Planet Courage: Facing Fear with Stories, Solutions & Superpowers (DC Climate Week)

​Fear is real — when it comes to climate change and in so many other parts of life. It can make us feel small, isolated, or unsure of how to move forward. But fear is not the only story available to us.

​When we tell the truth about what we’re facing, we unlock power. When we reconnect with our stories, our solutions, and our superpowers, we begin to build something different.

​On April 23 in Washington, DC, join us for a powerful 90-minute evening experience featuring live storytelling, featured conversations, performances, guided reflection, and community connection. With an intimate gathering of about 40 people, this event is designed to create space for honesty, courage, and meaningful connection.

​Together, we’ll explore what it means to choose power in the face of fear — in our own lives, in our work, and in this climate moment. You’ll have the chance to reflect on your own story, connect with others, and step more fully into the courage this moment requires.

​Planet Courage is a growing initiative designed to help students and communities face fear — related to climate and beyond — with stories, solutions, and superpowers of their own. This evening is both a celebration and a beginning: a chance to experience Planet Courage firsthand, and to help shape how it reaches people across the DMV and beyond.

​If you believe fear does not get the final word, this room is for you.

​Featured Conversations & Performances

​Fireside chat guest speakers include...

​Cameron Oglesby
Cameron Oglesby is an award-winning environmental justice organizer, strategist, oral historian, and journalist whose storytelling centers injustice, joy, resilience, and land stewardship in Black, Indigenous, rural, and southern communities. She is Senior Consultant for Narrative and Influence at Frontline Solutions and the founder and executive director of the Environmental Justice Oral History Project.

​Regina Harmon
Regina Harmon is the CEO of Food Recovery Network and a nationally recognized leader at the intersection of food waste, hunger, and environmental impact. She is a board member of Food Tank and Earth Island Institute, sits on ReFED’s Advisory Council, and brings a powerful perspective on equity, food systems, and collective action.

​Robin Okunowo
Robin Okunowo is an environmental and social justice advocate pursuing a Master’s in Public Policy at American University. Formerly with Captain Planet Foundation’s Planeteer Alliance, she has supported young climate leaders around the world and brings a hopeful, deeply personal perspective on climate resilience, justice, and community action.

​Performances by...

​Laronica Vegas
Laronica Vegas is a Washington, DC-based drag performer known for lighting up queer community spaces across the DMV. Her performances bring presence, joy, and celebration to local LGBTQ+ events and community gatherings.

​Clara Kitongo
Clara Kitongo is a musician, singer, and Tree Equity Manager whose work connects community care, environmental justice, and creativity. With a background in public policy and community-centered sustainability work, she brings both heart and artistry to her performance.

​The night's hosts

​Matt Scott, Host
Matt Scott is the founder of Planet Courage and a nationally recognized storyteller and engagement leader who helps everyday people connect with climate solutions. He serves as Director of Storytelling and Engagement at a leading climate solutions nonprofit and hosts a docuseries spotlighting local climate heroes across the U.S.

​Erik Douds, Co-Host
Erik Douds is the founder of Douds Studio and an adventure filmmaker whose work centers underrepresented voices and stories at the intersection of environment, justice, and human experience. His storytelling is shaped by a deep commitment to resilience, accessibility, and expanding who gets seen in outdoor and climate narratives.