In 2020, Imogene completed a Bachelors of Environmental Studies at the University of Waterloo’s School of Environment, Resources and Sustainability with a certificate in Environmental Impact Assessment. Her educational focuses included Canadian environmental policy, Indigenous governance systems, forest ecology, environmental psychology and systems design. Imogene identifies as an intersectional environmentalist and feminist. In her free time she enjoys being out in nature, swimming, sewing, painting, and engaging in community-led climate justice.
Why did you join the climate movement/what pushed you to become interested in climate change issues?
Growing up in rural and remote areas, the effects of climate change were hard to ignore. Forest fires in Northern Ontario and eutrophication of Lake Erie were things I learned by living around. I was born at the very beginning of a new generation, one that grew up questioning the ethicality of raising a family and wondering when our water would stop being safe enough to swim. For me, and many others like me, the climate movement is a movement of necessity.
What is one achievement you are proud of?
Graduating with honours from the University of Waterloo. The thesis process was exhausting but one of my most satisfying projects. There are so many other things that I have been proud to be involved it, but to complete this (relatively) alone was amazing.
What are some climate change initiatives you are currently taking part in?
I recently attended my first meeting with Climate Justice Montreal after moving to the city this September. I am excited to get involved with them and other community centred initiatives around the city.
What do you think is the most effective way for people to take climate action?
Become more than an individual. Taking on climate action alone leads to dread and burnout. Seeking climate justice as a community, regardless of scale, is far more effective. One person cannot fix the climate crisis, it takes communication, organization, and bottom-up solutions to create change. Our voices and desires for a better future are stronger as a collective. Being a community gives us power in the face of division.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
My passion for community organization started with community theatre! I love acting and at one time would perform in several productions a year.