The City of Casey is on the lookout for passionate young individuals aged 15 to 25 to join the 2026 Youth Climate Action Committee (YCAC). This committee offers a platform for young people to engage in meaningful conversations and initiatives focused on environmental protection and climate change.
Misha Hassan, a VCE student from Casey, joined the committee in 2025 to make a positive impact on the environment. She discovered YCAC at a youth summit and quickly absorbed its vision, aligning it with her own environmental values. Over the past year, Misha has transitioned from being a spokesperson to actively meeting with local leaders, sharing her insights on sustainability.
“It’s been an incredibly rewarding experience,” Misha shared. “I’ve learned so much and connected with others who care deeply about the environment.” These connections have strengthened her commitment to conservation, inspiring her to keep making a difference in Casey.
The committee meets twice a month to brainstorm initiatives and plan events. Currently, they’re organizing a documentary screening aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of non-recyclable goods on wildlife and ecosystems. Additionally, they hold informational sessions to inspire various groups to adopt eco-friendly habits.
Reflecting on a recent event, Misha mentioned, “We encouraged local Grade 6 students to make more sustainable lunchbox choices. The positive feedback from that initiative was uplifting and reinforced the value of our efforts.”
YCAC isn’t just about the youth; it’s also making waves in local governance. Misha noted that they recently met with Casey’s council members to advocate for sustainability initiatives. They highlighted the urgency of climate action and encouraged the council to support more eco-friendly projects.
“At the June ‘Innovate Casey’ event, we saw the council’s commitment to explore innovative ideas,” she explained. “This momentum benefits both the environment and the community, fostering a strong sense of unity.”
After a year in the committee, Misha’s knowledge has grown significantly—from understanding recycling practices to grasping global environmental science concepts, like the impact of melting glaciers. “These insights motivate me to learn more and contribute positively to our community,” she said.
As Misha looks forward to completing her first year with YCAC, she emphasizes the lasting values she’ll carry with her. “Every small action counts, and that’s one of the most important lessons I’ve learned. I’m grateful for the chance to be part of this inspiring group, and I’m excited about contributing to a more sustainable future for Casey, one project at a time.”
To learn more about joining the committee, check out the official site: casey.vic.gov.au/youth-climate-committee.
