The Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute (BUEI) is gearing up for the 2025 Youth Climate Summit, happening from November 17 to 22. This exciting event will gather over 150 local students aged 13 to 22, along with climate experts and youth activists. The theme this year is “Global View, Local Impact,” emphasizing how global issues like climate change affect our local communities.
Virtual Sessions
From November 17 to 19, the summit will feature live-streamed virtual sessions on BUEI’s YouTube channel. These sessions will be led by former summit participants, who will share insights on various climate topics. Notable experts include:
- Dr. J. Marshall Shepherd: An authority in Geography and Atmospheric Sciences from the University of Georgia.
- Dr. Jeffrey Steynor: A director at BELCO focusing on energy transition.
- Isabel Rivera-Collazo: A marine archaeology expert from UC San Diego.
- Dr. Kishan Khoday: A representative from the United Nations Development Programme in Jamaica.
- Maynard Okereke (Hip Hop MD): A science communicator known for engaging the community on climate issues.
Voices of Youth Activists
The summit will showcase presentations from influential youth activists. For instance, Lily Yang Liu from Vancouver is making waves with her climate literacy platform on Chinese social media, reaching over 70 million viewers. Other young leaders, like Lesein Mutunkei of Trees for Goals and Sarah Goody of Climate NOW, will share their inspiring work.
Environmental Showcase & Action Planning
The event will also include an on-site Environmental Showcase on November 20. This day will feature discussions with corporate climate panels and local environmental groups. On November 21, participants will engage in action planning across three critical tracks: Climate Justice, Sustainability, and Conservation. This collaborative effort will aim to shape actionable climate solutions for the future.
A Strong Network of Support
The summit receives backing from various partners, including AXA XL and HSBC Bermuda, among others. Such support reflects a growing commitment to climate education and action.
Why This Matters
According to a recent survey by the Pew Research Center, 72% of young people believe that climate change will negatively impact their lives. Events like the Youth Climate Summit empower this demographic to take proactive steps. By connecting with experts and peers, young people can develop the skills and knowledge needed to tackle these challenges.
In addition to education, social media plays a crucial role in spreading awareness. Trends reflect a growing urgency among younger generations, who are not just consumers of information but also active changemakers.
For further details on the summit, check out YCSBDA. This initiative isn’t just about discussion; it’s about shaping tomorrow’s leaders in climate action.
