Event Detail



Force of Water: Film Screening & Panel on Women Driving Climate Solutions

Date: July 23, 2025

Time: 6 pm - 8 pm PST

Location: McMenamins Mission Theater, 1624 NW Glisan St, Portland, OR 97209

REGISTER HERE!

​Join us for an inspiring evening of film, dialogue, and meaningful connection as we celebrate women leading climate solutions in their communities.

Ticket price:

  • $10 for WCS Members & Students

  • $15 for Non-Members

  • Interested in becoming a member? Please learn more and apply here

The evening begins with a screening of Force of Water, a compelling documentary by Green Empowerment that follows two communities in Ecuador and Uganda as they come together to build their own water systems—highlighting the powerful intersection of women’s leadership and climate resilience. Following the film, a dynamic panel discussion will feature women at the forefront of climate action, sharing their insights, challenges, and victories. We’ll close the night with a curated networking soiree—an opportunity to engage with fellow changemakers and amplify women’s voices shaping the future of climate action in the Pacific Northwest.

Access to clean water is one of the most urgent and universal climate challenges today. As communities around the world face increasing water insecurity, women are often on the frontlines—both as those most impacted and as the driving force behind grassroots solutions. According to UN Women, women are disproportionately affected by water scarcity, yet they are rarely recognized for their leadership in tackling it. This event shines a light on that leadership and the powerful role women play in building climate resilience.

Join us for an evening of inspiration, dialogue, and connection as we screen Force of Water, a new documentary by Green Empowerment that follows two communities in Ecuador and Uganda as they organize to build their own water systems. The film offers a compelling look at the intersection of women’s leadership, climate change, and community-based solutions. Attendees will gain new insights into the global water crisis, how women are leading change on the ground, and how storytelling can drive collective action.

The evening will feature a screening of Force of Water, followed by a panel discussion with climate leaders and water justice advocates. We’ll close with a curated networking soirée to connect with fellow changemakers and elevate women’s voices in the Pacific Northwest climate movement.

Speakers include:

Chairwoman at WCS, Founder and President at SmartWaste

Sara Fuentes is the Founder and President of SmartWaste. With 10 years of experience in the Waste and Recycling Industry, Sara is a leader in abating commercial waste. A passionate advocate for women and a tenacious leader, Sara is setting out to alter the cleantech landscape and finding her own niche. Sara draws on her experience working as an educator and Vice-Chair of the Women in CleanTech and Sustainability organization, where she is an impactful mentor and friend.

Smart Waste is a Minority Women-owned and operated start-up with a focus on Waste Technologies, Waste Systems and Vendor Management for Zero Waste programs. Our core values are Transparency, Circularity, and People. Transparency to establish trust. Circularity to explore and validate the downstream community. People are the heart of sustainability. Our Impact will influence our communities to practice a zero-waste lifestyle. We are looking to work with companies that are in alignment with our values and goals.

Additional speakers to be announced!


EVENT SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE! Please email us at info@womencleantechsustainability.org if you have any questions.