Jack Morel (political science)
Jack Morel is something of a climate superstar—he made such a difference during his first work term as a climate change policy analyst with the Ministry of Forests that he was asked to stay on for eight additional months.
A UVic Changemaker Award recipient
Jack is one of the recipients of the 2025 UVic Changemaker Awards, which celebrate co-op students who have made significant contributions to their workplace, community and/or to their own personal learning.
Jack was awarded the Sustainable Development Award, which recognizes students who have actively contributed towards the during their co-op work term.
Tackling climate policy in BC
Jack joined a small team to develop an internal climate adaptation policy initiative for the Ministry of Forests. The project aimed to embed inclusivity, informed decision-making, and Indigenous Knowledge, interests, and values across the Ministry’s policy development and review, to guide future policy.
His work has included reimagining climate adaptation policy goals to be more accessible and effective, designing communication and extension materials, engaging with interest holders, brainstorming and developing implementation tools and policy instruments, and collaborating closely with team members.
Aligning policy with Indigenous and reconciliation priorities
“My team worked to align our approach with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), ensuring that climate adaptation planning reflected principles of Indigenous governance, knowledge systems, and land stewardship,” says Jack.
“Our commitment to UNDRIP informed our vision for sustainable resource management in British Columbia—emphasizing solutions that are not only environmentally sound but also socially just and grounded in meaningful collaboration.”
Addressing sustainability and climate leadership
Jack has demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing sustainability and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 15 (Life on Land), and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions).
He has completed specialized training in climate insights, gender-based analysis+, equity, diversity and inclusion, and policy innovation.
“I’ve had the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to advancing sustainable climate action,” says Jack. “Through this experience, I’ve deepened my expertise in policy development, strengthened my confidence in engaging with diverse stakeholders, and developed a more holistic understanding of environmental governance.”
Taking a leadership role
Corie Kielbiski, Senior Policy Analyst and Jack’s co-op supervisor at the Ministry of Forests, immediately recognized his impact.
“He wasted no time in understanding our project, reading through all of our background materials and strategies, and creating thoughtful tools that helped clarify our goals,” says Corie.
“He brought imagination, creativity, and rigor to the work—producing clear, well-researched communication materials that impressed both our team and executive leadership.”
The impact of co-op
“I’m proud of the growth I’ve experienced during this co-op and the sustainability movement I’ve had the privilege to contribute towards,” says Jack. “Through this role, I’ve deepened my expertise in climate policy, strengthened my confidence in engaging with diverse stakeholders, and developed a more holistic understanding of environmental governance.
It’s both a privilege and a dream to contribute to climate policy, collaborate with inspiring climate champions, and pursue opportunities like the Changemaker Award.
Looking ahead, I’m focused on driving bold, impactful climate solutions and reinforcing my commitment to building a sustainable future—through both policy and action.”
Recently moving from a co-op position to a full-time permanent role with the Ministry of Environment and Parks, Jack continues to apply this experience toward advancing provincial climate and conservation priorities.