Riya Kumar

Riya standing in front of a vibrant green hedge while smiling at the camera

Communications Assistant

Riya (she/her) is a sustainability-focused community and urban development professional committed to climate action and resilient urban spaces. With a background in sustainable business and community planning, she has worked on projects centered on community engagement, climate adaptation, and place-based solutions.Informed by her immigrant experiences, Riya is particularly interested in the role of third spaces in fostering a sense of belonging for newcomers. She has contributed to developing a community engagement plan aligned with IAP2 guidelines for SFU’s 2030 Climate Action Plan and has supported placemaking events and communications with Voor Urban Labs.Fluent in four Indian languages, Riya brings a deep appreciation for cultural diversity and storytelling to her work. She strives to lead a low-consumption lifestyle, integrating sustainability into all aspects of her life. In her free time, you’ll likely find her at a café or strolling along the waterfront, hoping to spot some whales.