Meet three climate leaders across the Obama Leadership Network
Climate changemakers share their journeys to driving global change and shaping a sustainable future.
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When Jothsna Harris walked into the first Obama Leadership Network climate convening in Chicago in July, something unexpected happened. As she stood among a diverse group of changemakers, her lifelong imposter syndrome began to dissolve. She saw herself as part of a global movement of people united to combat climate change and promote climate justice.
"I took a mental snapshot of that moment,” she recalled, “I hold onto it as a reminder that there are countless people working relentlessly to build a better world.”
The gathering of 29 Obama Foundation Leaders, Scholars, Fellows, and Voyagers from 12 countries wasn’t just a meeting—it was a turning point. These connections, formed over three days of collaboration and reflection fueled their commitment to building a more sustainable future. The gathering built upon activity in the Obama Leadership Network's Climate Community of Practice in recent years. And In 2026, they’ll have a new gathering place for this mission: the Obama Presidential Center, a LEED-Platinum campus on Chicago’s South Side that’s as committed to sustainability as the changemakers it will host.
Ciara Byrne, 2019 Obama Foundation Fellow
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Hear about how Ciara’s struggles with anxiety and depression in her youth compelled her to launch a gardening nonprofit.
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Jothsna Harris, 2023 Obama Foundation Leaders USA — Generation X
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Watch Jothsna share how her garden sparked her work with climate change.
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Isabella Stratta, 2023-2025 Obama-Chesky Voyager — Generation Z
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Listen to Isabella Stratta share how watching students throw away food in her college dining hall launched her mission to keep food out of landfills.
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