Rowan Gentleman-Sylvester

Executive Director

Rowan (she/her) is a seasoned convenor, civic educator, and engagement practitioner with a deep passion for democracy in action. As a settler living on the unceded territories of the Coast Salish peoples, she brings a critical lens to questions of power, privilege, and place in shaping communities.

Rowan stepped into the Executive Director role at CityHive in 2023, building on several years of leadership within the organization. She has led a range of youth-driven initiatives at the intersection of civic engagement and climate action, including collaborations with Transport2050, BC Hydro’s Clean Power 2040, and CleanBC. She has designed and delivered many of CityHive’s flagship programs—such as City Shapers cohorts, the North Shore Young Civic Forum, and the Elections Ambassadors—and recently co-chaired IAP2 Canada’s Young Professionals’ Community of Practice. Rowan is also a current member of Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Youth Council, contributing youth perspectives to national climate policy and decision-making.

With a strong grounding in experiential learning, place-based climate action, and youth civic leadership, Rowan’s work explores the role of young people (ages 13–30) in democratic processes, navigating the space between grassroots activism and institutional change. She’s continually inspired by the creativity, clarity, and courage that youth bring to tackling complex societal challenges.

Outside of work, you can find Rowan savouring local food, scouring thrift shops, or hiking North Shore trails with her dog Bella.