Francois Alexander
CEO, Ti Ayiti Preparedness And Relief Institution (TAPARI)

François Alexandre is a community advocate, construction consultant, and CEO of Konscious Kontraktors, a firm dedicated to equitable development, design, and affordable housing solutions in underserved communities. He also serves as the Executive Director of Ti Ayiti Preparedness and Relief Institution, where he leads initiatives focused on disaster preparedness, community resilience, and access to resources for vulnerable populations. Born in Okay, Ayiti, and raised in South Florida, François has built a strong track record of service in Ti Ayiti, Miami, and across South Florida, advancing efforts in cultural preservation, grassroots organizing, and neighborhood empowerment. Through his leadership and collaborative approach, he continues to bridge the gap between community needs and strategic development, with a commitment to creating sustainable, community-driven impact.

Zelalem Adefris
Moderator
Chief Executive Officer, Catalyst Miami

Before being named CEO in April 2023, Zelalem was Catalyst Miami’s deputy CEO where she oversaw the implementation of the organization’s critical programs, policy agenda, and strategic plan. Zelalem joined Catalyst Miami in 2016, and has a deep passion for achieving climate, social, and racial justice.

In addition to her role at Catalyst Miami, Zelalem serves as a co-chair of the Miami Climate Alliance and as a philanthropic trustee of the Solutions Project. She has been recognized as a 2023 Rockwood Leadership Institute Fellow, 2020 Grist 50 Fixer, 2020 Florida International University Emerging Leader Finalist, and 2017 Miami Times New Generation of Dreamers awardee.

Zelalem holds an MPH in Global Environmental Health from Emory University and a Bachelor of Arts in Community Health from Brown University.

Cat Fernandez
South Florida Campaign Adviser
Youth Action Fund, Sunrise Movement Miami

Dr. Armen Henderson
President, Dade County Street Response (DCSR)