Mary McLaughlin serves as the Special Advisor for Women and Climate. Mary, a Jamaican native, has built a diverse and impactful career that spans geology, education, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy. Initially trained as a geologist, Mary worked with the Jamaican Geological Survey before moving to the oil industry in Dallas, Texas. Her career path also includes roles as a schoolteacher in the Bahamas and later, as a devoted stay-at-home mom. In 1996, she founded McLaughlin Glazeware, a high-end giftware company specializing in enamel and bone China, serving esteemed clients such as Lyric Opera, Abbott, the White House, and Brooks Brothers.

In 2008, Mary channele her entrepreneurial spirit into a cause close to her heart, founding the Trees That Feed Foundation. This organization is dedicated to planting fruit trees to feed people, create jobs, and benefit the environment. Under her leadership, the foundation has distributed over 300,000 fruit trees and provided more than 250,000 meals to schoolchildren, significantly impacting smallholder farmers across 20 countries

Today, Mary resides in the Chicago area, surrounded by her family. Her work with Trees That Feed Foundation continues to grow, reflecting her deep commitment to environmental sustainability and community development. Her multifaceted career is a testament to her adaptability and dedication to making a positive difference in the world.