We are beyond thrilled to introduce you to our brand new, first ever Kiwis in Climate coordinator - Laura Somerset!
The coordinator is a new, paid part-time role, made possible by members’ generosity as we evolve KiC to a paid membership. From onboarding and enhancing member engagement, planning events, supporting advocacy efforts, and providing administrative support, the coordinator will free up our volunteer convenors to devote more time to the ‘big picture’ of Kiwis in Climate governance and growth.
It was a tough process with some amazing candidates, and we thank them for all the enthusiasm they brought to the table.
Laura Somerset entered New Zealand’s climate justice movement 10 years ago as a community organiser for Generation Zero, and co-founded the Climate Challenge, a conference empowering young people to take climate action. Building on colourful experience working in diplomacy for MFAT (including a stint at the NZ Embassy in Colombia) and in Chlöe Swarbrick’s parliamentary office, Laura is now studying a Masters in Sustainable Development at the University of Notre Dame, USA.
Demonstrating how passion somehow seems to expand capacity, Laura also works as a Research Assistant at the Environmental Change Initiative, writing climate adaptation briefings and providing administrative and project management support.
Laura is a linguaphile, speaking Spanish, Portuguese, and learning te reo Māori. She also enjoys yoga, exploring new countries in Latin America, and connecting with people across contexts and time zones to navigate complex multilayer issues.
We’re excited for Laura to help us streamline and elevate our KiC member experience, and channel our collective horsepower towards a healthier climate and more livable world for all.
Welcome, Laura! It’s a joy to have you on board.