Kalain Hosein’s journey from Trinidad and Tobago to Columbia University has been rooted in a deep commitment to public service. Pivoting from an academic track and work in the oil and gas industry, Hosein is now a climate champion for his community. A natural storyteller with a sharp scientific mind, Hosein has become a trusted voice for the diverse audiences he reports to, initially as a local weatherman and now as a climate communicator navigating the global stage.

Since launching Trinidad’s first dedicated weather channel, Hosein has balanced his career as a journalist with his studies in the M.A. in Climate and Society program at the Columbia Climate School. His reporting centers on small island developing states, natural disasters and climate resilience. This summer, Hosein will work as a climate impact scholar with Jeffrey Schlegelmilch at the National Center for Disaster Preparedness on the Disaster Genome Project, which aims to advance the understanding of disaster science. Learn more about Hosein’s story in the Q&A below.

Tell us a little about your background.

I am from Trinidad and Tobago and moved to Houston, Texas, in 2010, where I attended high school and later enrolled at Texas A&M University. I completed my undergraduate degree in geophysics and seismology. At the time, my career path was leading me toward the oil and gas industry, which is what my parents were mostly supportive of, as job prospects back home were more related to this sector.

However, throughout my undergraduate years, I stayed connected to my original passion—meteorology—by adding it as a minor, along with geology, math and a few other subjects. During this time, I also created an online digital media platform called the Trinidad and Tobago Weather Center. That marked my first step into the world of journalism. After my undergraduate studies, I returned home and was headhunted by CNC3 to become a weather anchor. That opportunity launched my career in journalism. At first, I was simply delivering weather forecasts, but I soon found myself reporting on the aftermath of disasters—events that were affecting specific communities more frequently and with greater impact. It made me ask: Why? That question led me to climate change.

When did you start focusing on climate?

During the latter half of my two-and-a-half years at CNC3 and Guardian Media, I began integrating climate reporting into my nightly weather forecasts. I became a recognized voice for climate change in the Caribbean—what some call a “voice for small island developing states.” I attended regional events and reported from the ground, combining science journalism with community advocacy.

In 2022, I was invited to attend and moderate a panel at COP27 in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt. It was my first time on the international stage, and I was just 23 or 24 years old—moderating a panel with prime ministers and presidents. That moment was transformative. Everything before, during and after that event shifted the course of my career.

Since then, I’ve positioned myself as a climate reporter for Trinidad and Tobago. My work sits at the intersection of science journalism and public service—ensuring that people are informed, safe and prepared. I’ve always wanted to make myself available, whether through my skills or my time.

Why did you apply to the Climate and Society program?

I applied to several graduate programs, but Columbia stood out for its truly interdisciplinary design. The core curriculum, broad range of electives and flexible specializations allowed me to shape the experience around my personal and professional goals. I appreciated that the program doesn’t box students into a narrow path—instead, it encourages a blend of science, policy, communication and community engagement. Another major draw was the global nature of Columbia’s community and the incredible diversity of New York City itself. I wasn’t just looking for a degree—I wanted an experience that would challenge and grow with me.

One of the most powerful aspects of this program is that no two students have the same journey. You could ask three people in the cohort about their experience and get three completely different, equally rich answers. My personal mantra is “Focus on the things you can control,” and pursuing this degree felt like a meaningful and empowering next step.

Which classes have been the most memorable and why?

I came into this program especially excited to take Dynamics of Climate Variability and Change, and it’s been one of my favorite classes so far—it really deepened my understanding of Earth systems.

Another standout has been Climate Change and Disaster Management with Jeff Schlegelmilch. I also took Climate Change Law and Policy with Sheila Foster, which was incredibly eye-opening. The class dives into how legal frameworks can either support or hinder climate action. It’s fascinating, and a bit wild, to see how U.S. legal systems operate both independently and together, and how laws not explicitly written for climate can still be leveraged to address it.

I also really appreciate the way Foster structured the course—it was discussion-heavy, with student-led presentations that make a complex topic like law feel much more accessible. It’s challenged me to rethink how policy is written, interpreted and enforced. Looking ahead, I’m especially excited for Climate Change Risk Management. Learning how to quantify and communicate risk is essential, not just for journalism, but also for helping communities prepare and respond to extreme weather events in the face of the climate crisis.

What do you envision as your future role in solving the climate crisis?

If you ask any journalist, they’ll tell you—once you’re bitten by the bug, you never stop wanting to be a journalist. No matter what happens in the future, I know I want to keep telling stories. “Solving the climate crisis” sounds daunting, but for me, it’s about communication—translating technical knowledge into something the public can understand and use. After witnessing firsthand the impacts of extreme rainfall, sea level rise and other climate disasters, I’ve seen just how vital disaster preparedness and risk reduction are. I’m also interested in shaping policy that supports communities long before and after a disaster strikes.

Long-term, I want to keep bridging the gap between science and society. Whether that’s through journalism, disaster risk reduction or policy work, my goal is to help people prepare, adapt and advocate for change. Journalism, at its core, can empower communities, and I’ll always make myself available to give back my time and knowledge wherever it’s needed.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Because I come from a scientific background, I’m often seen as a voice of authority—but I’ve learned that real impact comes from meeting people where they are. Titles and credentials matter less than empathy, active listening and genuine connection.

Some of the stories I report on hit close to home, and that emotional weight isn’t always easy to carry. But those moments ground me. They remind me that climate journalism isn’t just about the science—it’s about context, community and human lives. That’s what keeps me showing up every day. I’m here to help people make sense of what’s happening around them, and to amplify voices that are too often overlooked.

At the end of the day, I just want to be of service—to inform, connect and help communities navigate an uncertain future with clarity and care.