The Purpose of WELA’s Leadership Programs

WELA’s leadership programs aim to empower women and gender diverse individuals to become effective leaders in their respective fields, driving positive change in their communities and the environment.

Valerie Saavedra Lux: A Pioneer in Sustainable Architecture

Valerie Saavedra Lux is a highly respected architect with a strong passion for sustainable design. Her work is deeply rooted in the principles of regenerative design, which seeks to create buildings and environments that not only minimize harm but also promote the well-being of both humans and the planet.

A Commitment to Sustainability

Lux’s commitment to sustainability is evident in her work, which is guided by a deep understanding of the impact of the built environment on the environment. She believes that architecture has the power to shape the future, and that it is our responsibility to create buildings and spaces that are not only functional but also environmentally conscious. Key principles of sustainable design: + Minimizing waste and reducing carbon footprint + Using locally sourced materials and reducing transportation emissions + Incorporating natural ventilation and daylighting to reduce energy consumption + Designing buildings that promote occupant well-being and productivity

Regenerative Design

Lux’s work is also deeply influenced by the principles of regenerative design, which seeks to create buildings and environments that not only minimize harm but also promote the well-being of both humans and the planet. This approach requires a holistic understanding of the built environment and its impact on the natural world. Key principles of regenerative design: + Creating buildings that promote biodiversity and ecosystem services + Incorporating natural systems and processes into building design + Using materials and systems that are biodegradable and non-toxic + Designing buildings that are resilient and adaptable to changing environmental conditions

Expertise and Education

In addition to her work as an architect, Lux is also a Casual Academic at Sydney University, where she shares her expertise with students and researchers.

The Impact of Valerie’s Work

Valerie’s work has a profound impact on the built environment, particularly in the realm of sustainability and education. Her dedication to empowering architects, clients, and students has led to the creation of innovative and environmentally conscious designs.

Key Contributions

The Architects Declare Movement

The Architects Declare movement is a global initiative that brings together architects, designers, and industry leaders to address the climate crisis. Founded in 2019, the movement aims to reduce the built environment’s carbon footprint and promote sustainable design practices. Valerie, a member of the movement, is part of a group of innovators who are working to create a more sustainable future.

The Problem

The built environment is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for around 40% of global emissions.

Empowering Women and Gender-Diverse Individuals to Drive Environmental Change in the Architecture and Design Fields.

The Mission of WELA

WELA’s mission is to empower women and gender-diverse individuals in the architecture and design fields to drive environmental change. This is achieved through a combination of leadership development, mentorship, and networking opportunities. By providing participants with the skills and networks needed to implement sustainable practices, WELA aims to create a more environmentally conscious and inclusive industry.

Key Components of WELA’s Programs

WELA’s programs have also been recognized by the Canadian government as a leading provider of leadership development programs for Indigenous peoples and women.

The Power of WELA’s Programs

WELA’s programs have been instrumental in empowering women and gender-diverse leaders across Canada. By providing a safe and inclusive space for participants to develop their leadership skills, WELA has helped thousands of individuals achieve their full potential.

The report provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of gender equality in Australia, with a focus on the intersections between gender, climate change, and environmental justice.

Introduction

The launch of the report marked a significant milestone in the ongoing conversation about the intersection of gender, climate change, and environmental justice in Australia. The report’s findings and recommendations aim to inform policy and practice, and to contribute to a more equitable and sustainable future for all Australians.

Key Findings

The report highlights several key areas where gender equality is being impacted by climate change and environmental degradation.

The Rise of Compassionate Leadership

Compassionate leadership is a growing trend that prioritizes empathy, kindness, and understanding in decision-making. This approach recognizes that the most pressing issues of our time, such as climate change, social inequality, and economic instability, require a holistic and people-centered perspective.

Key Characteristics of Compassionate Leadership