Covalence Global, founded by Sophia Tabibian and Lulu Goulet-Hofsass, began with just ten people collecting 500 pounds of trash. What started as a local clean-up quickly grew into a broader mission: connecting youth leaders tackling climate issues in their own communities to form a global network of collaboration. Today, Covalence Global has built “covalent bonds” with young climate leaders across five continents. The organization recently hosted a three-day virtual conference featuring 10 youth speakers and three climate-focused organizations addressing a wide range of environmental challenges. Looking ahead, Covalence is developing a Young Climate Change Curriculum to increase climate literacy worldwide, alongside a chapter program that expands the work of Covalence San Francisco and empowers local youth to continue organizing events.

Sophia and Lulu are mentored by Bruce Mau, the visionary designer, innovator, and author whose groundbreaking projects and philosophy of “Massive Change” have influenced institutions and movements around the world.