I’m Megan Somerville in HBA1, Section 3. My pre-Ivey program was majoring in Spanish Language and Hispanic Culture so I speak some Spanish but also French. I’m a section representative with the Ivey Social Impact Club and VP Events with WaterAid Western Club. I enjoy playing volleyball, soccer, and softball, recently did a MudGirl Run fundraiser for breast cancer, and have RCM Level 10 piano. My job commentating about the Toronto Zoo’s environmental conservation initiatives sparked my interest in sustainability, which will hopefully be part of my future career. I currently live with four friends, three cats, and a dog. 

What is your personal definition of sustainability? 

To me, sustainability is finding a healthy balance between the environmental, social, and economic needs of today’s society and the planet, which can then be continued in the future. I believe that the environment, society, and economy are all very interconnected. I think sustainability is about implementing systems and practices that not only improve the current state, but also anticipate what will be needed in the future. Reflecting on the present state of an issue helps identify the strengths and weaknesses, and guide us to make future decisions that are well-informed and long-lasting. 

What role do you see sustainability playing in your professional career?

I see sustainability playing a significant role in my professional career. Although I am not set on a specific job yet, I know that I would like my career to be sustainability-focused. Whether this means working at a company focused on sustainability or in an ESG-related position, I know that being in a role that contributes to positive change would be very fulfilling. More specifically, I find the economic and social benefits that come with implementing sustainable systems/programs in communities or business very interesting and important to our future. For example, a conservation non-profit group helped communities in Bolivia have their own shearing practice of the vicuña species. Over half of Bolivia’s population lives in poverty, and these types of programs help change this. They create jobs, a source of income, and fuel the survival of a species that was once close to extinction. Situations where these types of sustainable practices are mutually beneficial is something I would love to learn more about. 

What sustainability projects have you been engaged in? 

My summer job at the Toronto Zoo contributed to my interest in sustainable practices. Part of my responsibilities included providing a narration of Zoo attractions, conservation initiatives, and wildlife facts to guests on the transportation shuttle bus. I explained and promoted the many environmental conservation initiatives happening at the Zoo and how important they were in sustaining the future of various plant and wildlife species. Doing my own research, I learned how interdependent we are and how important these types of initiatives are for the future preservation and conservation of the natural environment. 

When I joined Western I looked to involve myself in a sustainability-related activity and settled on joining the WaterAid Western Club. WaterAid Western is the Western University chapter for the non-profit organization WaterAid, which strives to make clean water, decent sanitation, and good hygiene accessible to everyone, as well as spread awareness about the water crisis. I’m currently VP Events of the Club where I plan and coordinate a team in running various events, intended to fundraise, educate, and raise awareness to students. This year we have held many successful events and are currently organizing a Sustainability Conference with guest speakers at the end of March.