Manager, she is responsible for managing the partnerships and engagements with 12 countries in the region who benefit from the CBF Endowment Fund and to ensure that the countries can have access to sustainable sources of funding for conservation actions on the ground. She has over twenty years of experience working on sustainable environment topics in Latin America and the Caribbean such as on climate change policies, REDD+, climate and conservation finance and managing large to medium scale projects and programs with different donors such as GEF, IDB, UNDP, GCF, and others. She has worked for various government and international organizations in Suriname, Guyana and Chile and the Caribbean region.
Tanja Lieuw
Tanja was born and raised in Suriname and holds a MSc degree in both Hydrology (Civil Engineering) and Conservation of Biodiversity in the Caribbean. As the Conservation Finance Program Manager, she is responsible for managing the partnerships and engagements with 12 countries in the region who benefit from the CBF Endowment Fund and to ensure that the countries can have access to sustainable sources of funding for conservation actions on the ground. She has over twenty years of experience working on sustainable environment topics in Latin America and the Caribbean such as on climate change policies, REDD+, climate and conservation finance and managing large to medium scale projects and programs with different donors such as GEF, IDB, UNDP, GCF, and others. She has worked for various government and international organizations in Suriname, Guyana and Chile and the Caribbean region.
Conservation Finance Program Manager, Caribbean Biodiversity Fund
Jevanic Henry
Jevanic Henry is a climate change and development professional, who currently serves as a Fellow in the Action for Climate Empowerment (ACE) unit at the UNFCCC Secretariat. With extensive experience in the national and multilateral space working on matter around climate diplomacy and youth engagement in climate action. He previously served as a Foreign Service Officer as well as an Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS) Fellow, assigned to the Permanent Mission of Saint Lucia to the United Nations in New York. In the multilateral space, in addition to consulting on various climate projects and campaigns, he has worked with the Commonwealth Secretariat climate change unit, co-authoring a practical guide on enhancing access to climate finance as well as serving as a youth climate advisor to the UN Secretary General. He continues to support youth led organisations in Saint Lucia and the Caribbean in building capacity for effectively accessing climate finance.
Jevanic Henry
Jevanic Henry is a climate change and development professional, who currently serves as a Fellow in the Action for Climate Empowerment (ACE) unit at the UNFCCC Secretariat. With extensive experience in the national and multilateral space working on matter around climate diplomacy and youth engagement in climate action. He previously served as a Foreign Service Officer as well as an Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS) Fellow, assigned to the Permanent Mission of Saint Lucia to the United Nations in New York. In the multilateral space, in addition to consulting on various climate projects and campaigns, he has worked with the Commonwealth Secretariat climate change unit, co-authoring a practical guide on enhancing access to climate finance as well as serving as a youth climate advisor to the UN Secretary General. He continues to support youth led organisations in Saint Lucia and the Caribbean in building capacity for effectively accessing climate finance.
Fellow, UNFCCC Secretariat
Vice Dean, College of Sustainability, National Tsing Hua University, Taiwan
Senior Engineer, Green Energy and Environment Research Laboratories of the Industrial Technology Research Institute, Taiwan
Executive Director, St Kitts and Nevis Chamber of Industry and Commerce
Manager/Water Engineer, Saint Kitts Water Department
Angela Burnett Penn
Ms. Angela Burnett Penn is a qualified environmental manager and land use planner who is passionate about creating sustainable, progressive, climate-resilient communities that balance environmental, social and economic goals. Angela holds a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies and Sustainable Development and a Master of City and Regional Planning degree. Serving as The Virgin Islands’ Climate Change Officer since 2008, Ms. Burnett Penn has delivered major public education campaigns, authored the Territory’s Climate Change Policy, conducted a vulnerability and capacity assessment of the tourism sector, initiated the Green Pledge programme, managed adaptation projects and co-developed The Virgin Islands Climate Change Trust Fund.
In the wider Caribbean region, Ms. Burnett Penn has served as the Climate Change Coordinator for the Saint Lucia Disaster Vulnerability Reduction Project where she helped manage a diverse, $74 million-dollar portfolio of climate change adaptation projects. In this role, she also provided support to the innovative Climate Adaptation Financing Facility and led development of the Act to Adapt App which predicts home damage from major hurricanes. In the wake of Category 5 Hurricane Irma, Ms. Burnett Penn authored “The Irma Diaries: Compelling Survivor Stories from The Virgin Islands” as a global platform for frontline voices to help people connect more personally to climate change and resolve to act.
Angela Burnett Penn
Ms. Angela Burnett Penn is a qualified environmental manager and land use planner who is passionate about creating sustainable, progressive, climate-resilient communities that balance environmental, social and economic goals. Angela holds a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies and Sustainable Development and a Master of City and Regional Planning degree. Serving as The Virgin Islands’ Climate Change Officer since 2008, Ms. Burnett Penn has delivered major public education campaigns, authored the Territory’s Climate Change Policy, conducted a vulnerability and capacity assessment of the tourism sector, initiated the Green Pledge programme, managed adaptation projects and co-developed The Virgin Islands Climate Change Trust Fund.
In the wider Caribbean region, Ms. Burnett Penn has served as the Climate Change Coordinator for the Saint Lucia Disaster Vulnerability Reduction Project where she helped manage a diverse, $74 million-dollar portfolio of climate change adaptation projects. In this role, she also provided support to the innovative Climate Adaptation Financing Facility and led development of the Act to Adapt App which predicts home damage from major hurricanes. In the wake of Category 5 Hurricane Irma, Ms. Burnett Penn authored “The Irma Diaries: Compelling Survivor Stories from The Virgin Islands” as a global platform for frontline voices to help people connect more personally to climate change and resolve to act.
Climate Change Officer, Government of The British Virgin Islands
Prof. Daniel Kammen
Daniel Kammen is a UC Berkeley professor with appointments in Energy and Resources, Public Policy, and Nuclear Engineering. His expertise lies in decarbonization, energy access, and climate justice. He’s a former Senior Advisor at USAID, IPCC author, and served as a Science Envoy under Secretaries Clinton and Kerry. His research focuses on decarbonized energy systems, energy access, and environmental justice, resulting in over 500 publications. He has founded/advised numerous companies, served the World Bank, and advises organizations like the X-Prize Foundation. Kammen holds degrees from Cornell and Harvard and was elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in 2020.
Prof. Daniel Kammen
Daniel Kammen is a UC Berkeley professor with appointments in Energy and Resources, Public Policy, and Nuclear Engineering. His expertise lies in decarbonization, energy access, and climate justice. He’s a former Senior Advisor at USAID, IPCC author, and served as a Science Envoy under Secretaries Clinton and Kerry. His research focuses on decarbonized energy systems, energy access, and environmental justice, resulting in over 500 publications. He has founded/advised numerous companies, served the World Bank, and advises organizations like the X-Prize Foundation. Kammen holds degrees from Cornell and Harvard and was elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in 2020.
Chair, Energy and Resources Group, UC Berkeley
Dr. Ernie Stapleton
Dr. Ernie Stapleton was previously employed as Permanent Secretary within the Nevis Island Administration (NIA) in the Ministry of Communications, Public Utilities, Posts, Physical Planning, Natural Resources and Environment, and Labour, 2004 to February 2023. He has been working as the Coordinator/Team member for the development of geothermal energy on the island of Nevis since 2004 until he ended his public service tenure officially in February 2023. He currently resides in Saint Lucia but is a citizen of the Federation of St. Christopher (Saint. Kitts) and Nevis and is the Project Manager for the OECS Geothermal Energy: Capacity Building, for Utilization, Investment, and Local Development (GEOBUILD) Programme at the OECS Commission since November 2022. He is academically trained in the areas of Economics and Accounts, Financial Economics, and has completed a certified professional programme from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in Clean Energy Solutions. Ernie is also a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) with the Project Management Institute (PMI). He has been exposed to other training seminars and study tours in geothermal energy development and sustainable energy over the years.
Dr. Ernie Stapleton
Dr. Ernie Stapleton was previously employed as Permanent Secretary within the Nevis Island Administration (NIA) in the Ministry of Communications, Public Utilities, Posts, Physical Planning, Natural Resources and Environment, and Labour, 2004 to February 2023. He has been working as the Coordinator/Team member for the development of geothermal energy on the island of Nevis since 2004 until he ended his public service tenure officially in February 2023. He currently resides in Saint Lucia but is a citizen of the Federation of St. Christopher (Saint. Kitts) and Nevis and is the Project Manager for the OECS Geothermal Energy: Capacity Building, for Utilization, Investment, and Local Development (GEOBUILD) Programme at the OECS Commission since November 2022. He is academically trained in the areas of Economics and Accounts, Financial Economics, and has completed a certified professional programme from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in Clean Energy Solutions. Ernie is also a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) with the Project Management Institute (PMI). He has been exposed to other training seminars and study tours in geothermal energy development and sustainable energy over the years.
OECS Commission, GEOBUILD Programme Representative
Dr. Ilive Peltier
Dr. Peltier is an educator, presenter, researcher and author whose work focuses on sustainable education, education, creativity and innovation’s role in sustainability as well as creative problem solving where it pertains to climate and climate mitigation. The work she does involves developing awareness among people of the Caribbean and internationally about such the impacts climate change has on livelihoods and survival. She has also been an island ambassador for the islands of Dominica (her island home) and St John USVI (island home of her husband and children.
Dr. Ilive Peltier
Dr. Peltier is an educator, presenter, researcher and author whose work focuses on sustainable education, education, creativity and innovation’s role in sustainability as well as creative problem solving where it pertains to climate and climate mitigation. The work she does involves developing awareness among people of the Caribbean and internationally about such the impacts climate change has on livelihoods and survival. She has also been an island ambassador for the islands of Dominica (her island home) and St John USVI (island home of her husband and children.
Newark Public Schools, Educator, Researcher & Author
UnaMay Gordon
Una May Gordon is a senior climate change and development expert with years of experience successfully intersecting policy formulation and programme development in agribusiness, natural resources, climate change adaptation and mitigation. For six years & up to July 2022 she served as the Principal Director, Climate Change for the Government of Jamaica Ministry of Economic Growth & Job Creation. She is currently an independent expert focusing on climate finance, climate governance and providing capacity development & support to governments across the Caribbean region helping to advancing efforts in accessing climate finance.
UnaMay Gordon
Una May Gordon is a senior climate change and development expert with years of experience successfully intersecting policy formulation and programme development in agribusiness, natural resources, climate change adaptation and mitigation. For six years & up to July 2022 she served as the Principal Director, Climate Change for the Government of Jamaica Ministry of Economic Growth & Job Creation. She is currently an independent expert focusing on climate finance, climate governance and providing capacity development & support to governments across the Caribbean region helping to advancing efforts in accessing climate finance.
Senior Climate Change & Development Expert, Jamaica
Observatorio en Transición Energética, Colombia
Policy Coordinator, Global Climate and Health Alliance
Dr. James Fletcher
Dr James Fletcher is a former Minister for Public Service, Information, Broadcasting, Sustainable Development, Energy, Science and Technology in the Government of Saint Lucia.
Dr. Fletcher served as one of the chief high level negotiators for the Caribbean and the Association of Small Island States in the international climate change negotiations. He played a pivotal role in the adoption of the historic Paris Agreement on Climate Change in December 2015.
Dr. Fletcher is also credited with leading one of the most ambitious sustainable energy programmes in the Caribbean, through an innovative model that leaned heavily on the creation of effective strategic partnerships. His work in bridging the digital divide in Saint Lucia, stimulating digital entrepreneurship, and enhancing the management of water resources is also highly lauded.
In 2019, Dr. Fletcher was chosen by the Chevening Scholarship program as one of the Chevening 35 Global Changemakers
Dr. James Fletcher
Dr James Fletcher is a former Minister for Public Service, Information, Broadcasting, Sustainable Development, Energy, Science and Technology in the Government of Saint Lucia.
Dr. Fletcher served as one of the chief high level negotiators for the Caribbean and the Association of Small Island States in the international climate change negotiations. He played a pivotal role in the adoption of the historic Paris Agreement on Climate Change in December 2015.
Dr. Fletcher is also credited with leading one of the most ambitious sustainable energy programmes in the Caribbean, through an innovative model that leaned heavily on the creation of effective strategic partnerships. His work in bridging the digital divide in Saint Lucia, stimulating digital entrepreneurship, and enhancing the management of water resources is also highly lauded.
In 2019, Dr. Fletcher was chosen by the Chevening Scholarship program as one of the Chevening 35 Global Changemakers
CARICOM Climate Envoy
Kerese Elliott
As a Political Science bachelor and fashion designer, Kerese’s project aims to reuse old materials to create bags or clothing. Kerese has founded a sustainable fashion brand, ClutchED, which is geared towards achieving SDG 9. ClutchED uses scrap pieces of designer fabric from local clothing stores to create bags. She is also intent on pursuing projects that tackle issues with water scarcity which plague her island of St. Kitts, and is currently researching the possibility of alleviating this scarcity through the construction of a desalination facility powered by renewable energy. Her dedication to sustainability is driven by an awareness of the need to protect the planet for the enjoyment of future generations, and she wishes to highlight the role that sustainable fashion can play in alleviating the harmful effects of the climate crisis.
Kerese Elliott
As a Political Science bachelor and fashion designer, Kerese’s project aims to reuse old materials to create bags or clothing. Kerese has founded a sustainable fashion brand, ClutchED, which is geared towards achieving SDG 9. ClutchED uses scrap pieces of designer fabric from local clothing stores to create bags. She is also intent on pursuing projects that tackle issues with water scarcity which plague her island of St. Kitts, and is currently researching the possibility of alleviating this scarcity through the construction of a desalination facility powered by renewable energy. Her dedication to sustainability is driven by an awareness of the need to protect the planet for the enjoyment of future generations, and she wishes to highlight the role that sustainable fashion can play in alleviating the harmful effects of the climate crisis.
Blue Planet Alliance Global Youth Ambassador
Pamela Mercedes Abreu Toribio
Pamela Abreu Toribio is an industrial engineer with a master’s degree in designing sustainable engineering and extensive experience in climate change, specialising in sustainable mobility, smart cities, and energy efficiency. She has collaborated with international organisations and programs such as CALSTART, GIZ, FIAP, and RCC Caribbean, leading transportation electrification and decarbonization initiatives in the Dominican Republic and the Caribbean region. With extensive experience in international negotiations through AOSIS, Pamela has contributed to the global dialogue on efficient energy use, just energy transitions, and sustainable cities. Her work with the Dominican Republic’s National Council for Climate Change (CNCCMDL) has been pivotal in advancing transport decarbonization and clean energy initiatives. Recognised as an expert reviewer nominee in Climate Transparency at a global level, Pamela combines her solid technical background with a strategic vision to promote innovative policies and projects towards a more sustainable future, advocating for integrated solutions that promote climate resilience and energy transition in small island developing states (SIDS).
Pamela Mercedes Abreu Toribio
Pamela Abreu Toribio is an industrial engineer with a master’s degree in designing sustainable engineering and extensive experience in climate change, specialising in sustainable mobility, smart cities, and energy efficiency. She has collaborated with international organisations and programs such as CALSTART, GIZ, FIAP, and RCC Caribbean, leading transportation electrification and decarbonization initiatives in the Dominican Republic and the Caribbean region. With extensive experience in international negotiations through AOSIS, Pamela has contributed to the global dialogue on efficient energy use, just energy transitions, and sustainable cities. Her work with the Dominican Republic’s National Council for Climate Change (CNCCMDL) has been pivotal in advancing transport decarbonization and clean energy initiatives. Recognised as an expert reviewer nominee in Climate Transparency at a global level, Pamela combines her solid technical background with a strategic vision to promote innovative policies and projects towards a more sustainable future, advocating for integrated solutions that promote climate resilience and energy transition in small island developing states (SIDS).
Mitigation Analyst at the National Council for Climate Change, Dominican Republic
Tyeisha Emmanuel
Ms. Tyeisha Emmanuel, also known as Miss Youth Everything, is a 23-year-old student currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science at the University of the West Indies, Global Campus. She also holds an Associate of Arts degree in Business Studies with a focus on Accounts and was awarded an Advanced Proficiency Diploma by the Caribbean Examinations Council in 2021. Tyeisha is deeply passionate about promoting youth inclusion in governance, advocating for social justice, and advancing gender equality.
She has actively participated in various clubs and organisations, demonstrating her commitment to these important issues. Currently, Tyeisha holds several prominent positions, including:
• UWI STAT Ambassador – UWI Global Campus, Vice President CARICOM Relations
• Chair of Anguilla National Youth Planning Committee 2025
• Member of the National Youth Ambassador Corps of Anguilla
• Anguilla Youth Parliamentarian, serving as Deputy Governor
• Member of the SIDS GCYAS Steering Committee
• Past Chair and Anguilla Delegate of the UN Youth Advisory Group Barbados and Eastern Caribbean 2022 – 2024.
Tyeisha Emmanuel
Ms. Tyeisha Emmanuel, also known as Miss Youth Everything, is a 23-year-old student currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science at the University of the West Indies, Global Campus. She also holds an Associate of Arts degree in Business Studies with a focus on Accounts and was awarded an Advanced Proficiency Diploma by the Caribbean Examinations Council in 2021. Tyeisha is deeply passionate about promoting youth inclusion in governance, advocating for social justice, and advancing gender equality.
She has actively participated in various clubs and organisations, demonstrating her commitment to these important issues. Currently, Tyeisha holds several prominent positions, including:
• UWI STAT Ambassador – UWI Global Campus, Vice President CARICOM Relations
• Chair of Anguilla National Youth Planning Committee 2025
• Member of the National Youth Ambassador Corps of Anguilla
• Anguilla Youth Parliamentarian, serving as Deputy Governor
• Member of the SIDS GCYAS Steering Committee
• Past Chair and Anguilla Delegate of the UN Youth Advisory Group Barbados and Eastern Caribbean 2022 – 2024.
Regional Youth Inclusion in Governance Advocate
Director of Creative Economy, Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis
Shawn Alexander O’Garro
I am seasoned maritime professional with over 29 years of experience in marine pilotage, port operations and management, and maritime policy. Currently serving as a Senior Marine Pilot at the St. Christopher Air and Seaports Authority (SCASPA), I actively contribute to sustainable maritime practices and policy development, including my involvement in the IMO CARES programme. As the founder of S&J Maritime Training and Consultancy Services, I am dedicated to enhancing maritime skills and conducting comprehensive vessel surveys in St. Kitts. Additionally, I serve as a Director of the St. Christopher and Nevis Conservation Foundation, promoting environmental conservation and sustainable development initiatives. Beyond my maritime career, I serve as the Senior Pastor at the Church of God of Prophecy in Cayon, emphasizing leadership mentoring and community development. My combined expertise in maritime operations, entrepreneurial initiatives, and community leadership positions me as a respected professional within maritime and community circles throughout St. Kitts and Nevis.
Shawn Alexander O’Garro
I am seasoned maritime professional with over 29 years of experience in marine pilotage, port operations and management, and maritime policy. Currently serving as a Senior Marine Pilot at the St. Christopher Air and Seaports Authority (SCASPA), I actively contribute to sustainable maritime practices and policy development, including my involvement in the IMO CARES programme. As the founder of S&J Maritime Training and Consultancy Services, I am dedicated to enhancing maritime skills and conducting comprehensive vessel surveys in St. Kitts. Additionally, I serve as a Director of the St. Christopher and Nevis Conservation Foundation, promoting environmental conservation and sustainable development initiatives. Beyond my maritime career, I serve as the Senior Pastor at the Church of God of Prophecy in Cayon, emphasizing leadership mentoring and community development. My combined expertise in maritime operations, entrepreneurial initiatives, and community leadership positions me as a respected professional within maritime and community circles throughout St. Kitts and Nevis.
Board Director, St. Christopher and Nevis Conservation Foundation
Founder, Innovative Education & Training and Coaching by Tamu
Capacity Strengthening and Global South Knowledge Leadership, International Women’s Rights Action Watch
Program Officer, Consortium of Caribbean Conservation Funds
Dr. Indra Haraksingh
Dr. Indra Haraksingh has been a lecturer in the Department of Physics at The University of the West Indies (UWI), Trinidad. Her main focus is Renewable Energy, including Solar Energy and Geothermal Energy, Pure Physics, Geophysics and Earth Sciences. She holds a Ph.D. in Physics in Solar Energy, a Diploma in Education, and BSc. – Physics and Mathematics Degrees. She has served on various technical committees nationally. regionally and internationally, including the CARICOM appointed Caribbean Renewable Energy Development Programme (CREDP), The Renewable Energy Committee of Trinidad and Tobago, The University of the West Indies Renewable Energy Committee, and the International Steering Committee and Council of the World Renewable Energy Network.
Dr. Haraksingh is one of the key persons involved in training and capacity building in Renewable Energy in the Caribbean region. She received numerous Honours/Awards, including Outstanding Scientist Award, NIHERST Award for Excellence in Science and Technology, The University of the West Indies Vice Chancellor’s Award for Excellence, the International Life Pioneer Award for Renewable Energy, and National Award – The Humming Bird Medal Silver for Loyal .and Devoted Service to Trinidad and Tobago in February 2022.
Dr. Indra Haraksingh
Dr. Indra Haraksingh has been a lecturer in the Department of Physics at The University of the West Indies (UWI), Trinidad. Her main focus is Renewable Energy, including Solar Energy and Geothermal Energy, Pure Physics, Geophysics and Earth Sciences. She holds a Ph.D. in Physics in Solar Energy, a Diploma in Education, and BSc. – Physics and Mathematics Degrees. She has served on various technical committees nationally. regionally and internationally, including the CARICOM appointed Caribbean Renewable Energy Development Programme (CREDP), The Renewable Energy Committee of Trinidad and Tobago, The University of the West Indies Renewable Energy Committee, and the International Steering Committee and Council of the World Renewable Energy Network.
Dr. Haraksingh is one of the key persons involved in training and capacity building in Renewable Energy in the Caribbean region. She received numerous Honours/Awards, including Outstanding Scientist Award, NIHERST Award for Excellence in Science and Technology, The University of the West Indies Vice Chancellor’s Award for Excellence, the International Life Pioneer Award for Renewable Energy, and National Award – The Humming Bird Medal Silver for Loyal .and Devoted Service to Trinidad and Tobago in February 2022.
Lecturer in Department of Physics, The University of the West Indies (UWI)
Firhaana Bint S Bulbulia
Firhaana Bulbulia serves as the Youth Engagement Officer for UNICEF Eastern Caribbean, where she leads a range of initiatives aimed at empowering young people, including U-Report, the Child Rights Ambassador Programme, and the UNICEF Youth Advocates.
With over a decade of experience in advocacy and grassroots organizing, Firhaana has worked with several regional and international organizations, including the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), UN Women, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the Commonwealth Youth Gender Equality Network.
She is also the Founder of the Barbados Association of Muslim Ladies, a community-based organization dedicated to advancing the socio-economic and educational development of Muslim women and girls.
Firhaana is a Chevening Scholar and holds a Master’s degree in Education, Gender and International Development from University College London. In addition, she is a trained Special Education teacher, committed to inclusive education and youth empowerment.
Firhaana Bint S Bulbulia
Firhaana Bulbulia serves as the Youth Engagement Officer for UNICEF Eastern Caribbean, where she leads a range of initiatives aimed at empowering young people, including U-Report, the Child Rights Ambassador Programme, and the UNICEF Youth Advocates.
With over a decade of experience in advocacy and grassroots organizing, Firhaana has worked with several regional and international organizations, including the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), UN Women, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the Commonwealth Youth Gender Equality Network.
She is also the Founder of the Barbados Association of Muslim Ladies, a community-based organization dedicated to advancing the socio-economic and educational development of Muslim women and girls.
Firhaana is a Chevening Scholar and holds a Master’s degree in Education, Gender and International Development from University College London. In addition, she is a trained Special Education teacher, committed to inclusive education and youth empowerment.
Youth Engagement Officer, UNICEF
Clive Anthony Murray
Clive Murray is a humanitarian and advocate for social and sustainable development. In his current role as the Programme Specialist (Disaster Risk Reduction & Climate Change) at the UNICEF Office for the Eastern Caribbean Area, based in Barbados, he plays a pivotal part in advancing UNICEF’s mission in Climate, Environment, Energy and Disaster Risk Reduction (CEED). His role also requires close collaboration across UNICEF’s programme sections and external stakeholders on joint areas including climate innovations and financing for children. He also oversees the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) portfolio. His professional journey includes contributions to organizations such as the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), Caribbean Child Support Initiative Programme (implemented through CARICAD), the Foundation for the Development of Caribbean Children (FDCC), the Inter-American Institute for Agriculture (IICA) in Barbados, and the Social Development Commission (SDC) in Jamaica. Clive holds a master’s degree in Social Development & Sustainable Livelihoods and a Bachelor’s degree in Media and Communications.
Clive Anthony Murray
Clive Murray is a humanitarian and advocate for social and sustainable development. In his current role as the Programme Specialist (Disaster Risk Reduction & Climate Change) at the UNICEF Office for the Eastern Caribbean Area, based in Barbados, he plays a pivotal part in advancing UNICEF’s mission in Climate, Environment, Energy and Disaster Risk Reduction (CEED). His role also requires close collaboration across UNICEF’s programme sections and external stakeholders on joint areas including climate innovations and financing for children. He also oversees the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) portfolio. His professional journey includes contributions to organizations such as the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), Caribbean Child Support Initiative Programme (implemented through CARICAD), the Foundation for the Development of Caribbean Children (FDCC), the Inter-American Institute for Agriculture (IICA) in Barbados, and the Social Development Commission (SDC) in Jamaica. Clive holds a master’s degree in Social Development & Sustainable Livelihoods and a Bachelor’s degree in Media and Communications.
Lead and Programme Specialist, CEED, UNICEF
Molly Lynch
Molly is a climate, energy and development specialist passionate about creating sustainable, actionable pathways for governments and communities. At UNICEF Eastern Caribbean, she works at the intersection of climate policy, disaster resilience, and public systems strengthening, with a strong focus on empowering young people to shape climate solutions. She leads the integration of NDCs and NAPs into national systems through child-sensitive, risk-informed approaches, and supports countries in using data and risk models (like CCRI-DRM) to inform planning. Molly also drives regional youth engagement initiatives, ensuring young voices are represented in policy processes, and facilitates collaboration across sectors like education, WASH, and social protection to build long-term resilience. Before joining UNICEF, she worked in the renewables sector, supporting large-scale onshore wind and BESS energy projects across the UK. She holds an MSc in Carbon Management from the University of Edinburgh and a BSc in International Development and Food Policy from University College Cork.
Molly Lynch
Molly is a climate, energy and development specialist passionate about creating sustainable, actionable pathways for governments and communities. At UNICEF Eastern Caribbean, she works at the intersection of climate policy, disaster resilience, and public systems strengthening, with a strong focus on empowering young people to shape climate solutions. She leads the integration of NDCs and NAPs into national systems through child-sensitive, risk-informed approaches, and supports countries in using data and risk models (like CCRI-DRM) to inform planning. Molly also drives regional youth engagement initiatives, ensuring young voices are represented in policy processes, and facilitates collaboration across sectors like education, WASH, and social protection to build long-term resilience. Before joining UNICEF, she worked in the renewables sector, supporting large-scale onshore wind and BESS energy projects across the UK. She holds an MSc in Carbon Management from the University of Edinburgh and a BSc in International Development and Food Policy from University College Cork.
CEED Officer, UNICEF
Diannille Taylor-Williams
Diannille Taylor-Williams is a recognized leader in sustainable tourism, currently serving as Director in the Ministry of Tourism for St. Kitts. With over a decade of dedicated service to climate-conscious and community-driven tourism development, she has led strategic efforts to integrate sustainability into tourism policy, planning, and partnerships across the Federation.
She is also the founding Chair of the St. Kitts Sustainable Destination Council (SDC), a public-private stakeholder body established in 2013 to champion sustainability in tourism. Under her leadership, the SDC won the World Travel & Tourism Council’s 2019 Tourism for Tomorrow Award for Destination Stewardship, positioning St. Kitts as a regional model in sustainable destination management.
Through the SDC, Diannille spearheaded the national movement to reduce single-use plastics starting in 2017, launching initiatives such as repurposing plastic competitions, coastal cleanups, and public education. Notably, St. Kitts-Nevis Restaurant Week, a flagship agrotourism initiative that links tourism with local agriculture and culinary heritage, was birthed under the SDC’s work.
She has coordinated and delivered several capacity-building programs, including the Sustainable Tourism Professionals training, later localized as Destination Guardian training, and the ‘I Speak St. Kitts Culture & Heritage’ series and tours — aimed at increasing awareness of the island’s rich history and identity among tourism service providers.
Diannille Taylor-Williams
Diannille Taylor-Williams is a recognized leader in sustainable tourism, currently serving as Director in the Ministry of Tourism for St. Kitts. With over a decade of dedicated service to climate-conscious and community-driven tourism development, she has led strategic efforts to integrate sustainability into tourism policy, planning, and partnerships across the Federation.
She is also the founding Chair of the St. Kitts Sustainable Destination Council (SDC), a public-private stakeholder body established in 2013 to champion sustainability in tourism. Under her leadership, the SDC won the World Travel & Tourism Council’s 2019 Tourism for Tomorrow Award for Destination Stewardship, positioning St. Kitts as a regional model in sustainable destination management.
Through the SDC, Diannille spearheaded the national movement to reduce single-use plastics starting in 2017, launching initiatives such as repurposing plastic competitions, coastal cleanups, and public education. Notably, St. Kitts-Nevis Restaurant Week, a flagship agrotourism initiative that links tourism with local agriculture and culinary heritage, was birthed under the SDC’s work.
She has coordinated and delivered several capacity-building programs, including the Sustainable Tourism Professionals training, later localized as Destination Guardian training, and the ‘I Speak St. Kitts Culture & Heritage’ series and tours — aimed at increasing awareness of the island’s rich history and identity among tourism service providers.
Chairperson, Sustainable Destination Council
