Honours Bachelor of Social Sciences in International Development and Globalization (Co-Op) • University of Ottawa
Bio
Alyssa graduated from the University of Ottawa majoring in International Development and minoring in Economics. Combining these subjects, she gained a critical understanding of the socio-economic and political processes that shape our society. By conducting a linear regression model in one statistics course, Alyssa recognized the tension between economic development and environmental degradation, inspiring her to pursue meaningful work in sustainable development.
Her passion for sustainability was further reinforced during her time at Global Affairs Canada’s Sustainable Buildings Program, where she facilitated green building certifications and managed extensive data collection across 180 diplomatic missions in 110 countries to meet mandatory sustainability reporting requirements. Recognizing that the built environment accounts for roughly 39% of global emissions, Alyssa developed a keen interest in sustainability management, focusing on reducing industry impacts through resource conservation, rethinking, and waste reduction.
In May, Alyssa represented IISD Next at the 10th World Water Forum and the 6th General Assembly for the World Youth Parliament for Water (WYPW) in Bali, Indonesia. There, she participated in several youth capacity-building and water-related events, engaged with high-level officials, and helped formalize the WYPW Youth Statement. This experience fueled her passion for water issues, specifically water conservation and equitable access. Additionally, as a Student Energy Fellow (2024), Alyssa is exploring the role of clean energy transitions and equitable access in achieving sustainable development. For Alyssa, these experiences have highlighted the necessity of cross-sector collaboration in tackling water and energy challenges, which she plans to explore further in her master’s studies and research.
Alyssa has also held various roles in change management (CM) and transformation, where she supported the development and delivery of behavioural and organizational CM strategies and workshops in the public sector. Currently, Alyssa works for the International Sustainable Campus Network (ISCN), helping universities collaborate to advance sustainability in their research, teaching, and campus operations.
As a proud plant mom, Alyssa enjoys outdoor activities (i.e., running, gardening, community clean-ups), soccer, and spending quality time with family and friends, including her furry, four-legged ones. She also has a passion for interior design and is an avid movie and popcorn enthusiast (to her, one cannot occur without the other).