Mon 29th Jan
Format: Ice Break Activities
As we inaugurate the Youth conference activities, we take a few minutes to welcome all YEEC attendees in the 4 languages of the Congress (Arabic, English, Spanish and French) and share an overview about the youth involvement at the congress, providing them the information needed on how they can participate, sharing their ideas and expertise.
Project Manager - Sustainable Campus Initiative, Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi
Consultant, Environmental Information, Science & Outreach Management, Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi
Senior Manager, International Programs and EE 30 Under 30, North American Association for Environmental Education
Junior Executive Manager, Mohammed VI Foundation for Environmental Protection
Committee Member, Youth Environmental Education Conference
Committee Member, Youth Environmental Education Conference
Data Management and Results Monitoring & Reporting Officer, United Nations Resident Coordinator Office, UAE
Mon 29th Jan
*An interactive game that will be in the activity area until the 31st of January
Format: Game
Brief of the session: A youth-focused session aims to create an interactive space for myth-busting and sustainable knowledge generation among participants to engage youth actively, encouraging critical thinking, collaboration, and the exploration of sustainable practices and concepts.
President, SDG Youth Council
Mon 29th Jan
Format: Fishbbowl
A discussion that encourages active participation and open dialogue among participants with regards to their hopes and expectations about YEEC & WEEC. A set of questions is given allowing all audience to participate in teams of 4 people in a fishbowl setting.
Founder, Green Girls Platform
Coordinator of the EMPACT Acceleration Program, Enactus Morocco
tudent & Environment and Climate Policy Advocate, University Of The West Indies
, Bahrain Science Center for Sustainable Development Goals
UN Habitat Youth Advisor, Climate Justice Activist and First-year Environmental Studies Student, York University
Energy Engineer and Youth Leader in Sustainability,
Mon 29th Jan
Format: Fishbowl + Presentation
Brief of the session: Since COP28 last year was hosted at the United Arab Emirates, Malak Abdulla is going to share her experience, outcomes and knowledge obtained as a climate youth delegate. And, ensure knowledge is acquired from COP28 by youth which can support EE future roadmap
, Global Shapers Abu Dhabi Hub
Mon 29th Jan
Format: Competition
Brief of the session: Live competition of the 7th level of Envirospellathon on climate change, in which 6 students of top Sustainable Schools Initiative participate in a challenging and competition. To raise students’ awareness about climate change, Promote the 7th level of Envirospellathon and Provide a platform for students to engage in interactive learning through the competition.
Programme Coordinator for Environmental Outreach, Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi
Mon 29th Jan
Format: Ted Talk
Brief of the session: Discussing how an intergenerational approach to fighting for nature can benefit youth, adults, and older people as different perspectives and knowledge is passed on. Using an example from New Zealand with the Royal Forest and Bird Protection Society of New Zealand, how young people are working with older people to find solutions for the biodiversity crisis. This session Inspires young attendees to take action for nature, through wanting to volunteer with organisations that have different groups of people (not just youth environment groups).
Conservation and Climate Advocate & Activist,
Mon 29th Jan
Format: Panel Discussion (30min) and Interactive activity (30min)
Brief of the session: 30-min panel discussion on what climate anxiety is and how we can address it within the environmental education programs. Addressing climate anxiety and understanding the psychology behind it.
Psychologist, Researcher, and Past Professor,
Community Impact Manager, The Climate Tribe
Mon 29th Jan
An open mic for youth to share their inspiring stories and achievements
Format: Ted talk
Conservation and Climate Advocate & Activist,
Mon 29th Jan
Format: Presentation
Tue 30th Jan
Format: Panel Discussion (1hr)
Brief of the session: Open conversation on early education on sustainability with a group of youngsters sharing their involvement in environmental and sustainable initiatives and how they were raised to care about the environment.
Head of the Department, WWF-India
Founder, Rainbow Chimney Bookstore & Publishing House
,
,
Founder and CEO, Earth Warriors
Tue 30th Jan
Format: Panel Discussion
Brief of the session: In which forms of education can affect the way we approach (or don’t) climate action.
Junior Executive Manager, Mohammed VI Foundation for Environmental Protection
Ambassador, African Youth Climate Hub
Social Science Researcher and a Co-Founder, ClimatEducate Project
Fintech Marketing Specialist, Lupiya, Zambia
Conservationist and UNEP Representative for SDG 6 (Water and Sanitation), India
Environmental Leadership and Awards Programme Manager, Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful
Founder, Global Shapers Las Palmas
tudent & Environment and Climate Policy Advocate, University Of The West Indies
Tue 30th Jan
Format: Workshop (1hr)
Brief of the session: Environment and Sustainability Education has the potential to set in motion the power of creative thinking in our young people and in so doing we support and grow relevant skills which will help young people to cope with an ever-changing world, support youth in exploring activities that set-in motion the power of critical thinking and innovation, engage youth with learning tools that develop essential competences in environment and sustainability education. Help them adapt ideas generated in the workshop to enhance quality and relevance their own learning and taking action.
Program Specialist Researcher - Sustainability Education/Global Health, Uppsala University, Sweden
Tue 30th Jan
Format: Interactive Presentation
Brief of the session: A thought-provoking and informative online climate series that delves into the urgent issue of climate change. This series aims to deepen our understanding of the causes and consequences of climate change while highlighting the importance of individual and collective action. To learn amazing facts about our local marine wildlife corals, turtles, dolphins, seagrass, dugongs, mangroves, flamingos, whale sharks, sea snakes and more! Understand how you can support the global movement to protect at least 30% of the world’s lands, waters, and ocean by 2030, get the opportunity to learn about impactful fieldwork aimed at safeguarding and protecting areas to help ensure a healthy ocean and climate, understand why and how we can protect our Oceans.
Conservation Outreach and Citizen Science, Emirates Nature WWF
Student, American University of Sharjah
Tue 30th Jan
Format: Panel Discussion (1h)
Brief of the session: Group of youth talk about indigenous people’s role in the environmental education field. Discuss how Indigenous peoples’ contributions are essential in designing and implementing solutions to sustainability and ecosystem restoration issues, how EE communities learn from cultures and traditional practices and how values, indigenous knowledge, and culture can help connect people and create a better tomorrow, the connection of local wisdom and cultural practices with international agendas in the framework of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Integration of indigenous knowledge systems into environmental education.
COP 28 UAE Youth Climate Delegate,
Climate Resilience Education on Nature Based Solution Expert,
Founder, Green Girls Platform
Fintech Marketing Specialist, Lupiya, Zambia
, YNCCC (Youth Negotiations on Climate Change Conventions)
Young Climate Advocate,
Tue 30th Jan
Format: Workshop
Brief of the session: Group of Content creators share their knowledge to youth about content creation and how if helps deliver a meaningful message to the community and how social media can be a tool to share environmental education. This session highlights the role of content creation in delivering meaningful, direct, and concise information to the community, particularly in the context of environmental education. It helps explore how social media can be utilized as a powerful tool to share environmental education and effectively engage with the community.
Eco Content Creator & Founder, Enta Green Journeys
Environmental Activist and Social Media Content Creator,
Environmental Content creator and Green Youth Majlis Member,
Lead Environmentalist,
,
Tue 30th Jan
Format: Workshop (1h)
Brief of the session: A workshop on the key concepts and skills in planning and delivering effective presentations and public speeches. Each participant will give a short speech. Videoed with their own phones for review and refinement at a later date.
Director, Speaking 4 the Planet
Tue 30th Jan
Format: Global Café
Brief of the session: https://theworldcafe.com/key-concepts-resources/world-cafe-method/
Objectives: the sessions aim to bring together youth to discuss on the given topic. Also to raise awareness, foster understanding, and inspire action towards addressing environmental challenges and promoting sustainability.
o Table 1: Nature & biodiversity: Reham Zia
o Table 2: Air Quality: Oriol Teixido Escote
o Table 3: Climate Change: Mogesh Sabapathy
o Table 4: Environmental Education: Arpan Singh
Student Services Coordinator,
Environmental Activist and Social Media Content Creator,
Youth Climate Advocate and Co-founder, ClimX
Youth Officer, United Nations Environment Programme, UNEP India Office
Tue 30th Jan
Format: Workshop (45min)
Brief of the session: In small groups we will work on how to create an environmental education project from scratch with a creative design mindset. Always focusing on the issues and collaborative, collective and inclusive thinking.
Secretary General, The Club of Rome, Spain
Youth Coordinator, Ashoka South Cone
Tue 30th Jan
Format: Presentation
Secretary General, The Club of Rome, Spain
Tue 30th Jan
Wed 31st Jan
Format: Masterclass (1hr)
Brief of the session: Environment and Sustainability Education has the potential to set in motion the power of creative thinking in our young people and in so doing we support and grow relevant skills which will help young people to cope with an ever-changing world. Aims in exploring activities that set-in motion the power of critical thinking and innovation, engage with learning tools that develop essential competences in environment and sustainability education, allow youth to adapt ideas generated in the workshop to enhance quality and relevance their own learning and taking action.
Program Specialist Researcher - Sustainability Education/Global Health, Uppsala University, Sweden
Wed 31st Jan
Format: Workshop
Brief of the session: Sorting Activity (Teams competition). Participants will be introduced to recycling practices in the UAE as an introduction to good waste and other waste streams. Participants will compete in sorting waste into recyclable and non-recyclable items while understanding the basics of recycling & sorting correctly in the UAE. Each player will pick one waste item from 25 items from the box, examine and select the right bin it goes into. They need to then find the ball that represents the waste item and try to score. If it ends up in the right bin, team wins a point.
Consultant, Environmental Information, Science & Outreach Management, Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi
, Eedama
, Eedama
Wed 31st Jan
Format: Interactive Panel Discussion
Brief of the session: Group of Elite youth who speak about their experience on Environmental education and how it helped shape their business idea. To showcase and highlight the connection between environmental education and entrepreneurship, inspiring other youth and demonstrating the potential for sustainable business innovation. Youth attendees will have the chance to engage with the elite speakers, asking questions, seeking advice, and learning from their experiences.
Coordinator of the EMPACT Acceleration Program, Enactus Morocco
Youth Coordinator, Ashoka South Cone
Climate Resilience Education on Nature Based Solution Expert,
Owner, Ygnd El Ras
Youth Climate Advocate and Co-founder, ClimX
Wed 31st Jan
Format: Global Café
Brief of the session: Environmental Education achievements from different countries and continents that aims to share knowledge. Discuss various achievements performed internationally and compare ideas, strategies, and perspectives. It is an eye-opening experience to exchange ideas from international guests and learn new ways to implement them to improve local projects and targets.
-Table 1: Shamma Alkhoori, Aysha Alsherroqi,
-Table 2: Jenna Potter, Carlos Shanka
-Table 3: Sara Syed, Manal Bidal
-Table 4: Nina Hamilton, Sara Constantino
-Table 5: Carl Alongsagay & Sneha Shahi
-Table 6: Raquel Armendariz & Alexa Rose Pettinari
Youth and community Analyst, Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi
, Bahrain Science Center for Sustainable Development Goals
Environmental Leadership and Awards Programme Manager, Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful
Founder, Global Shapers Las Palmas
Ambassador, African Youth Climate Hub
Senior Manager, International Programs and EE 30 Under 30, North American Association for Environmental Education
Environmental Activist and Social Media Content Creator,
Social Science Researcher and a Co-Founder, ClimatEducate Project
Conservationist and UNEP Representative for SDG 6 (Water and Sanitation), India
,
,
UN Habitat Youth Advisor, Climate Justice Activist and First-year Environmental Studies Student, York University
Wed 31st Jan
Format: Workshop (1hr)
Brief of the session: The Climate Fresk is a scientific and collaborative workshop, designed to educate about climate change. The objective is to connect 42 cards, highlighting the causes of consequences between them. The reasoning follows the scientific reports of the IPCC.
Student, Université Paris Saclay
,
Wed 31st Jan
Format: Majlis
Brief of the session: In this session, we explore indigenous knowledge and cultural practices, drawing on insights from experts in diverse fields, including nutrition, heritage, and marine biology. A physical majlis conducted to explore sustainable lessons taugh through the UAE heritage and culture to raise awareness of local wisdoms that are being passed from generation to generation and learning how to tweak them to align with today’s needs for a sustainable lifestyle.
President, SDG Youth Council
Wed 31st Jan
Format: Workshop
Consultant, Environmental Information, Science & Outreach Management, Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi
,
, Eedama
Wed 31st Jan
Format: Workshop (1h)
Brief of the session: A workshop on the key concepts and skills in planning and delivering effective presentations and public speeches. Each participant will give a short speech. Videoed with their own phones for review and refinement at a later date.
Director, Speaking 4 the Planet
Wed 31st Jan
Format: Presentation
Brief of the session: The Power of Advocacy and Youth
Youth Arab Centre Workshop
Objectives: E-Green Platform is presented to everyone to find opportunities to develop content and add it in their platform.
Outcomes: a more conspicuous vision of a future EE with enhanced strategies to teach our youth new ways to mitigate global environmental issues.
Youth and community Analyst, Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi
Wed 31st Jan
Format: Workshop
,
,
Wed 31st Jan
Format: Workshop
,
Wed 31st Jan
Thu 1st Feb
Format: Open Mic
Eco Content Creator & Founder, Enta Green Journeys
Thu 1st Feb
Format: Majlis (1hr)
In collaboration with the students of Al Karamah Training Institute
Brief of the session: A physical Majlis to encourage a discussion and further insight into express their needs with respect to their inclusion in EE programs.
Objectives: Open discussion in a Majlis format for youth with disabilities to express their needs in regards their inclusion in environmental education programs. Taking the workshop Part 1 as a reference we will share best practices when it comes to deliver a message to people with additional abilities. This session intends to gather valuable insights and input from youth with disabilities about their specific needs and aspirations related to environmental education programs. By sharing best practices during the workshop, participants will gain knowledge and strategies on effectively delivering messages and information to individuals with diverse abilities.
,
Consultant, Environmental Information, Science & Outreach Management, Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi
Thu 1st Feb
Format: Panel Discussion
Analyst, Environmental Agency - Abu Dhabi
,
Youngest Unicef Youth Advocate for COP 28,
,
Thu 1st Feb
Format: Group activities
Brief of the session: A discussion with all youth to understand what is required by them currently and what will be required by the future generation, accumulate discussion points and incorporate it in future Environmental Education plans. To recap of all youth outcomes to deliver a closing remark
Project Manager - Sustainable Campus Initiative, Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi
Consultant, Environmental Information, Science & Outreach Management, Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi
Senior Manager, International Programs and EE 30 Under 30, North American Association for Environmental Education
Junior Executive Manager, Mohammed VI Foundation for Environmental Protection
Committee Member, Youth Environmental Education Conference
Committee Member, Youth Environmental Education Conference
Data Management and Results Monitoring & Reporting Officer, United Nations Resident Coordinator Office, UAE
Thu 1st Feb
Thu 1st Feb
Format: Workshop (1h)
Brief of the session: A workshop on the key concepts and skills in planning and delivering effective presentations and public speeches. Each participant will give a short speech. Videoed with their own phones for review and refinement at a later date.
Director, Speaking 4 the Planet
Director, Speaking 4 the Planet
Phil’s forty years in education span the breadth of formal and non-formal education: schools, TAFE, community colleges, universities and a wide range of community settings. He has held leadership roles in schools, government agencies, a national professional association and local and international NGOs. He has worked overseas in education, training and evaluation. His experience includes advocacy and community campaigning at local, state and federal levels; education in a humanitarian environment (Nauru); sustainability leadership courses for young people; professional development for teachers and trainers; and conference facilitation. Phil currently teaches in two teacher-training programs at Western Sydney University, and he runs his own program for schools, Speaking 4 the Planet, which is an Arts-based approach to sustainability education.
Format: Presentation
Brief of the session: The Power of Advocacy and Youth
Youth Arab Centre Workshop
Objectives: E-Green Platform is presented to everyone to find opportunities to develop content and add it in their platform.
Outcomes: a more conspicuous vision of a future EE with enhanced strategies to teach our youth new ways to mitigate global environmental issues.
Youth and community Analyst, Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi
Youth and community Analyst, Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi
Format: Competition
Brief of the session: Live competition of the 7th level of Envirospellathon on climate change, in which 6 students of top Sustainable Schools Initiative participate in a challenging and competition. To raise students’ awareness about climate change, Promote the 7th level of Envirospellathon and Provide a platform for students to engage in interactive learning through the competition.
Programme Coordinator for Environmental Outreach, Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi
Programme Coordinator for Environmental Outreach, Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi
Arwa Diab is the Programme Coordinator for Environmental Outreach at the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi, dedicated to fostering a sustainable future. She is the project leader of "Murshed - Youth Rangers", and currently managing "EnviroSpellathon," and "Sustainable Schools Initiative". Arwa graduated from Zayed University, majoring in Environmental Sciences and Sustainability with a sponsorship from HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, and was recognized as the top achiever in Abu Dhabi upon graduating from highschool. At the Environment Agency, she manages and coordinates environmental outreach programs, driven by her passion for causing a positive change and expanding her knowledge. Arwa also enjoys graphic design, channelling her creativity into visually communicating important messages, and is an avid reader, constantly seeking inspiration from the written word. Her enthusiasm for public speaking enables her to share her insights and inspire action for a greener world.
Format: Group activities
Brief of the session: A discussion with all youth to understand what is required by them currently and what will be required by the future generation, accumulate discussion points and incorporate it in future Environmental Education plans. To recap of all youth outcomes to deliver a closing remark
Project Manager - Sustainable Campus Initiative, Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi
Consultant, Environmental Information, Science & Outreach Management, Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi
Senior Manager, International Programs and EE 30 Under 30, North American Association for Environmental Education
Junior Executive Manager, Mohammed VI Foundation for Environmental Protection
Committee Member, Youth Environmental Education Conference
Committee Member, Youth Environmental Education Conference
Data Management and Results Monitoring & Reporting Officer, United Nations Resident Coordinator Office, UAE
Project Manager - Sustainable Campus Initiative, Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi
She first joined the EAD in 2018 as an Outreach Programme Co-ordinator, before promotion to Project Co-ordinator a year later. Since June 2020 she was promoted to Project Manager – Sustainable Campus initiative. With a strong passion for the environment and empowering the younger generation in working towards environmental sustainability, Aisha possesses excellent knowledge of environmental sustainability and is well versed in managing projects and planning programmes and events. As well as strong writing and communication skills, Aisha is a highly capable problem solver and adopts creative learning approaches to help EAD achieve maximum results.
Prior to joining the Agency, Aisha interned as an Environmental Scientist at URS Corporation, an AECOM Company before being appointed as Business Coordinator at Areed IT Services.
Aisha studied at Abu Dhabi University, completing a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, certification in Circular Economy and Sustainability strategies from Cambridge judge business school. Key projects that Aisha Managed is Baadr App.
Consultant, Environmental Information, Science & Outreach Management, Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi
Alba is a passionate social worker, entrepreneur, and inclusion advocate from Barcelona. During her more than 10 years of experience, Alba has promoted the inclusion of people of determination and people facing mental health challenges in Europe and in the UAE. Also, she provided guidance and training in mental and emotional wellbeing everywhere she put her foot on.
She believes that raising awareness and understanding about the importance of environment education will impact on communities’ wellbeing. EE is key for a healthy, respectful, tolerant, and inclusive community.
Senior Manager, International Programs and EE 30 Under 30, North American Association for Environmental Education
Nina Hamilton leads NAAEE's youth leadership initiatives and supports the Global Environmental Education Partnership's efforts to build capacity for EE across the globe. Before NAAEE, Nina worked on community-based conservation, land rights, gender equity, participatory research, and global network coordination in the U.S., Madagascar, and Gabon. Nina is particularly passionate about working across cultures to connect people with the resources they need to maximize their impact, while combining her interests in the environment, social equity, and youth engagement. Nina has a Master's in Environmental Management from Duke University and a Bachelor's in Biology from Kenyon College.
Junior Executive Manager, Mohammed VI Foundation for Environmental Protection
Ismail is a Junior Executive Manager at the Mohammed VI Foundation for Environmental Protection. He oversees the administrative support, production of analytical documents, logistical and financial support for the Mohammed VI Prize for the Climate and Sustainable Development. He is also coordinator of the African Youth Climate Hub in charge of its conceptualization and implementation. Ismail is a former analyst at the Moroccan Center for Strategic Studies and the African Federation for Strategic Studies. Ismail holds an M.A. in International Studies and Diplomacy with a concentration in Peace and Conflict Studies from Al Akhawayn University.
The Mohammed VI Foundation for Environmental Protection’s main mission is to educate and raise awareness on the environment and how to protect it. Aligning with HRH Princess Lalla Hasnaa belief that forging environmental awareness of tomorrow’s generation is the most powerful lever for change, the foundation’s main target are young individuals. The Foundation very early on set up programs aimed at the youngest, today, it manages seven Education for Sustainable Development programs: Eco-Schools, Young Reporters for the Environment, Global Schools, African Green Universities and Youth Education Network, African Youth Climate Hub, Digital Inclusion, Educational Tools.
Committee Member, Youth Environmental Education Conference
My name is Abdulla AlHaddadi, and I am a student at Al Ittihad National Private School. I have had an interest in the environmental field for a long time. My enjoyment in this field mainly stems from my participation in my school's Eco Club. I fell in love with the environment and ways to prevent it ever since. I've always chosen to participate in environment-related campaigns and activities. Most recently, I have joined my school's campaign to reduce the number of plastic bottles going to waste as a representative. I'll be taking part in raising awareness and planning activities to further interest students to participate in the campaign. Moreover, I'm also a student ambassador for the International Fund for Houbara Conservation. I represented them at ADIHEX and had the opportunity to share my knowledge of the bird and its importance in our culture and in nature. I hope that my participation in YEES will be a great learning experience for me. I wish to further expand my knowledge and successfully represent my country at the international congress as an Emirati youth. I aspire to turn useless into useful, and harmful into helpful. Whether it's by my participation in events to teach or campaigns to help preserve parts of nature, I wish to create a long-lasting impact on the environment and those around me.
Committee Member, Youth Environmental Education Conference
My name is Fatema Al Remeithi, a 10th grader at Al Ittihad National Private School in Abu Dhabi. As an active member of the school's Environmental Club, I have gained a deeper understanding of environmental issues and the importance of taking appropriate action. I am passionate about promoting sustainable living practices and raising awareness of environmental issues. In July 2022, I participated in The National Ambassadors Program, where I joined 18 other girls for a two-week visit to Oxford City in the United Kingdom. We were assigned a challenging project to create a product that addressed three of the Sustainable Development Goals, and our group decided to focus on saving life underwater while incorporating renewable energy and recycled materials. Despite the tight deadline, we delivered an impressive project that showcased our creativity and critical thinking skills. Another achievement of mine is participating in the Murshed Youth Rangers Programme, where I spent two weeks in Al Wathba Reserve in Abu Dhabi, learning about the ecosystem and participating in activities such as bird watching, habitat mapping, and animal tracking. I was able to develop valuable skills, such as teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving, and earned the title of youth ranger. These experiences have provided me with an opportunity to grow, learn, and develop as an individual, while also making a positive impact on the environment. I believe that every individual has the power to create change, and I am committed to continuing to promote sustainable living practices and to inspire others to do the same. By working together, we can build a brighter and more sustainable future for ourselves and future generations.
Data Management and Results Monitoring & Reporting Officer, United Nations Resident Coordinator Office, UAE
Saif Awadh is the Data Management and Results Monitoring & Reporting Officer at the United Nations Resident Coordinator Office in the UAE and covers the Youth and Climate Change portfolio for the office. He is one of the few Emirati international civil servants in the United Nations system and began his career as a Junior Professional Officer with the UN Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) in New York.
Format: Masterclass (1hr)
Brief of the session: Environment and Sustainability Education has the potential to set in motion the power of creative thinking in our young people and in so doing we support and grow relevant skills which will help young people to cope with an ever-changing world. Aims in exploring activities that set-in motion the power of critical thinking and innovation, engage with learning tools that develop essential competences in environment and sustainability education, allow youth to adapt ideas generated in the workshop to enhance quality and relevance their own learning and taking action.
Program Specialist Researcher - Sustainability Education/Global Health, Uppsala University, Sweden
Program Specialist Researcher - Sustainability Education/Global Health, Uppsala University, Sweden
Dr Shepherd Urenje is a Programme Specialist in Sustainability Education with the Centre for Research and Education on Learning for Sustainable Development and Global Health (SWEDESD) at Uppsala University, Sweden. Dr Shepherd Urenje has been supporting universities and government ministries in integrating sustainable development strategies into teacher education and university curriculum in order to implement quality and relevance in Higher Education in line with the global sustainable development goal 4. His current work supports teaching and learning within and among countries in Scandinavia, Africa and Asia.
Format: Ted Talk
Brief of the session: Discussing how an intergenerational approach to fighting for nature can benefit youth, adults, and older people as different perspectives and knowledge is passed on. Using an example from New Zealand with the Royal Forest and Bird Protection Society of New Zealand, how young people are working with older people to find solutions for the biodiversity crisis. This session Inspires young attendees to take action for nature, through wanting to volunteer with organisations that have different groups of people (not just youth environment groups).
Conservation and Climate Advocate & Activist,
Conservation and Climate Advocate & Activist,
Nate Wilbourne is a 15-year-old from a small rural town in New Zealand, who is a conservation and climate justice advocate. Since the age of 8, Nate has been fervently fighting for nature, planting his first tree and establishing a lifelong connection to environmental causes. Nate is the Communications Manager at Forest & Bird Youth, leading New Zealand's largest group of conservation advocates. With a focus on protecting nature, he collaborates with policy experts, engages with government ministers, and uses social media as a powerful tool to advocate for change.
His leadership has propelled the group to the forefront of environmental initiatives, fostering a new generation of passionate advocates. Nate's mission is clear – to drive positive change in the environmental landscape. Whether through organizational leadership, hands-on conservation efforts, or youth-driven initiatives, he strives to inspire action, amplify voices, and pave the way for a more sustainable and just world. With his remarkable achievements and unwavering commitment. Nate Wilbourne exemplifies the potential of young leaders in shaping a brighter future.
Format: Panel Discussion (1hr)
Brief of the session: Open conversation on early education on sustainability with a group of youngsters sharing their involvement in environmental and sustainable initiatives and how they were raised to care about the environment.
Head of the Department, WWF-India
Founder, Rainbow Chimney Bookstore & Publishing House
,
,
Founder and CEO, Earth Warriors
Head of the Department, WWF-India
Neha Raghav is a seasoned environment educator, currently leading the Environment Education work for WWF-India as the Head of the Department, Education. With a degree in environmental sciences and specialization in education from reputed Indian universities, her work at WWF-India has been an amalgamation of passion and experience.
During her eight year tenure at WWF-India, she has conceptualised, developed and executed a multitude of environment education initiatives for children, youth, citizens and educators. She also owns expertise in measuring the impact of education programmes towards strategising and achieving the goals of EE.
Founder, Rainbow Chimney Bookstore & Publishing House
Founder of Rainbow Chimney Bookstore & Publishing House, the youngest Emirati entrepreneur and publisher, passionate advocate for children with additional needs. Guinness World Record holder as the youngest person to publish a bilingual book series. Awarded as Youngest Entrepreneur of the Year and Emirati Women Achiever. Public speaker and founder of Eco Club AE.
AlDhabi is passionate about spreading awareness and inspiring action among young minds, and she is eager to share my insights on the efforts and challenges in Early Childhood Education (EE) within the theme you have provided.
Her presentation, titled Efforts and Challenges in EE for Early Childhood Education, will delve into the critical role that educators, curricula, technologies, and tools play in shaping the environmental consciousness of young children.
She will explore the importance of environmental awareness in early childhood and highlight the role of teachers and educators in fostering this awareness. 
Furthermore, She will address the importance of creating inclusive learning environments that engage children with special needs and learning disabilities, ensuring that no child is left behind in their educational journey.
,
A writer and media personality interested in the field of the environment
AlDhabi is passionate about spreading awareness and inspiring action among young minds, and she is eager to share my insights on the efforts and challenges in Early Childhood Education (EE) within the theme you have provided.
Her presentation, titled ""Efforts and Challenges in EE for Early Childhood Education,"" will delve into the critical role that educators, curricula, technologies, and tools play in shaping the environmental consciousness of young children.
She will explore the importance of environmental awareness in early childhood and highlight the role of teachers and educators in fostering this awareness. 
Furthermore, She will address the importance of creating inclusive learning environments that engage children with special needs and learning disabilities, ensuring that no child is left behind in their educational journey.
Please Note that AlDhabi is having a very busy schedule so we need to know exactly which date she is going to perform. We shall submit the form  as soon as confirming date/time so we don't overlap any events during Jan & Feb.
We firmly believe that by empowering young people and promoting environmental education, we can collectively address and overcome the environmental challenges facing our global community. "
,
Founder and CEO, Earth Warriors
Format: Panel Discussion
Brief of the session: In which forms of education can affect the way we approach (or don’t) climate action.
Junior Executive Manager, Mohammed VI Foundation for Environmental Protection
Ambassador, African Youth Climate Hub
Social Science Researcher and a Co-Founder, ClimatEducate Project
Fintech Marketing Specialist, Lupiya, Zambia
Conservationist and UNEP Representative for SDG 6 (Water and Sanitation), India
Environmental Leadership and Awards Programme Manager, Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful
Founder, Global Shapers Las Palmas
tudent & Environment and Climate Policy Advocate, University Of The West Indies
Junior Executive Manager, Mohammed VI Foundation for Environmental Protection
Ismail is a Junior Executive Manager at the Mohammed VI Foundation for Environmental Protection. He oversees the administrative support, production of analytical documents, logistical and financial support for the Mohammed VI Prize for the Climate and Sustainable Development. He is also coordinator of the African Youth Climate Hub in charge of its conceptualization and implementation. Ismail is a former analyst at the Moroccan Center for Strategic Studies and the African Federation for Strategic Studies. Ismail holds an M.A. in International Studies and Diplomacy with a concentration in Peace and Conflict Studies from Al Akhawayn University.
The Mohammed VI Foundation for Environmental Protection’s main mission is to educate and raise awareness on the environment and how to protect it. Aligning with HRH Princess Lalla Hasnaa belief that forging environmental awareness of tomorrow’s generation is the most powerful lever for change, the foundation’s main target are young individuals. The Foundation very early on set up programs aimed at the youngest, today, it manages seven Education for Sustainable Development programs: Eco-Schools, Young Reporters for the Environment, Global Schools, African Green Universities and Youth Education Network, African Youth Climate Hub, Digital Inclusion, Educational Tools.
Ambassador, African Youth Climate Hub
Manal is a Climate Activist from Morocco, a vibrant Young African voice committed to building a more sustainable and just future. Her journey is a testament to the power of passion and purpose, as she has actively engaged in a multitude of roles and initiatives, from being the Communication Lead for the UNCCD Youth Caucus to advocating for climate justice as an Ambassador for the African Youth Climate Hub.
With each step, Manal has been a tireless advocate for the environment, using her voice to champion causes ranging from desertification and loss and damage to climate adaptation. She believes in the potential of the youth to effect profound change, a belief reflected in her extensive involvement with YOUNGO, the UNFCCC Official Youth Constituency, and her coordination of inclusivity efforts at COY16. A strategic advisor for the Global Adaptation Forum, a sustainability consultant for IKEA, and a dedicated participant in a number of international gatherings (COP27, Un Youth Climate Summit, UN Ocean Conference, etc.), Manal exemplifies the intersection of passion, expertise, and action in terms of climate activism. In addition to her activism, she is currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Global Governance and Political Science at Duke University.
Through her diverse roles and boundless enthusiasm, she envisions a world where climate justice prevails, and the youth are not just heard but
actively shaping the narrative of our shared future.
Social Science Researcher and a Co-Founder, ClimatEducate Project
John Carl Tamboong Alonsagay is a social science researcher and a co-founder of the ClimatEducate Project, a climate education initiative of the Alpha Team Organization-ATO, Inc. – a Philippines-based youth non-profit organization. He is also a Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) alum and a fellow of the EE 30 Under 30 Class of 2020 by the North American Association for Environmental Education (NAAEE). He is an avid hiker and is passionate about climate change issues, blue carbon ecosystems, and development issues in the Global South.
Fintech Marketing Specialist, Lupiya, Zambia
Florence Jedidiah Mulenga is a dynamic individual with a multifaceted passion for Marketing, Environmental Sustainability, STEM Innovation, Health Care, and Youth Inclusion. Her diverse experiences and accomplishments reflect a commitment to driving positive change across various sectors.
One of Florence's notable achievements is her participation as a speaker at The United Nations Climate Change Conference in Dubai, where she shared insights on how STEM innovations can address the Triple Planetary Crisis: Climate Change, Pollution, and Biodiversity Loss (December 2023). This prestigious invitation by Emirates Nature-WWF underscores her expertise in environmental sustainability and STEM solutions.
Her impactful stint at the World Wide Fund For Nature (WWF), the world's largest conservation NGO, as the Conservation Administrative Support showcased her dedication to conservation efforts. In this role, she assisted the Chief Conservation Officer and played a key role in implementing the Youth Engagement Strategy, aiming to empower one million youths in conservation in Zambia by 2026 (February - December 2023).
As the Project Manager for The Zambian National STEM Foundation, Florence collaborated with influential organizations such as the United Nations Development Programme, First National Bank, and WWF. Her initiatives included designing the inaugural Girls in STEM against GBV Summit in Zambia and co-managing the 2nd All Africa STEM Awareness Conference in Botswana (June 2021 - November 2022).
Her impact on the international stage is evident in her invitation to speak at the Women in Engineering Conference in Johannesburg (South Africa) by ITC, highlighting her role in promoting STEM awareness among women and girls in Africa (November 2022).
In her volunteer capacity as Communications Assistant at When Females Lead, Florence initiated the 'Corporate Girls' Docu-Series, featuring success stories of women who have benefited from WFL scholarships. This project demonstrated her commitment to empowering young girls and promoting positive role models (June 2022 - January 2023).
Florence's academic prowess is evident in her Bachelor's degree in Pharmacy from The University of Zambia, where she conceptualized an innovative anti-asthma body spray concept. Her seven awards, including recognition from the government of the Republic of Zambia, attest to her excellence and contributions to pharmaceutical care (2017 - 2022).
Her skill set spans Corporate Marketing & Branding, Project Management, Event Management, and Pharmaceutical Care. Florence channels her passion for STEM Innovation, Environmental Sustainability, Youth Inclusion, and Health Care into her coaching business, where she mentors individuals on Personal Branding, Public Speaking, and Marketing Strategies.
Complementing her impactful work, Florence runs a YouTube channel, providing a platform to share her insights, experiences, and expertise. In essence, Florence Jedidiah Mulenga is a catalyst for positive change, leveraging her diverse skill set and passion to make a lasting impact in the realms of marketing, sustainability, STEM, and youth empowerment.
Conservationist and UNEP Representative for SDG 6 (Water and Sanitation), India
Sneha Shahi is a conservationist and the UNEP Representative for SDG 6 (Water and Sanitation) from India, she has worked with an incredible team by her side to restore streams inhabited by crocodiles in Gujarat. She is currently pursuing her Doctoral Studies at ATREE under Dr. Shrinivas Badiger.
Her past work revolves around the idea of balancing science and action. Her work using STEM and Environment Education resulted in restoring Mugger crocodile habitats and rivers in the city in India. Her current PhD work focuses on co-evolution of rivers and societies, the work aims to unravel the complexity of relations between water, society, and the riverine ecosystem. Her work on restoration and community mobilisation through the mode of documentaries and short films has been highlighted on National Geographic and Smithsonian Museum of Natural History.
Sneha's work has also been recognized with national and international awards such as Youth for Earth Award by Mobius Foundation and Young Reporters for Environment by Centre for Environment and Education (CEE) and the UNEP Plastic Tide Turners Champion.
Environmental Leadership and Awards Programme Manager, Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful
Jenna is the Environmental Leadership and Awards Programme Manager for the 30 Under 30 Climate Change Makers Programme at Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful. She has a passion for people, places and environmental education having a background in conservation and sustainability working in Northern Ireland and Tenerife. Jenna has a Master’s in Sustainable Development and a BSc in Business Management from Queen’s University and is a Civics and Environmental Education Fellow with the North American Association for Environmental Education.
Founder, Global Shapers Las Palmas
Carlos Shanka is an award-winning sustainability enthusiast from the Canary Islands, Spain. From a young age, Carlos has been proactively involved in sustainability issues, and he unleashed his full potential at the University of Bristol, where he explored the interdimensional spheres of sustainability futures in greater depth and got involved in leadership roles, including the President of the Bristol University Sustainability Team and the Chair of the Sustainability Network.
In his three years as a student at the University of Bristol, representing c29 000 students, Carlos has explored the interdimensional spheres of sustainable development and forged strong working relationships with sustainability stakeholders. Building on his knowledge and growing his network has enabled him to make a significant impact, supporting with the ongoing development of the University’s sustainability policy and engaging peers in the issues around climate emergency. Prior to COP26, he launched the “Sustainability Champions” scheme to lead on embedding Education for Sustainable Development in the curriculum, a project that has been recruiting 15 students to work in a paid role in different Schools at the university for three years now. Conversely, his team successfully challenged the eight-figure endowment fund policy to divest from unethical investments and got awarded the Bristol SU’s Sustainability Award and Bristol Sustainable Futures Outstanding Award.
During his time at the UNDP Global Programme on Nature for Development, he worked on conducting research on nature-based solutions, co-designing high-level online courses for dozens of thousands of students and professionals from all around the world and launching campaigns to engage young people in nature. On an international level, he is part of several networks to champion sustainable futures, the Climate Reality Project as a Climate Leader, and the environmental-law charity Client Earth as a Co-Chair of the Next Generation Board. Passionate about climate diplomacy, he is growingly involved in UN Conferences such as COP26, SB56, COP27, SB58, or COP28, as well as representing his home country at the 16th and 17th UN Climate Change Conferences of Youth or co-organising the Local Conference of Youth Spain.
Currently, he is working on local youth environmental and social projects in the Canary Islands on the Global Shapers Las Palmas, a youth-in-sustainability hub he recently founded and taking part in environmental and climate negotiations. Named Student Sustainability Champion by the Green Gown Awards in 2022, the most prestigious award in the UK and Ireland within sustainability in the higher education sector and joined the 30 under 30 Class of 2023 of the North American Association for Environmental Education. According to the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Bristol, “Carlos is the very definition of a sustainability champion. He has achieved an outstanding amount in a short timeframe, especially the way he is upscaling his idea by more young people as leads in integrating sustainability into their disciplines.”
tudent & Environment and Climate Policy Advocate, University Of The West Indies
Student at University Of The West Indies, Environment and Climate Policy Advocate
*An interactive game that will be in the activity area until the 31st of January
Format: Game
Brief of the session: A youth-focused session aims to create an interactive space for myth-busting and sustainable knowledge generation among participants to engage youth actively, encouraging critical thinking, collaboration, and the exploration of sustainable practices and concepts.
President, SDG Youth Council
President, SDG Youth Council
Shahd Alkaabi, an advocate for sustainable development , holds a master's degree in international development from the University of Edinburgh. With a rich background that includes impactful roles at UN OCHA, UN Women, and UN Habitat, Shahd has not only contributed to the global efforts of these organizations but has also engaged in fieldwork in Vietnam and Spain.
As President of the SDG Youth Council, Shahd has been at the forefront of initiatives across all 17 SDGs, emphasizing the integration of environmentalism into societal facets. The council, under her leadership, played a significant role in COP28, highlighting the intersection of sustainable development with various environmental, social, and economic issues. Currently serving as a consultant at EY, Shahd leverages her rich experience to guide clients towards achieving social and environmental sustainability goals. Her commitment, combining academic knowledge and diverse professional experiences, aims to drive positive change in local and global contexts, echoing her dedication to environmental conservation and sustainable living.
Format: Workshop (1h)
Brief of the session: A workshop on the key concepts and skills in planning and delivering effective presentations and public speeches. Each participant will give a short speech. Videoed with their own phones for review and refinement at a later date.
Director, Speaking 4 the Planet
Director, Speaking 4 the Planet
Phil’s forty years in education span the breadth of formal and non-formal education: schools, TAFE, community colleges, universities and a wide range of community settings. He has held leadership roles in schools, government agencies, a national professional association and local and international NGOs. He has worked overseas in education, training and evaluation. His experience includes advocacy and community campaigning at local, state and federal levels; education in a humanitarian environment (Nauru); sustainability leadership courses for young people; professional development for teachers and trainers; and conference facilitation. Phil currently teaches in two teacher-training programs at Western Sydney University, and he runs his own program for schools, Speaking 4 the Planet, which is an Arts-based approach to sustainability education.
Format: Interactive Presentation
Brief of the session: A thought-provoking and informative online climate series that delves into the urgent issue of climate change. This series aims to deepen our understanding of the causes and consequences of climate change while highlighting the importance of individual and collective action. To learn amazing facts about our local marine wildlife corals, turtles, dolphins, seagrass, dugongs, mangroves, flamingos, whale sharks, sea snakes and more! Understand how you can support the global movement to protect at least 30% of the world’s lands, waters, and ocean by 2030, get the opportunity to learn about impactful fieldwork aimed at safeguarding and protecting areas to help ensure a healthy ocean and climate, understand why and how we can protect our Oceans.
Conservation Outreach and Citizen Science, Emirates Nature WWF
Student, American University of Sharjah
Conservation Outreach and Citizen Science, Emirates Nature WWF
Arabella heads up the Conservation Outreach & Citizen Science team at Emirates Nature-WWF, the local environmental charity that works in association with WWF, the global conservation organization. A marine biologist with excellent people skills, Arabella is known for her work with Hawksbill turtles as well as the enthusiasm with which she leads some of UAE’s most exciting environmental outreach programmes. Her primary focus at Emirates Nature-WWF is on harnessing the power of community, to create transformative impact that leads to an optimistic future for our planet and society. To this end, she steers the development and implementation of a wide range of hands-on experiences, engaging digital activities, dialogue, field volunteering and citizen science initiatives. These include Emirates Nature-WWF’s civil society mobilization programme Leaders of Change, which uses experiential learning to equip and inspire people of all ages and backgrounds to take action towards a net zero and nature positive future. As well as numerous citizen science initiatives which allow the general public to contribute to scientific research and conservation work. Arabella has also been instrumental in the development of the youth movement Connect with Nature which gives UAE youth access to learning and leadership opportunities, one-ofa- kind experiences, and thrilling adventures.
Arabella is no stranger to the Middle East; she grew up travelling the world, spending four years in Oman as a teenager. She studied marine biology at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland and began her career on a remote island in the Maldives, educating isolated communities about biology, sustainability and marine conservation. She served as the first “Resident Marine Biologist” at Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa, before moving to Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi where she developed a host of activities and initiatives that helped further the
understanding, appreciation and protection of nature on Saadiyat Island. While in this role, Arabella volunteered as the co-chair of the Abu Dhabi Chapter of the Emirates Natural History Group. A vocal advocate for nature in the UAE, she has been featured in local and international media outlets including The National, Gulf News, BBC, Abu Dhabi world, Abu Dhabi Classic
FM, Dubai Eye and Etihad magazine. Her story was recently featured in “Dreamers: Where Land Meets Sea," an imaginative storybook published by the UAE Pavilion at Expo. In 2018, she was voted the winner of the Pride of Abu Dhabi Leadership Award. At work and beyond, Arabella can be found in nature, camping, hiking or snorkelling across the UAE.
Arabella heads up the Conservation Outreach & Citizen Science team at Emirates Nature-WWF, the local environmental charity that works in association with WWF, the global conservation organization. A marine biologist with excellent people skills, Arabella is known for her work with Hawksbill turtles as well as the enthusiasm with which she leads some of UAE’s most exciting environmental outreach programmes. Her primary focus at Emirates Nature-WWF is on harnessing the power of community, to create transformative impact that leads to an optimistic future for our planet and society. To this end, she steers the development and implementation of a wide range of hands-on experiences, engaging digital activities, dialogue, field volunteering and citizen science initiatives. These include Emirates Nature-WWF’s civil society mobilization programme Leaders of Change, which uses experiential learning to equip and inspire people of all ages and backgrounds to take action towards a net zero and nature positive future. As well as numerous citizen science initiatives which allow the general public to contribute to scientific research and conservation work. Arabella has also been instrumental in the development of the youth movement Connect with Nature which gives UAE youth access to learning and leadership opportunities, one-ofa- kind experiences, and thrilling adventures.
Arabella is no stranger to the Middle East; she grew up travelling the world, spending four years in Oman as a teenager. She studied marine biology at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland and began her career on a remote island in the Maldives, educating isolated communities about biology, sustainability and marine conservation. She served as the first “Resident Marine Biologist” at Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa, before moving to Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi where she developed a host of activities and initiatives that helped further the
understanding, appreciation and protection of nature on Saadiyat Island. While in this role, Arabella volunteered as the co-chair of the Abu Dhabi Chapter of the Emirates Natural History Group. A vocal advocate for nature in the UAE, she has been featured in local and international media outlets including The National, Gulf News, BBC, Abu Dhabi world, Abu Dhabi Classic
FM, Dubai Eye and Etihad magazine. Her story was recently featured in “Dreamers: Where Land Meets Sea," an imaginative storybook published by the UAE Pavilion at Expo. In 2018, she was voted the winner of the Pride of Abu Dhabi Leadership Award. At work and beyond, Arabella can be found in nature, camping, hiking or snorkelling across the UAE.
Student, American University of Sharjah
a Biology graduate from the American University of Sharjah currently pursuing a Master's in Environmental Science and Engineering, brings hands-on expertise in marine conservation, specifically focusing on Hawksbill sea turtles in the UAE.
Format: Ice Break Activities
As we inaugurate the Youth conference activities, we take a few minutes to welcome all YEEC attendees in the 4 languages of the Congress (Arabic, English, Spanish and French) and share an overview about the youth involvement at the congress, providing them the information needed on how they can participate, sharing their ideas and expertise.
Project Manager - Sustainable Campus Initiative, Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi
Consultant, Environmental Information, Science & Outreach Management, Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi
Senior Manager, International Programs and EE 30 Under 30, North American Association for Environmental Education
Junior Executive Manager, Mohammed VI Foundation for Environmental Protection
Committee Member, Youth Environmental Education Conference
Committee Member, Youth Environmental Education Conference
Data Management and Results Monitoring & Reporting Officer, United Nations Resident Coordinator Office, UAE
Project Manager - Sustainable Campus Initiative, Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi
She first joined the EAD in 2018 as an Outreach Programme Co-ordinator, before promotion to Project Co-ordinator a year later. Since June 2020 she was promoted to Project Manager – Sustainable Campus initiative. With a strong passion for the environment and empowering the younger generation in working towards environmental sustainability, Aisha possesses excellent knowledge of environmental sustainability and is well versed in managing projects and planning programmes and events. As well as strong writing and communication skills, Aisha is a highly capable problem solver and adopts creative learning approaches to help EAD achieve maximum results.
Prior to joining the Agency, Aisha interned as an Environmental Scientist at URS Corporation, an AECOM Company before being appointed as Business Coordinator at Areed IT Services.
Aisha studied at Abu Dhabi University, completing a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, certification in Circular Economy and Sustainability strategies from Cambridge judge business school. Key projects that Aisha Managed is Baadr App.
Consultant, Environmental Information, Science & Outreach Management, Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi
Alba is a passionate social worker, entrepreneur, and inclusion advocate from Barcelona. During her more than 10 years of experience, Alba has promoted the inclusion of people of determination and people facing mental health challenges in Europe and in the UAE. Also, she provided guidance and training in mental and emotional wellbeing everywhere she put her foot on.
She believes that raising awareness and understanding about the importance of environment education will impact on communities’ wellbeing. EE is key for a healthy, respectful, tolerant, and inclusive community.
Senior Manager, International Programs and EE 30 Under 30, North American Association for Environmental Education
Nina Hamilton leads NAAEE's youth leadership initiatives and supports the Global Environmental Education Partnership's efforts to build capacity for EE across the globe. Before NAAEE, Nina worked on community-based conservation, land rights, gender equity, participatory research, and global network coordination in the U.S., Madagascar, and Gabon. Nina is particularly passionate about working across cultures to connect people with the resources they need to maximize their impact, while combining her interests in the environment, social equity, and youth engagement. Nina has a Master's in Environmental Management from Duke University and a Bachelor's in Biology from Kenyon College.
Junior Executive Manager, Mohammed VI Foundation for Environmental Protection
Ismail is a Junior Executive Manager at the Mohammed VI Foundation for Environmental Protection. He oversees the administrative support, production of analytical documents, logistical and financial support for the Mohammed VI Prize for the Climate and Sustainable Development. He is also coordinator of the African Youth Climate Hub in charge of its conceptualization and implementation. Ismail is a former analyst at the Moroccan Center for Strategic Studies and the African Federation for Strategic Studies. Ismail holds an M.A. in International Studies and Diplomacy with a concentration in Peace and Conflict Studies from Al Akhawayn University.
The Mohammed VI Foundation for Environmental Protection’s main mission is to educate and raise awareness on the environment and how to protect it. Aligning with HRH Princess Lalla Hasnaa belief that forging environmental awareness of tomorrow’s generation is the most powerful lever for change, the foundation’s main target are young individuals. The Foundation very early on set up programs aimed at the youngest, today, it manages seven Education for Sustainable Development programs: Eco-Schools, Young Reporters for the Environment, Global Schools, African Green Universities and Youth Education Network, African Youth Climate Hub, Digital Inclusion, Educational Tools.
Committee Member, Youth Environmental Education Conference
My name is Abdulla AlHaddadi, and I am a student at Al Ittihad National Private School. I have had an interest in the environmental field for a long time. My enjoyment in this field mainly stems from my participation in my school's Eco Club. I fell in love with the environment and ways to prevent it ever since. I've always chosen to participate in environment-related campaigns and activities. Most recently, I have joined my school's campaign to reduce the number of plastic bottles going to waste as a representative. I'll be taking part in raising awareness and planning activities to further interest students to participate in the campaign. Moreover, I'm also a student ambassador for the International Fund for Houbara Conservation. I represented them at ADIHEX and had the opportunity to share my knowledge of the bird and its importance in our culture and in nature. I hope that my participation in YEES will be a great learning experience for me. I wish to further expand my knowledge and successfully represent my country at the international congress as an Emirati youth. I aspire to turn useless into useful, and harmful into helpful. Whether it's by my participation in events to teach or campaigns to help preserve parts of nature, I wish to create a long-lasting impact on the environment and those around me.
Committee Member, Youth Environmental Education Conference
My name is Fatema Al Remeithi, a 10th grader at Al Ittihad National Private School in Abu Dhabi. As an active member of the school's Environmental Club, I have gained a deeper understanding of environmental issues and the importance of taking appropriate action. I am passionate about promoting sustainable living practices and raising awareness of environmental issues. In July 2022, I participated in The National Ambassadors Program, where I joined 18 other girls for a two-week visit to Oxford City in the United Kingdom. We were assigned a challenging project to create a product that addressed three of the Sustainable Development Goals, and our group decided to focus on saving life underwater while incorporating renewable energy and recycled materials. Despite the tight deadline, we delivered an impressive project that showcased our creativity and critical thinking skills. Another achievement of mine is participating in the Murshed Youth Rangers Programme, where I spent two weeks in Al Wathba Reserve in Abu Dhabi, learning about the ecosystem and participating in activities such as bird watching, habitat mapping, and animal tracking. I was able to develop valuable skills, such as teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving, and earned the title of youth ranger. These experiences have provided me with an opportunity to grow, learn, and develop as an individual, while also making a positive impact on the environment. I believe that every individual has the power to create change, and I am committed to continuing to promote sustainable living practices and to inspire others to do the same. By working together, we can build a brighter and more sustainable future for ourselves and future generations.
Data Management and Results Monitoring & Reporting Officer, United Nations Resident Coordinator Office, UAE
Saif Awadh is the Data Management and Results Monitoring & Reporting Officer at the United Nations Resident Coordinator Office in the UAE and covers the Youth and Climate Change portfolio for the office. He is one of the few Emirati international civil servants in the United Nations system and began his career as a Junior Professional Officer with the UN Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) in New York.
Format: Workshop (1hr)
Brief of the session: The Climate Fresk is a scientific and collaborative workshop, designed to educate about climate change. The objective is to connect 42 cards, highlighting the causes of consequences between them. The reasoning follows the scientific reports of the IPCC.
Student, Université Paris Saclay
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Student, Université Paris Saclay
My name is Diane de Savigny, and I am a French student eager to contribute a fairer and more sustainable world. I graduated 2023 with a Master’s degree in Engineering from Ecole Polytechnique (Paris), and I decided to complete my formation with Master of Economics applied to energy at Université Paris Saclay.
Passionate about science and logic, I followed an intensive training for two years after high school in the Classes Préparatoires. After that preparation, I took competitive entrance exams and joined the Ecole Polytechnique in Paris, one of the most prestigious Grandes Ecoles. During three years, I could continue developing my interest for science, and meanwhile got involved in lots of associative projects. As the treasurer of the Student Office, I was for example in charge of three employees and manages a 1 M€ budget. That was for sure a great experience !
Wishing to put my competences at the service of the general interest, I decided to continue my studies with a Master in Economics applied to Energy at University Paris Saclay, where I will graduate in 2024. This complete my scientific formation with finance and market analysis’ lessons. I will join the French Agency for Development in march 2024 for my end of studies internship, and I would like to pursue my career in the management of social or environmental projects.
Besides my studies, I enjoy playing tennis and was part of the tennis team at University. I also really enjoy being immersed in an environment I don’t know. I went in Germany in a host family for three months when I was in high school, and I spent five months in Barcelona in Spain during university. Each time, that was an occasion to learn the language, to discover the culture and to adapt. I really hope I will be able to travel in my future job.
The fifth of a family of eight children, I developed very early a liking for teaching. I used to help my younger siblings for their homework, and when I left home I gave lessons of mathematics, physics and informatics to high school and university students. Now, I teach French to migrants willing to start a new life in France, and I go to schools to lead workshops about climate change. I really want to convey all I was taught to those who haven’t been yet, especially about the environmental issue, which still is little-known for many. I think this Youth Environmental Education Conference is a great way to start!
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My name is Romane DEVAUX. I am a 25-years-old French woman, and I am very pleased to join you for this Youth Environmental Education Conference. I come from a family of aeronautical and aerospace engineers, with brilliant parents who value scientific knowledge and the lasting impact of education. As the climate crisis became more and more apparent, they played a fundamental role in my understanding of both the technical and behavioral challenges that we are facing.
I am currently completing a master’s degree in Economics for the Environment and Sustainable Development in Université Paris Saclay, through a double diploma program with my engineering school, Ecole Polytechnique. I had a distinctive journey in Higher Education. Although I am now graduating in economics, I entered the engineering world specializing in mathematics and physics. And before that, I did the first year of a bachelor in humanities ! I am
finding that this pluridisciplinary path is a strength both as an engineer and in environmental studies. It also fuels my curiosity about educational methods and subjects, and my appreciation for diversity and cultural differences.
I had the unique opportunity to teach and work with students as part of Ecole Polytechnique’s outreach programs. For six months, I served as a teaching assistant in a High School in the suburbs of Paris. It confirmed in me a definite taste for education, sharing knowledge and working on teaching material. As I pursue an higher education in environmental studies, I often come back to this experience when contemplating the challenges of environmental education.
My fellow classmate Diane and I will be joining the Youth Speaker Team as reporters. Our mission will be to witness and gather the thoughts, opinions and ideas that emerge in the Youth Environmental Education Conference, so that they can be reported and heard at the World Environmental Education Congress. I look forward to embracing this role, and I will try my best to be a sincere and trustworthy component in the channel of communication between the YEEC and the WEEC.
Format: Panel Discussion (1h)
Brief of the session: Group of youth talk about indigenous people’s role in the environmental education field. Discuss how Indigenous peoples’ contributions are essential in designing and implementing solutions to sustainability and ecosystem restoration issues, how EE communities learn from cultures and traditional practices and how values, indigenous knowledge, and culture can help connect people and create a better tomorrow, the connection of local wisdom and cultural practices with international agendas in the framework of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Integration of indigenous knowledge systems into environmental education.
COP 28 UAE Youth Climate Delegate,
Climate Resilience Education on Nature Based Solution Expert,
Founder, Green Girls Platform
Fintech Marketing Specialist, Lupiya, Zambia
, YNCCC (Youth Negotiations on Climate Change Conventions)
Young Climate Advocate,
COP 28 UAE Youth Climate Delegate,
Climate Resilience Education on Nature Based Solution Expert,
Soumya Ranjan Biswal, an environmentalist from Odisha, India, is renowned for his work in climate resilience education, coastal biodiversity conservation, and combatting wildlife trafficking. He has received numerous awards and recognition for his efforts, including being listed in the Limca Book of Records for Marine Turtle Conservation and Ocean Pollution Awareness. Soumya actively engages with communities, providing environmental education and leading youth-led conservation initiatives. His dedication and leadership have made him a prominent figure in environmental activism in India.
Founder, Green Girls Platform
Joy Hayley Munthali is a youth activist and a passionate environmental educator. She is the founder and current executive director of Green Girls Platform, a female-led initiative that works to address the unique challenges that girls and women face due to Climate Change in Malawi. Green Girls Platform is also the Co-founder of the We Trust You(th), a global initiative that was set up to challenge and support youth-focused donors and NGOs to partner and fund young people more intentionally and equitably.
Joy is also an advisor for the Global Resilience Fund, a Youth Sounding Board Member for the European Union delegation in Malawi. She enjoys voluntary work and working with the youth especially girls and young women to ensure that their rights in relation to climate change are fully realized. This is what inspired her zeal to set up a platform for girls and young women to combat Climate Change in Malawi.
Fintech Marketing Specialist, Lupiya, Zambia
Florence Jedidiah Mulenga is a dynamic individual with a multifaceted passion for Marketing, Environmental Sustainability, STEM Innovation, Health Care, and Youth Inclusion. Her diverse experiences and accomplishments reflect a commitment to driving positive change across various sectors.
One of Florence's notable achievements is her participation as a speaker at The United Nations Climate Change Conference in Dubai, where she shared insights on how STEM innovations can address the Triple Planetary Crisis: Climate Change, Pollution, and Biodiversity Loss (December 2023). This prestigious invitation by Emirates Nature-WWF underscores her expertise in environmental sustainability and STEM solutions.
Her impactful stint at the World Wide Fund For Nature (WWF), the world's largest conservation NGO, as the Conservation Administrative Support showcased her dedication to conservation efforts. In this role, she assisted the Chief Conservation Officer and played a key role in implementing the Youth Engagement Strategy, aiming to empower one million youths in conservation in Zambia by 2026 (February - December 2023).
As the Project Manager for The Zambian National STEM Foundation, Florence collaborated with influential organizations such as the United Nations Development Programme, First National Bank, and WWF. Her initiatives included designing the inaugural Girls in STEM against GBV Summit in Zambia and co-managing the 2nd All Africa STEM Awareness Conference in Botswana (June 2021 - November 2022).
Her impact on the international stage is evident in her invitation to speak at the Women in Engineering Conference in Johannesburg (South Africa) by ITC, highlighting her role in promoting STEM awareness among women and girls in Africa (November 2022).
In her volunteer capacity as Communications Assistant at When Females Lead, Florence initiated the 'Corporate Girls' Docu-Series, featuring success stories of women who have benefited from WFL scholarships. This project demonstrated her commitment to empowering young girls and promoting positive role models (June 2022 - January 2023).
Florence's academic prowess is evident in her Bachelor's degree in Pharmacy from The University of Zambia, where she conceptualized an innovative anti-asthma body spray concept. Her seven awards, including recognition from the government of the Republic of Zambia, attest to her excellence and contributions to pharmaceutical care (2017 - 2022).
Her skill set spans Corporate Marketing & Branding, Project Management, Event Management, and Pharmaceutical Care. Florence channels her passion for STEM Innovation, Environmental Sustainability, Youth Inclusion, and Health Care into her coaching business, where she mentors individuals on Personal Branding, Public Speaking, and Marketing Strategies.
Complementing her impactful work, Florence runs a YouTube channel, providing a platform to share her insights, experiences, and expertise. In essence, Florence Jedidiah Mulenga is a catalyst for positive change, leveraging her diverse skill set and passion to make a lasting impact in the realms of marketing, sustainability, STEM, and youth empowerment.
, YNCCC (Youth Negotiations on Climate Change Conventions)
A 25-year-old graduate of Addis Ababa. For the past 3 years, he has been leading YNCCC (Youth Negotiations on Climate Change Conventions), a youth group based at Addis Ababa University. Partnering with indigenous communities, I strive to empower them as citizen scientists. We collaborate on gathering vital weather and climate data while enriching their knowledge through data science education.
Also, I'm honoured to be part of a remarkable project supporting the Toda people, an indigenous tribe of only 1,200 members. Steeped in rich ecological knowledge, the Today's face challenges navigating the complexities of modern environmental issues. To bridge this gap, I'm collaborating with them to develop immersive environmental education programs.
Young Climate Advocate,
Alinaitwe Jotham is a remarkable Young Climate Advocate and journalism, media, and public relations practitioner.
Jotham serves as the youngest Youth Prime Minister for the 6th National Youth Parliament, where he actively contributes to public leadership, Climate Advocacy and represents the voices of the youth. Recently he has been selected for the prestigious East Africa Public Leadership Academy Fellowship with FutureElect, An award Winner with European Union in Uganda for Frontline youth in fighting Climate change in 2022.
Jotham's passion for climate activism is truly inspiring. He firmly believes that collective action is crucial in addressing the pressing issue of climate change and safeguarding the planet for future generations. As the Founder of Green Villages initiatives, he has dedicated himself to empowering local communities through climate education, fostering awareness and understanding of environmental issues.
He is also an active member of two prominent organizations, Fridays for Future and Youth Go Green Uganda. His dedication to these causes has led him to sit on various advisory boards, including the Climate Inclusion Network in Uganda, where he contributes his knowledge and expertise to shape effective policies.
Format: Panel Discussion (30min) and Interactive activity (30min)
Brief of the session: 30-min panel discussion on what climate anxiety is and how we can address it within the environmental education programs. Addressing climate anxiety and understanding the psychology behind it.
Psychologist, Researcher, and Past Professor,
Community Impact Manager, The Climate Tribe
Psychologist, Researcher, and Past Professor,
Registered Psychologist (Canada), Researcher and past Professor with 20 years of experience in counselling, mental health, education, and primary healthcare. She has lived in the UAE for 18 years doing organizational and educational consulting, as well as teaching and research in the field of happiness and wellbeing. Her expertise is in positive psychology and the empirical strategies used to attain greater subjective wellbeing; this has been the core of her expertise for more than 15 years.
Community Impact Manager, The Climate Tribe
Noor Awad is an environmental enthusiast with a passion for for education, exploration and environment. With over 8+ years experience, she specializes in impactful climate events and educational workshops in the MENA region. She uses her project and events management background to engage communities and enable change. She is currently the Community Impact Manager at The Climate Tribe.
Format: Presentation
Secretary General, The Club of Rome, Spain
Secretary General, The Club of Rome, Spain
Carlos Alvarez Pereira is a senior professional combining more than 30 years of experience in research and innovation, entrepreneurship, and business management, with a passion for complexity thinking and transdisciplinarity. He is keen on exploring the cultural transformation required to cross the threshold towards equitable human well-being within a healthy biosphere.
Format: Workshop
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Emirati diplomat, who has worked on multiple assignments, including supervisory roles, under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. Her latest project involves assisting the UAE in its efforts to host COP28.
Previously, Sara spent nearly a year in a company dealing with aerial, hydrographic, and land surveying, and completed four months of practical training at Abu Dhabi Sewerage Services Company.
Sara graduated from the United Arab Emirates University with a major in GIS and Remote Sensing and a minor in Leadership and Communication. She also holds a diploma from the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy.
Format: Global Café
Brief of the session: https://theworldcafe.com/key-concepts-resources/world-cafe-method/
Objectives: the sessions aim to bring together youth to discuss on the given topic. Also to raise awareness, foster understanding, and inspire action towards addressing environmental challenges and promoting sustainability.
o Table 1: Nature & biodiversity: Reham Zia
o Table 2: Air Quality: Oriol Teixido Escote
o Table 3: Climate Change: Mogesh Sabapathy
o Table 4: Environmental Education: Arpan Singh
Student Services Coordinator,
Environmental Activist and Social Media Content Creator,
Youth Climate Advocate and Co-founder, ClimX
Youth Officer, United Nations Environment Programme, UNEP India Office
Student Services Coordinator,
A dynamic professional currently serving as a Student Services Coordinator with a unique twist—her passion lies in environmental conservation and mangrove restoration.
Environmental Activist and Social Media Content Creator,
Sara Constantino is a young environmental activist and social media content creator from Colombia, advocating for a sustainable present and restorative future. She grew up with parents working in conservation in one of the most biodiverse countries in the world and nature was always at the center of every decision made at home. She studied industrial design engineering and uses communication and marketing skills to help bring attention to the multiple crises we phase and solutions to adapt in a changing world. She talks about the climate crisis, biodiversity loss, food systems and pollution.
She works with indigenous communities in their empowerment through solar power as a tool for equity around education, health, food and water security, telecommunications and conservation with Givepower foundation. Also within a growing digital community on sustainable actions and solutions around diet, consumption and waste and was ranked 50th in the top 100 best content creators of Colombia in 2023.
Environmental education is a very big part of what she does as the goal with social media is to reach and educate different people. She uses social media as a tool for transformation, making ideas and information more accessible.