At the recent COP29 climate summit held from November 11 to 22, 2024, in Baku, Azerbaijan, young voices rang with clarity and passion. The event showcased the enthusiasm and determination of youth leaders from around the globe who came together, advocating for climate action and sustainability initiatives. Throughout the conference, young delegates engaged with representatives of the Commonwealth and other prominent organizations, pushing forward their messages concerning the future of the planet.
The Commonwealth Secretariat played an integral role during these two weeks, providing platforms for young people to meet and share their concerns. Young representatives from 56 Commonwealth member countries participated actively, responding to global challenges and discussing potential solutions to pressing environmental issues. With events structured for dialogue, the youth were not merely observers but active participants aiming to influence global discussions on climate change.
Notably, the COP29 included intergenerational dialogues facilitated by the Commonwealth Youth Programme, where youth leaders had the chance to present their ideas on pressing youth-focused issues. This gathering was pivotal for fostering collaboration and facilitating necessary conversations on sustainable growth and employment opportunities for young people.
Among the notable events was a side program held with UNCTAD, where ideas were exchanged about strengthening green economies. Many young entrepreneurs face challenges such as limited access to finance and technology. This session emphasized the importance of creating practical pathways for young people, redefining the green economy as attainable rather than wishful thinking. Patricia Scotland, the Commonwealth Secretary-General, reaffirmed the urgency of transitioning to sustainable practices as she highlighted: “We face the dual challenges of climate change and global inequality.”
Scotland emphasized the Commonwealth's commitment to youth engagement, mentioning how this collaboration has birthed programs like the youth entrepreneurship guide aimed at optimizing opportunities for young entrepreneurs across member nations. The session also shed light on the environmental degradation affecting sectors like agriculture, which pose significant roadblocks to youths aiming to partake meaningfully in the economy.
Simultaneously at COP29, youth leaders shared their firsthand experiences from the negotiation tables of climate discussions. Jervon Sands from The Bahamas, who participated recently in the Commonwealth Youth Climate Negotiations Training Programme, noted the rigorous preparation he underwent during training sessions. He expressed how the preparatory simulations mirrored the actual COP experiences, equipping him to tackle tough discussions with confidence.
Nafesha Richardson from Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, recognized for her leadership role within her country's climate change committee, articulated her deep appreciation for the mentorship offered by the Commonwealth. Reflecting on her experience, she noted, “Seeing you, Madam Secretary, lead with conviction inspired me to believe I had a place at the table.” This highlighted how role models can significantly impact young minds.
Across the pond, students from the Holy Family Catholic Multi Academy Trust (HFCMAT) congregated for their inaugural COP29 conference, emphasizing their voice and commitment to climate action. Eighteen students gathered to spotlight various sustainability issues, echoing Pope Francis’s call for stewardship of creation as emphasized in his encyclical Laudato Si.
The young students articulated their sustainability concerns amid the wider global climate discussions, addressing alarming issues such as plastic pollution and the impact of climate change on our wildlife. Their engagement underlines how younger generations are assuming the responsibility of advocating for a more sustainable, greener future.
Sean Dick, conservation education manager at Chester Zoo, commended the student’s passion for positive change, stating, “It was fantastic to see so many young people speak passionately about climate change.” Emily Reid, the sustainability lead at HFCMAT, also took time to highlight the importance of youth voices and their potential to inspire actionable change. “When young people speak up, they inspire action and change for generations to come,” she emphasized.
Meanwhile, students from the VIBGYOR Group of Schools participated actively at COP29, representing regions from Mumbai to Vadodara. They engaged with global climate leaders and experts to address various challenges facing climate policy and action. By attending informative workshops under the Climate Academy, students expanded their knowledge about sustainability laws and efforts toward implementing the Paris Agreement.
Experts including Philippe Birker, co-founder of Climate Farmers, and Martin Harper, CEO of Birdlife International, provided students with insights on success stories and practical solutions for environmental issues. A VIBGYOR student shared their transformative experience saying: “Attending COP29 was transformative. It broadened my global climate issues and inspired me to act.”
This commitment to global education was underscored during students' visits to ADA School, where they immersed themselves not only in educational discussions but cultural exchanges as well. Kavita Kerawalla, Vice-Chair of VIBGYOR Group of Schools, proudly noted their aim to develop global consciousness among students, stating, “Our students’ participation reflects our dedication to nurturing socially responsible leaders who will drive solutions for a sustainable future.”
This blend of enthusiasm and dedication demonstrated by the youth at COP29 serves as both a reminder and encouragement for long-term global engagement. Their voices resonate not only at this global summit but also back home, fostering discussions around sustainability and environmental stewardship.
With the future of the planet hanging in the balance, the commitment and preparedness seen among these young leaders prove invaluable. They are drawing the roadmap, advocating for transformative policies and actions addressing climate change as they carry the banner of hope forward.
