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Joy Kwak, Campaign intern

Saturday Spotlight Series

· Climate Reality Canada Team
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Full Name and Title

Joy Ahrum Kwak, Campaign Intern

Short Biography

Joy is a third year political science and international development student at McGill. She decided to get further involved with The Climate Reality Project Canada as a Campaign Intern because she is extremely passionate about climate justice and the effectiveness of campaigning at a local and federal level. Originally from British Columbia, she learned from a young age that our beautiful forests and beaches must be preserved and conserved by us and for us. She hopes to empower other youth and young people to fight for real climate action in their communities!

Why did you join the climate movement/what pushed you to become interested in climate change issues?

The urgency of climate change drew me to the movement, and is pushing me to a career path where I can fight for more progressive climate action in policymaking and politics. The climate crisis, when combined with other components such as poverty, intergenerational trauma, and gender/race-based discrimination, endangers so many lives around us.

What is one achievement you are proud of?

Starting a local chapter of Youth for the UN Sustainable Development Goals in Kamloops, B.C.! The group successfully fundraised for one of the Goals and educated students from different schools about the SDGs and how to help.

What are some climate change initiatives you are currently taking part in?

I am a member of local environmental groups at McGill, including C-JAM (Climate Justice Action McGill) and Divest McGill. I've also participated in the UN SDG training program, and love talking to people about climate action!

What do you think is the most effective way for people to take climate action?

Start small but think big! All kinds of change is needed for effective climate action. We need to start with ourselves, our families, and our businesses, but we also need to pressure our governments and elected officials to represent our demands.

What is a fun fact about yourself?

I can play any song on the violin by ear!