On March 27, we hosted a powerful Women in Climate Webinar celebrating the leadership, innovation, and advocacy of women driving change across the climate space. Held virtually on Zoom, this dynamic conversation brought together a diverse panel of voices working at the frontlines of sustainability, energy, youth advocacy, and community engagement.

The webinar was co-hosted by Megan Ort, who leads Residential Building Decarbonization efforts; Carmen Pei, from Solar Programs; and Dara Rivera, who works in Commercial Building Decarbonization. The discussion was moderated by Anilla Cherian, PhD, Principal at Sustain Resilience LLC, a Board Member at Sustainable Westchester, and a respected author and researcher.

Our panel featured an inspiring lineup of women with deep roots in climate advocacy and leadership. Niki Armacost, Mayor of Hastings-on-Hudson, brought insights from her work with the New York Conference of Mayors Energy, Environment & Technology Committee and the Women’s Advisory Committee. Norah Mosquea, a Sustainability Intern at Fordham University and an intern with EnergySmart Homes at Sustainable Westchester, shared her experiences as a young climate leader. Candida Rodriguez, Director of Community Engagement and Communications at Groundwork Hudson Valley and former Climate Consultant at the United Nations Development Programme, spoke on the power of local and global engagement. Judy Sandford, Managing Director of Sustainability Strategy & Communications at Sia/Addison and member of The Climate Reality Project Westchester Chapter, contributed perspectives on climate storytelling and strategy. Cat Sayles, Chapter Lead for Mothers Out Front Southern Westchester and COO of Sustainable Westchester, emphasized grassroots action and community organizing. Finally, Oona Spaeth, a youth climate leader affiliated with Fridays for Future NYC, the Sunrise Movement, and the U.S. Youth Action Council for the UN Ocean Decade, energized the discussion with her insights into youth activism and international collaboration.

Throughout the event, panelists shared their stories and insights—covering everything from local government leadership to youth climate action, nonprofit outreach, and decarbonization strategies. The conversation highlighted not only the challenges women face in the climate field, but also the creative, grassroots solutions they’re leading with impact and integrity.

Missed it? Watch the full webinar recording:
Watch on YouTube

Thank you to all who attended, and a special thanks to our incredible panelists and co-hosts. Together, we are building a more inclusive and resilient climate movement—one conversation at a time.