Indigenous peoples are often among the first to experience the effects of climate change, and First Nation voices and mental models can help solve the climate crisis.

Indigenous perspectives place humans within the natural world, with land, water, and air as relatives rather than resources to exploit. This perspective in action shows a track record of safeguarding nature.

Some examples in practice include applying long-cultivated ecological knowledge for resource sustainability and effective forest management and biodiversity stewardship. What can we learn from these teachings to practice sustainability and how can we support and elevate Indigenous voices and solutions?

Moderator:

Lagipoiva Cherelle Jackson is the Director of Climate Journalism at SJN. A native of Samoa, in the South Pacific, she has over 20 years of reporting on climate, human rights and cultures in the Pacific islands. She was recently the inaugural Global Climate Collaborations Editor for The Associated Press and has reported for numerous international outlets including AFP, Islands Business and others.

Speakers:

Alejandro Argumedo born in central Peru to an indigenous Quechua farming family, was raised with deep cultural roots and a connection to the land. As Director of Programs and Andes Amazon lead, he brings 25+ years of experience working with indigenous communities, NGOs, and international organizations across the Americas, Africa, Asia, and the Pacific. His work spans human rights, governance, indigenous philanthropy, and conservation.

Dominique Bikaba is the founding member and Executive Director of Strong Roots Congo, an NGO focused on conservation and sustainable development in the Democratic Republic of Congo. With 20 years of experience, Dominique works to balance human needs with the preservation of forests and wildlife, integrating local and indigenous knowledge into conservation efforts. He has also served as an independent consultant and authored various works on conservation and natural resource management.

Dr. Ihirangi Heke has spent over two decades integrating traditional Māori environmental knowledge into population health and wellness activities. He developed the Atua-Matua Framework, which repurposes ancient Māori knowledge for modern environmental sustainability, health, and ESG practices. Dr. Heke also consults with organizations like Google to incorporate indigenous knowledge into AI development and has contributed research to institutions such as Johns Hopkins Medical University and Otago University.

Melina Laboucan-Massimo, a Lubicon Cree from Northern Alberta, has over 20 years of experience in climate justice, Indigenous sovereignty, and women's rights. She is the Founder and Executive Director of Sacred Earth Solar, co-founder of Indigenous Climate Action, and an inaugural Fellow at the David Suzuki Foundation. Recognized as one of Canada's Climate Champions, Melina has worked and campaigned globally, advocating for climate justice and Indigenous rights.