Global Reads: How to Be a Climate Optimist

Aga Khan Foundation Canada is pleased to invite you to join our book club series, Global Reads.

Join us on September 12th for an engaging discussion with award-winning author Chris Turner to discuss his most recent book, How to Be a Climate Optimist: Blueprints for a Better World, for which he won the 2023 Shaughnessy Cohen Prize for Political Writing. During this event, we will delve into this book’s key themes and ideas and gain valuable insights into climate change.

Our distinguished guest and lead discussant will be Catherine Stewart, Canada’s Ambassador for Climate Change. Her extensive knowledge and expertise in the field will deepen the discussion and encourage participants to explore innovative ways to address climate challenges.

Whether you’re an avid reader, an environmental enthusiast, or simply curious about climate optimism, this book club event promises to be an enlightening and empowering experience.

Additional information for attendees:

• Networking/Refreshments: In-person attendees are encouraged to participate in an informal networking session and enjoy refreshments after the event. Don’t miss this opportunity to meet and greet our speakers and event participants.
• Book giveaway: Register anytime between today and September 5, 11:59 PM ET for a chance to win a free copy of the book (open to Canadian residents only).
• Please note that this event will be offered in English only.

Speakers

Catherine Stewart

Canada’s Ambassador for Climate Change

Catherine Stewart was appointed as Canada’s Ambassador for Climate Change in August 2022. With over 25 years in the federal government, Ambassador Stewart’s most recent role was Assistant Deputy Minister of International Affairs at Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC). Since 2014, she has served in senior executive roles at ECCC including as Canada’s Chief Negotiator for Climate Change, Director General Multilateral Affairs and Climate Change, and Director General for the Americas. Prior to joining ECCC, Ambassador Stewart was Director, Strategic Policy and Integration for the National Fighter Jet Procurement Secretariat and served as an executive at the Privy Council Office.

Chris Turner

Author

Chris Turner is a three-time nominee and one-time winner of the National Business Book Award, and a finalist for the Governor General’s Literary Award for Nonfiction (The Geography of Hope). He recently won the 2023 Shaughnessy Cohen Prize for Political Writing for his recent book, How to be a Climate Optimist – Blueprints for a Better World. He has long been one of Canada’s leading voices on climate change solutions and the global energy transition. His feature writing has earned ten National Magazine Awards, and he is the author of five books on technology, energy and climate. He lives in Calgary with his wife, the author Ashley Bristowe, and their two children.

About the series

Global Reads is a book club series where participants can connect and learn together with other globally minded professionals. Global Reads primarily explores recent works focused on international affairs, policy, or practice—with an emphasis on innovation, new voices, and diverse perspectives. Notable leaders and thinkers from the international affairs, global development, and allied sectors facilitate lively and inclusive discussions, providing a structure for collaborative interpretation, learning, and growth.

Join Global Reads to:

• Forge new connections with likeminded, globally focused thinkers
• Encounter inspiring, challenging, and unconventional ideas
• Gain a fresh perspective on your work
• Reignite your professional development goals

 

Register Today!

 

Questions? Please contact [email protected]