Arlyn began upcycling early on, bringing home ‘garbage’ and transforming it into imaginative solutions. Today, she is a social entrepreneur and Founder of SAUSHI, an eco-conscious company that creates high-quality, one-of-a-kind furniture. Arlyn has worked with many global brands including The Ritz-Carlton, Porsche Design and H&M. She studied art and business in Italy and Germany, and earned her BFA from the University of Florida.

David is the Associate Dean of Students at FIU’s College of Architecture + The Arts, where he teaches architectural history and design. His research examines the interrelationships of politics and design in urbanism and modern architecture, with a focus on Africa. David and his wife Holly – both trained as architects – built their nearly zero net energy (ZNE) home in South Miami in 2012.

Emily is a jewelry designer specializing in metalwork. Using eco-friendly materials, she creates sustainable pieces and packaging under her label, The Atelier E. Her work reflects a strong connection with the environment and reverence for nature. A volunteer at Miami’s Colony1, she works with the sustainability hub and urban farm to help educate the community. Emily holds a B.S. in Clothing Design from the University of Minnesota at the Twin Cities.

Pandwe has dedicated her life’s work to ensuring all people have the resources to learn and grow in a healthy society. Blending experiences as an urban educator, community developer and small business and sustainability consultant, she founded EcoTech Visions, a green business incubator and accelerator, in 2013. Pandwe holds degrees from Scripps College, the Claremont Graduate University and the Harvard Graduate School.

Vassoula is President of AIGA Miami and Chief Experience Officer at Contexto, an innovation consultancy. She earned a Masters degree from The Royal College of Art London, and has worked with several global brands including Visa, Procter & Gamble, Hasbro and Samsung. Passionate about sustainability and mentorship, Vassoula teaches design at the Miami Ad School and FAU. She’s actively involved with several community initiatives including the 48-hour Miami Sustainability Jam.