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Future Cities Institute Managing Director Eryn Stewart joined a powerful conversation with one of the world’s most respected voices in climate and development: Sir Andrew Steer. The conversation was presented as part of the TD Walter Bean Lecture 2025. 

Speaking to a full auditorium of Grade 8-12 students, Sir Andrew shared why this generation has what it takes to shape the future of our cities, our communities, and our planet through bold ideas and grounded action. Drawing on a career that has spanned the World Bank, the World Resources Institute, and the Bezos Earth Fund, his message was clear: leadership starts now. 

Eryn brought a sharp and Future Cities Institute lens to the discussion, reflecting on what it means to build resilient cities and how young people across Canada are already doing that work through applied research, community partnerships, and new ways of thinking. 

Watch the full lecture: https://youtu.be/hIlQ3jcPXkQ  

From affordable housing to AI-driven mobility, University of Waterloo students turned bold ideas into actionable solutions at the inaugural Future Cities Innovation Challenge. 

The inaugural Future Cities Innovation Challenge, co-hosted by Velocity and the Future Cities Institute, brought startup energy to real-world urban issues. 
 
Their solutions addressed real-world problems, from sustainable infrastructure to the ethical use of technology, bringing Waterloo’s Global Futures vision to life. The event showcased the power of student innovation in shaping healthy, prosperous, and sustainable cities. Explore six standout ideas that are helping build the cities of tomorrow.