Climate Hug Award Winner: Elena Sales
This month, Elena Sales received the Climate Hug Award, a recognition that combines her environmental commitment and passion for math.
Elena grew up on a large organic blueberry farm in Errington, surrounded by her extended family. Homeschooled, she spent plenty of time exploring the nearby woods, instilling in her a deep appreciation for nature. Her grandmother, Joanne Sales, won the same award in May 2024, showing that environmental advocacy runs in the family.
Elena has channeled her love for the environment into her studies. Now a fourth-year engineering student at McGill University, she leads the Sustainability in Engineering initiative. “We help engineers see how sustainability impacts their daily lives and work,” she explains. “Every design choice affects the environment, from how things are made to how they’re disposed of. Plus, there are exciting job opportunities in this field, especially in renewable energy.”
In the summer of 2024, she took her passion global. As part of Engineers Without Borders Canada, Elena moved to Uganda for three months. Her project involved creating a biogas digester, converting cow manure into clean cooking gas. “Working on that project connected me with the people and challenges on the ground,” she shared.
Elena’s journey took another turn when she attended key international conferences. “It was pure luck that led me to The Basel, Rotterdam, and Stockholm Conventions in Geneva,” she said. This UN conference aims to protect human health and the environment by regulating hazardous chemicals and waste. She noticed a gap: while there were many diplomats, there weren’t enough engineers and scientists.
Following this, she participated in COP 30 Simulation in Cairo in October 2025 and then attended COP 30 in Brazil. These events, partially funded by McGill and ClimaTalk, aimed to elevate youth voices in climate policy discussions. “The issues are complex,” she noted. “Many climate-related topics, like adaptation and finance, overlap with biodiversity and pollution discussions. Each forum contributes to real change.”
Despite the numerous environmental challenges we face, Elena remains hopeful. “So many passionate people are doing great work in technology, education, and community engagement,” she reflects. “That gives me hope for the future.”
Every Climate Hug Award comes with a $50 prize, supported by Communities To Protect Our Coast and the Nanoose Lions Club.
Elena’s journey reminds us that individual actions can make a difference, and with growing awareness, there’s potential for real change. Today, young leaders like her are paving the way for a more sustainable future.
