After checking in with us on the 16th floor for your nametag and program, join us for breakfast, networking, and a little local shopping at our Marketplace!

Zelalem Adefris
Chief Executive Officer, Catalyst Miami

Before being named CEO in April 2023, Zelalem was Catalyst Miami’s deputy CEO where she oversaw the implementation of the organization’s critical programs, policy agenda, and strategic plan. Zelalem joined Catalyst Miami in 2016, and has a deep passion for achieving climate, social, and racial justice.

In addition to her role at Catalyst Miami, Zelalem serves as a co-chair of the Miami Climate Alliance and as a philanthropic trustee of the Solutions Project. She has been recognized as a 2023 Rockwood Leadership Institute Fellow, 2020 Grist 50 Fixer, 2020 Florida International University Emerging Leader Finalist, and 2017 Miami Times New Generation of Dreamers awardee.

Zelalem holds an MPH in Global Environmental Health from Emory University and a Bachelor of Arts in Community Health from Brown University.

We will start the day by learning about innovative, community-based local initiatives that are making our communities safer, cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable, all while equipping us and empowering us to lead.

Francois Alexander
CEO, Ti Ayiti Preparedness And Relief Institution (TAPARI)

François Alexandre is a community advocate, construction consultant, and CEO of Konscious Kontraktors, a firm dedicated to equitable development, design, and affordable housing solutions in underserved communities. He also serves as the Executive Director of Ti Ayiti Preparedness and Relief Institution, where he leads initiatives focused on disaster preparedness, community resilience, and access to resources for vulnerable populations. Born in Okay, Ayiti, and raised in South Florida, François has built a strong track record of service in Ti Ayiti, Miami, and across South Florida, advancing efforts in cultural preservation, grassroots organizing, and neighborhood empowerment. Through his leadership and collaborative approach, he continues to bridge the gap between community needs and strategic development, with a commitment to creating sustainable, community-driven impact.

Zelalem Adefris
Moderator
Chief Executive Officer, Catalyst Miami

Before being named CEO in April 2023, Zelalem was Catalyst Miami’s deputy CEO where she oversaw the implementation of the organization’s critical programs, policy agenda, and strategic plan. Zelalem joined Catalyst Miami in 2016, and has a deep passion for achieving climate, social, and racial justice.

In addition to her role at Catalyst Miami, Zelalem serves as a co-chair of the Miami Climate Alliance and as a philanthropic trustee of the Solutions Project. She has been recognized as a 2023 Rockwood Leadership Institute Fellow, 2020 Grist 50 Fixer, 2020 Florida International University Emerging Leader Finalist, and 2017 Miami Times New Generation of Dreamers awardee.

Zelalem holds an MPH in Global Environmental Health from Emory University and a Bachelor of Arts in Community Health from Brown University.

Cat Fernandez
South Florida Campaign Adviser
Youth Action Fund, Sunrise Movement Miami

Dr. Armen Henderson
President, Dade County Street Response (DCSR)

A discussion on how we can prepare our homes for climate change through community-driven policy and initiatives that create solutions while addressing our affordable housing crisis.

Exploring how climate solutions bring money back into our communities. Learn more about a variety of businesses and initiatives that are creating better paying jobs and growing local economies all while protecting our planet and addressing climate change.

Enjoy performances from local artists, offerings from local small businesses, and more during our lunch hour.

We will hear from speakers who have helped create hurricane and other emergency preparedness and response programs informed directly by frontline communities, including one right here in Miami-Dade.

This panel explores the intersection of climate and health in Miami-Dade — how extreme weather events could disrupt healthcare access, how the healthcare industry can support sustainability, and campaigns to protect the most vulnerable from the health impacts of climate change.

We will discuss soaring gas and light bills in Florida: Why rates are so high, what communities are most impacted, and what solutions exist.

Real talk about how we can get funding and resources to scale our climate justice solutions during this challenging era.

Make sure to stick around for our close-out with Catalyst Miami CEO, Zelalem Adefris! All attendees are entered into our raffle giveaway and must be present at the end of the day to claim their prize.