Kiyoshi Miyasaka is the chief priest of Yatsurugi Shrine, preserves centuries-old traditions and leads rituals honoring Lake Suwa’s Omiwatari—the sacred ice ridge phenomenon. As both spiritual leader and climate observer, he and his followers document seasonal changes, protecting cultural heritage and ensuring the Omiwatari’s significance is passed to future generations. Yoshimi Fukumura is a climate change researcher and consultant based in Japan. Specializing in cultural heritage adaptation, Yoshimi develops workshops and educational tools to foster intergenerational learning. With a background in environmental studies, she works to bridge science and tradition, helping communities prepare for climate risks and sustainable futures.

Eric Rasmussen, MD, MDM, FACP is the Research Director for KASL in Kwajalein Atoll, RMI. He is an internal medicine physician with both undergraduate and medical degrees from Stanford University and a European Master’s degree in disaster medicine from the UN World Health Organization’s affiliate CEMEC in Italy.

Taylor Deleary and Diamond McGahey are community members & Indigenous Guardians from Deshkan Ziibiing. Since 2021, Brennan Vogel has worked with the Department of Treaties Lands and Environment at Deshkan Ziibiing (Chippewas of the Thames FIrst Nation). He also serves as Assistant Professor and Research Fellow with Huron University College.