The climate crisis presents a multifaceted challenge that requires collaboration across various fields and individuals. It cannot be effectively addressed by one person or a single discipline alone. Given its intersection with pressing issues like health, housing, transport, and poverty, resolving this crisis requires champions and advocates from diverse career fields. The Youth Climate Collective is committed to educating and empowering young people with the necessary skills to become climate leaders across a wide range of disciplines. This will be accomplished through events, workshops and mentoring for rangatahi to engage in impactful climate action and justice, while also offering a platform for them to express their concerns and perspectives on the climate crisis. By fostering active participation and amplifying rangatahi voices, the Collective strives to drive meaningful change and address the urgent challenges posed by the climate crisis.
In May 2023, we successfully organised The Climate Action Conference, an event focused on empowering youth to take action on environmental issues. With the participation of 180 young attendees, 14 environmental organisations, and distinguished guest speakers such as Sir Ashley Bloomfield, we made a significant impact. This event was made possible through the support of various funding sources, including Auckland Council, Waitematā Local Board, Foundation North, and the New Zealand National Commission for UNESCO.