Michelle Nguyen-Ta

I am a third year Honours Geography and Environmental Management student at the University of Waterloo and an Open Data Analyst and Indigenous Data Sovereignty Research Intern at OpenNorth, Canada's leading open data and civic technology non-profit organisation. At OpenNorth, I am currently leading a research study which investigates the progress of G-20 national governments on the development of open data programs and policies specifically for Indigenous groups, and how international best practices surrounding the collection, use and sharing of open data, in respect to OCAP™ principles, provide a clearer example of Indigenous resurgence for self-determination and capacity building. I am fascinated with climate governance, sustainable transportation, ICTs for social development, and smart city growth. I am exploring these topics throughout my undergraduate studies, with goals to pursue one of my passions as a method to shift human behaviour in ways that foster environmental sustainability, social inclusivity, global change and the health of ecosystem services upon which all life depends. I believe my experience with numerous databases; quantitative and qualitative research design and analysis; report writing; and subnational, national and international public policy will be an asset to the social, environmental, urban planning and government sectors.