2025 Conference Keynote Speakers

National Geographic: Education at the Edge of Exploration

What happens when exploration meets education? National Geographic Society’s Deputy to the Chief Education Officer Fay Gore—an educator, leader, and champion for transformational learning—set the stage for a powerful keynote session on the role of storytelling, science, and real-world experience in inspiring the next generation.

Following a short opening address, Fay moderated a conversation with Rachel Hansen, Serena McCalla, and Jamil Wilson, three National Geographic Explorers whose work is reshaping how we understand and care for the planet. Through their stories—ranging from biodiversity and community resilience to cultural heritage—we gained insights into how curiosity-driven discovery can inform our work, empower youth, and drive positive change in a rapidly shifting world.

Forecast: Funny with a Chance of Solutions

What do you get when you cross a climate comedian with a climate simulator? A keynote that’s equal parts inspiring, eye-opening, and fun.

In this unforgettable session, Esteban Gast—educator, climate communicator, and self-described “comedian for the planet”—started us off with a creative take on how humor can connect us, shift perspectives, and create space for climate hope. Through storytelling and stand-up, Esteban reminds us that building a better future isn’t just possible—it can also be joyful.

Then, Krystal Noiseux from the MIT Climate Pathways Project took us on an interactive journey through the En-ROADS Climate Solutions Simulator, a powerful tool co-developed by Climate Interactive and the MIT Sloan School of Management. Together, we explored what real, science-based climate solutions can look like, tested out different strategies, and collectively imagined a healthier, more resilient future for all.