Ben Hicks (he/him) is from Picton, Ontario, located on the traditional territory of the Huron-Wendat, Anishinaabe, and Haudenosaunee peoples. He holds a Bachelor of Environmental Studies (Honours Planning) from the University of Waterloo and brings a strong academic foundation in urban planning and environmental studies. Ben enjoys hiking, spending time outside, and wildlife, as well as watching and participating in sports, all of which contribute to his strong respect for healthy, active communities and natural areas.

Ben's interests are focused on local environmental and climate change issues, specifically green urban planning, sustainable transportation, and biodiversity protection. He brings experience from working across parks, heritage, and land development planning, along with a strong interest in municipal politics, public engagement, and local decision-making. Through this internship, Ben aims to combine his background in planning and environmental studies with his passion for community-based environmental advocacy to help advance sustainable, people-centred responses to local climate challenges.