We’re thrilled to share the exciting news that our founder, Smiely Khurana, has been named one of Corporate Knights’ 2024 30 Under 30 Sustainability Leaders in Canada!
This prestigious recognition celebrates young visionaries driving sustainable change across sectors, and we couldn’t be prouder of Smiely’s commitment, impact, and dedication to amplifying voices for climate action.
In the announcement, Corporate Knights highlights the importance of youth leadership and resilience in a time where climate action is more urgent than ever. Smiely’s work with The Sustainable Act, Climate Cafe Vancouver, and her recent efforts toward creating the Climate Wellness Network serve as powerful examples of bridging community, storytelling, and tangible action. Through these initiatives, she has connected diverse voices, tackled climate anxiety, and fostered spaces for open, compassionate dialogue on sustainability.
Reflections from Smiely
"I'm incredibly honoured to be named on of Canada's 30 under 30 Sustainability Leader by Corporate Knights! Thank you to the Corporate Knights team and judges for including me alongside so many inspiring young leaders across Canada!
Writing this post has been bittersweet. On one hand, I’m grateful to celebrate this recognition, yet my thoughts are heavy with the setbacks in climate and human rights policies happening across the border.
Today’s news feels like a reminder of the long, challenging road we face in making climate action a global priority. However, reading about these visionary leaders on the list gives me a renewed sense of hope.
It’s a reminder that, together, with resilient voices and continued collective action, we can push through institutional barriers and shift the systems we’re up against.
It’s not always easy to pause and recognize the work you’ve put in, so this recognition is a chance for me to practice that—to feel proud of how far I’ve come. It also gives me even more energy to keep pushing forward!"
As a change maker with deep personal connections to sustainability and mental health advocacy, Smiely has continuously worked to highlight the intersection of climate action with human rights and well-being. Her experience growing up amidst nature in British Columbia and confronting the impacts of climate events—such as the 2021 floods in Abbotsford—have deeply influenced her approach. This personal experience has also fueled her dedication to supporting mental health in the climate movement, creating spaces like Climate Cafe Vancouver, where people can share, reflect, and support each other through climate-related anxieties.
This achievement wouldn’t be possible without the support of our community and everyone who has been part of The Sustainable Act’s journey. Thank you to Corporate Knights for this honour, and to everyone dedicated to creating a sustainable, compassionate future. Let’s continue to make a difference, one story, one connection, and one action at a time.
For the full Corporate Knights feature, click here to read about all the inspiring leaders shaping the future of sustainability.
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