The upcoming ENGAGE event, hosted by NEXTNiagara, in partnership with the GNCC, is set to spark meaningful discussions between young professionals and community leaders about what constitutes a livable community in Niagara, emphasizing inclusion and sustainability.
Featured keynote speakers include Reza Pourvaziry, Chair of the Urban Economy Forum (UEF) and Founder of the World Urban Pavilion (WUP) in Regent Park, and Drew Toth from Elevate Living, a local real estate developer embracing New Urbanism. Over 150 community members are expected to attend and engage in this vital conversation.
“There’s so much this region has to offer, and immense potential for young leaders to make an impact,” Drew notes. “The power for change and community growth lies in our hands, and collaboration is the key to achieving it.”
Reza Pourvaziry, Former First Global Advocate of UN-Habitat, is a global leader focused on aligning the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals with local practices. UEF and Pourvaziry have collaborated with international and local organizations and cities to enhance their commitment to social and environmental responsibility, from manufacturers to municipalities and real estate developers.
“Canada is currently the Chair of the Sustainable Development Goals Advocacy Group,” Reza explains. “We have a unique opportunity to showcase our leadership in these goals to the world.” He emphasizes that the Niagara region is well-positioned to lead in sustainable tourism, a central theme of the UEF6’s annual event happening this September.
The Pavilion is a global knowledge exchange hub for sustainable urbanization and best practices, and a strategic collaboration between Urban Economy Forum, UN-Habitat, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, supported by Daniels. The Pavilion is ready to work with organizations leading and shaping and urban transformation for better economic, social, and environmental outcomes in our cities and urban areas.
The atmosphere is charged with excitement as participants prepare to explore priorities, solutions, and innovative ways to collaborate within the Niagara region.
