Waterkeeper Alliance Appoints Sharif Jamil and Xavier Cortada to Board of Directors
By: Waterkeeper Alliance
Waterkeeper Alliance proudly welcomes two distinguished leaders, Sharif Jamil and Xavier Cortada, to its esteemed Board of Directors. Their appointments strengthen and advance the Alliance’s mission to protect the fundamental right to clean water in communities around the world.
Waterkeeper Alliance unites a global water movement of more than 300 community-based clean water advocates who collectively protect nearly six million miles of waterways in 47 countries. The Board of Directors, composed of local Waterkeepers and volunteer leaders from a range of professional backgrounds, diversifies the expertise and perspectives that are essential to solving urgent water challenges and advancing environmental justice to ensure that clean, healthy, and abundant water is accessible for all people and the planet.
Sharif Jamil, the Buriganga Riverkeeper and coordinator of Waterkeepers Bangladesh, is a prominent environmental activist who brings invaluable experience in grassroots organizing and environmental advocacy. For over a decade, Jamil has been at the forefront of initiatives to protect Bangladesh’s rivers, wetlands, and forests through his leadership roles in Bangladesh Poribesh Andolon, Dhoritri Rokhhay Amra, and Waterkeepers Bangladesh.
“I am deeply honored to serve on the Board of Directors of Waterkeeper Alliance,” said Jamil. “I look forward to leveraging my experience in community engagement and environmental justice to contribute meaningfully to the Alliance’s mission worldwide.”
Xavier Cortada, a renowned eco-artist and advocate based in Miami, Florida, brings decades of experience using art as a catalyst for addressing climate change, biodiversity loss, and sea-level rise. His innovative approach to community engagement and problem-solving through art has garnered international acclaim, making him a pivotal addition to the Alliance’s board. Cortada’s extensive portfolio includes over 150 public artworks and collaborations with prestigious institutions worldwide, including CERN, the White House, and the World Bank.
“Joining the Waterkeeper Alliance Board of Directors is an honor,” said Cortada. “I am committed to leveraging art and creativity to advance the Alliance’s mission of safeguarding global waterways and promoting sustainable practices.”
Waterkeeper Alliance CEO Marc Yaggi expressed enthusiasm about Cortada and Jamil joining the board, emphasizing their unique perspectives and dedication to environmental conservation. “We’re thrilled to welcome Sharif’s and Xavier’s unparalleled expertise, unique contributions, and passion to our board,” said Yaggi. “Their leadership will be instrumental in advancing our efforts to protect clean water and combat climate change globally.”
As board members, Jamil and Cortada will collaborate with fellow directors to guide Waterkeeper Alliance’s strategic initiatives, enhance global partnerships, and advocate for policies that ensure access to clean and safe water for communities worldwide.