We are excited to announce the launch of the Youth-led Climate Action Fellowship Program, which brings together 14 fellows from four different countries- India, Philippines, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, each from diverse backgrounds such as advocacy, journalism, social sector and academia. These fellows represent a wide range of geographical, academic, and professional disciplines, adding to the rich diversity of the program.
The fellowship officially began with an orientation session held on the 26th of September, where the fellows got to know each other through interactive ice-breaking activities. They were introduced to the fellowship’s objectives, the program’s structure, and the journey they will embark on together over the next three months.
Throughout this period, the fellows will be immersed in a dynamic learning experience. They will participate in sessions that cover a range of crucial topics, including the nuances of climate change, the Global South perspective on Climate Change, the exploration of global climate policies, and the intersection of gender and climate change. Additionally, they will examine locally-led adaptation efforts and the importance of, climate governance in cities. These fellows will be capacitated in Participatory Research, tools and methodology and will conduct participatory research with a community of their choice to examine the impact of extreme weather on their lives.
This three-month virtual initiative is designed to empower South Asian youth to play an active role in the climate change discourse by collecting detailed data from communities most affected by climate change—despite contributing very little to the problem themselves. Through participatory research methodologies and engagement with key stakeholders, the fellows will learn how to interact with local communities and decision-makers alike. With guidance from experts on climate change and urban environments, they will conduct research and share their findings with a broader audience to influence ongoing climate conversations.
The program aims to provide these young leaders with the skills needed to engage meaningfully in climate discussions. By training them to collect and analyse information from the most affected communities, the fellowship will generate valuable insights from the Global South to contribute to the broader climate change discourse. The knowledge and evidence collected will be shared with stakeholders to inform policy decisions and actions.
Moreover, the fellowship is a platform for South Asian youth to engage actively in climate action, helping to elevate their role in addressing this global challenge. By amplifying the perspectives of the Global South, the program ensures that these unique challenges are represented in global climate discourse.
This fellowship marks an important step toward empowering the youth and ensuring that their communities’ voices are included in shaping climate solutions for the future.
