Hello, CCAN community!
I’m beyond excited to introduce myself as the new Virginia Communications Manager at the Chesapeake Climate Action Network (CCAN). My name is Kidest, and I’m eager to join this incredible organization and contribute to the vital work we’re doing to fight for climate justice in our communities. That’s me (third from left) at a Mountain Valley Pipeline protest outside the White House.
A bit about me: I’m originally from a small city in Ethiopia, and I moved to Washington, D.C., fourteen years ago. The DMV area, with its vibrant immigrant populations, has become my second home. Since then, I’ve been immersed in the environmental justice movement, working alongside a range of organizations to elevate marginalized voices and drive policy change. Over the past seven years, I’ve honed my skills as a communications strategist, storyteller, and advocate — focused on narrative change, digital advocacy, and organizing.
Why Climate Justice? Why Now?
Throughout my career, I’ve seen firsthand the power of storytelling. I believe that when we tell the right stories, we can shift public perceptions, dismantle harmful narratives, and push for the policies that will lead to meaningful change. For me, environmental justice is not just an issue. It’s a matter of equity. The communities that have been historically excluded from environmental decision-making — particularly Black, Indigenous, and other communities of color — are the ones most deeply impacted by the climate crisis. It’s essential that their voices are not just part of the conversation; they need to be leading it.
That’s why I’m so excited to join CCAN. Our work is rooted in ensuring that the most vulnerable communities are at the forefront of climate policy. As we continue to fight for a just, sustainable, and equitable future, my goal is to help amplify the voices of those who are most affected by the climate crisis and advocate for solutions that center their needs.
A Passion for Narrative Change
One of the core areas I’m focusing on at CCAN is narrative transformation. Over the years, I’ve worked on building communications strategies that scale up stories—stories that center the lived experiences of communities facing environmental harm. Whether through digital campaigns, public events, or media outreach, my work has always aimed at engaging people in a way that builds collective power and drives action.
In my previous roles, I’ve coordinated community events, press conferences, and online engagement strategies. I’ve helped to promote environmental justice through grassroots organizing, from developing digital content and crafting campaign messages to creating opportunities for communities to share their stories and advocate for change. As I settle into my new role at CCAN, I’m excited to bring these skills to our work in Virginia and beyond.
Working for Equity Throughout Our Region
Based in Richmond, Virginia, I’ve had the privilege of working with local organizations to amplify marginalized voices and advocate for policies that prioritize environmental justice and racial equity. Whether it’s advocating for cleaner air in low-income communities or working with residents to ensure their voices are heard in local decision-making, my commitment to advancing racial and environmental justice has always been at the core of my work.
Our region is filled with rich cultural heritages, and its diverse communities are vital to the fight for climate justice. From tackling pollution in rural Appalachian regions, to ensuring that communities are not left behind in the transition to clean energy, there is much work to be done. I’m excited to be part of a team that is so committed to making sure that communities are not only heard but empowered, across the Chesapeake region and nationwide.
Looking Forward: A Call to Action
I’m truly honored to join CCAN at such a pivotal time. The climate crisis is not just an environmental issue — it’s a human issue, and it disproportionately affects people of color and low-income communities. My focus will be on continuing to build CCAN’s communications strategy, engage with local communities, and advance policies that prioritize equity.
I invite you to help us build our people-powered climate movement. Whether you’re an organizer, an advocate, or just someone passionate about making a difference, your voice matters. Stay tuned for upcoming campaigns, events, and many other opportunities to get involved.
Thank you for welcoming me to the team. Together, we can work toward a future where environmental justice is a reality for all!
