Rowan Gentleman-Sylvester (she/her) is the Executive Director of CityHive, a Vancouver-based non-profit on a mission to transform how young people are engaged in shaping their cities and communities. A passionate civic educator and systems thinker, Rowan has spent her career building meaningful opportunities for youth to lead change — from co-designing policy solutions with governments to launching city-wide initiatives on climate, housing, and equity.
She has spoken at national and international conferences, collaborated with multiple levels of government to strengthen youth engagement practices, and led leading-edge programs that blend civic education, community organizing, and systems change. Rowan brings a deep belief in the power of youth leadership to address the most urgent issues of our time — and a lot of heart to the work of making civic spaces more inclusive, creative, and just.