28 Feb 2023
“Every COP that I’ve been to has shaped my thinking, and in a really global kind of way. I’m working in a local context, but it’s always nice to look at what’s happening at the global level and try to translate that to the work I’m doing. I always felt like there was a disconnect between what is happening at the top, which at the highest level is the COP, and on the ground.” Adrian Leitoro 2022 Drylands Restoration Steward and the of Founder, Nature and People as One (NAPO)
26 Jan 2023
“The past year has flown by for me, but looking back, my heart is filled with gratitude, joy and hope for the future. Being the GLF’s 2022 Forest Restoration Steward has contributed enormously to these fond memories. Since I was officially announced as a Restoration Steward on the International Day of Forests (21 March) last year 2022 (super timely), my days have been filled with the new opportunities and program activities that came along.” Eva Makandi (Kandi), 2022 Forest Restoration Steward and the Founder of Light on a Hill Organization (LOAH)
20 Dec 2022
“We need to enhance community by building really strong trust with communities and governments that restoration is for our good, and for the good of the environment.” Camille Rivera GLFx Mindanao Chapter Coordinator, 2021 Wetlands Restoration Steward and the Co-founder of Oceanus Conservation
From speakers and moderators to volunteers and participants, in person and online, young scientists, restorers, artists, educators and so many others raised their voices for climate justice and future visions rooted in self-determination. We’re deeply grateful for everyone’s contribution, and we’d like to especially thank the Youth in Landscapes Initiative, the GLF Youth Project Teams, our Restoration Stewards, the GLFx chapters, and all other partners who helped make this event the success that it was.
It may be more obvious than ever: young people hold the key to addressing today’s environmental challenges. From grassroots initiatives to international platforms, young leaders are stepping up to shape new visions for Earth. Our voices are loud, our ideas are innovative, and our actions are impactful.