Juvarya Veltkamp

Biography: Juvarya is a dynamic and visionary leader, offering a rich tapestry of experiences in leadership, governance, finance, and climate justice. Her commitment to values-driven institutions, community wellbeing, and global collaboration are invaluable assets to the organizations she serves. Career: In her professional journey, Juvarya has played integral roles in the leadership of public agencies and purpose-driven organizations, serving as a Director at the Canada Climate Law Initiative and as Chief of Strategy at an investment fund. She champions transformative initiatives, from a robust impact investing framework emphasizing climate action, diversity, and inclusion, to a green economy strategy that doubled the number of green jobs, and municipal policies to cultivate a zero-carbon built environment. She now steers the Green Ports Forum, a network of cities and ports around the world spearheading the decarbonization of global supply chains. She leads teams with a focus on learning, wellness, and belonging, to cultivate a sense of inclusion and trust. Governance: Previously serving on the Vancity Board and several non-profits, Juvarya brings adept governance skills and financial acumen with an ability to navigate complex business issues. She is committed to continuous learning and professional development, and earned the Global Competent Boards Designation (GCB.D) and a certificate in Sustainability and Climate Risk (SCR) from the Global Association of Risk Professionals. Advisory Work: Beyond her professional endeavors, Juvarya exemplifies her commitment to impactful and sustainable initiatives and actively contributes voluntarily in a senior advisory capacity, including for Realize Capital's social finance fund, Vancouver’s Maritime Centre for Climate, and the District of Squamish’s Economic Leadership Team. Education: In addition to an MBA in Finance from the University of British Columba, Juvarya holds notable degrees including a BA (Hons) in Economics and Sustainable Development from the School of Oriental and African Studies and a Post Baccalaureate Certificate in International Business and Chinese from Capilano University, where she was awarded the university’s Alumni Award of Excellence for her work in climate action. Family life: Originally from the U.K. with Pakistani heritage, Juvarya spent her formative years in Saudi Arabia, and she is now grateful to live with her husband, two children, and two cats – Shmi Skywalker and Go Go Gamora - in Squamish, Canada, on the traditional and unceded territory of the Squamish Nation and the Coast Salish people.