On December 4, 2024, during Art Basel Miami Beach, LEBEC, a women-led strategy firm, hosted the exclusive panel “Women Leading Climate Action” at The Wolfsonian–FIU. The event gathered influential philanthropists, entrepreneurs, and investors to discuss the pivotal role of women in addressing climate change through an equity lens.
Moderated by Alix Lebec, recently recognized in the Worthy 100 for her impact on global issues, the panel featured prominent leaders including Yoca Arditi-Rocha of The CLEO Institute, Thais Lopez Vogel of VoLo Foundation, Stacey Boyd of Olivela, and Estefania Rebellon of Yes We Can World Foundation.
Lebec opened the conversation by underscoring the urgent need for innovative financial strategies in combating climate change, particularly its disproportionate effects on women and marginalized communities. “We are at a turning point,” she said. “The interconnected climate and social crises demand immediate action. Women are central to these solutions as leaders, and by directing philanthropic capital at scale, we can fuel transformative technologies for a resilient future.”
Yoca Arditi-Rocha highlighted the importance of diverse climate leadership. “At CLEO, we’re cultivating the next generation of diverse climate leaders and connecting local governments with substantial federal funding for climate initiatives,” she explained. “This intersectional approach is where we find the opportunity to scale necessary transformations.”
Thais Lopez Vogel spoke passionately about the urgency of catalytic investments. “As a mother of six, I’m motivated to secure a safe future for our children. Investing in climate solutions means investing in healthier communities and a sustainable future,” she stated.
Stacey Boyd emphasized the critical role of empowering women in climate action. “Women are often the most affected by environmental challenges, yet they drive change. By investing in their potential, we create sustainable solutions that benefit both people and the planet,” she noted.
Estefania Rebellon discussed the indirect consequences of climate change on migration patterns, particularly affecting families she serves at the US–Mexico border. “We recognize the interconnectedness of global challenges and the urgency of climate action,” she said.
The panel concluded with a strong call for urgency and collaboration, encouraging attendees to leverage philanthropy and innovative finance to drive systemic change. “Women hold the solutions,” said Lebec. “The time to act is now, and together, we can turn the tide on the climate crisis.”
Guests included representatives from the Lynn and Louis Wolfson II Foundation, Miguel Bezos, and Water.org, and enjoyed music by Miami-based producer Andrew “no. 22” McCoy.
For more information about investing in women and climate solutions, contact LEBEC.