Global Youth Climate Change is an initiative led by the South Korea Ministry of Foreign Affairs since 2020 to raise awareness among international youth about climate challenges and countermeasures from the perspectives of youth. This year, the event was held in Bogota, Colombia from September 20 to 23, where some KDI School alumni participated, among them Vivian Landi, who has been actively involved in environmental initiatives. She shared with us her experience in this important event.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and what motivated you to get involved in climate change activism?

I'm Vivian from Brazil, a 2021 Master of Development Policy (MDP) graduate. My journey into climate change activism began in my teenage years when I cultivated a profound passion for sustainability. As a young leader within a pioneering youth group, I spearheaded activities not commonly practiced in my country, such as recycling initiatives, all in the pursuit of environmental responsibility. Throughout my university years, I seamlessly fused my dedication to sustainability with my fervor for human rights, with a particular focus on the formidable challenges faced by climate refugees. However, the pivotal moment that truly marked my transformation into an activist occurred in 2014 when I embraced a vegetarian lifestyle. This personal commitment prompted reevaluating my choices and ignited a quest to explore avenues for reducing my carbon footprint. Since that transformative period, I've actively immersed myself in diverse initiatives to address the challenges posed by climate change. Prior to my enriching experience at KDI, I contributed my efforts to a local government role, concentrating on human rights issues. This journey also led me to collaborate with local communities in a preservation program, enhancing my understanding of environmental concerns at the grassroots level. Participation in a training led by Al Gore's Climate Reality Leader added another layer to my activism, connecting me with a diverse network of passionate individuals dedicated to addressing climate issues. This collective experience has shaped my unwavering commitment to climate change activism and fueled my dedication to shaping a more sustainable and inspiring future. Plus, being at KDI helped me dive deeper into the subject and solidify my passion for positively impacting the environment. A highlight of my journey at KDI was getting the most votes for the KDIS Sustainability award during my graduation gala—a moment that filled me with immense pride.

Can you provide a brief overview of your application process, your role, and participation in the "Global Youth Climate Change 2023" event?

I first learned about the Global Youth Climate Change event when I stumbled upon a post by a KDI alum. Intrigued by the prospect, I eagerly expressed my passion for climate activism and highlighted my hands-on experience working with local communities. I wanted to move beyond being just an activist and genuinely understand the complexities of the issues we face. That's when I decided to apply. I am particularly proud to have been selected as the representative for Brazil. The participants were divided into six groups, and I found myself in Group 6, focusing on the critical theme of deforestation and water security. Our journey began in Seoul in July 2022, where we developed our action plan. Following that, we had monthly meetings to track the progress of our plan's development, culminating in the presentation of our results last September in Colombia. In addition to our main activities, we also had the opportunity to participate in the P4G in Colombia, engaging with different important actors from various industries to discuss sustainability. This experience allowed us to broaden our perspective, connect with key stakeholders, and further advocate for our action plan. Being part of this initiative has been a learning experience, and I am excited to continue contributing to the cause of climate action, representing Brazil on the global stage.

As you mentioned, you have been working on an action plan and policy proposals. Can you share more about this initiative and its potential impact?

During our involvement with the initiative, our team focused on a crucial action plan to raise awareness about the deforestation of paramos, which serves as an essential water source for diverse countries in Latin America. This initiative held particular significance, especially during our time in Colombia, where we had the unique opportunity to engage with local activists and learn from their experiences. Seeing the diversity of approaches within our group was inspiring, with each team presenting their distinct action plans. This meant that we collectively brought forth six initiatives, all driven by the passion and creativity of youth participants. Some of these initiatives took the form of magazines, apps, and various other mediums, reflecting the young advocates' innovative spirit. The diversity in our approaches ensures a multifaceted strategy to address the issue, making our collective impact more comprehensive and influential.

Are there any plans or opportunities for continued collaboration with the organizations or individuals you connected with at the event? 

The collaborative spirit within the Global Youth Climate Change event has opened up exciting prospects for ongoing engagement with the organizations and individuals we connected with during the event. One notable avenue for continued collaboration is the opportunity for participants from this edition to actively contribute to policy proposals and research and take on leadership roles for the next cohort. This ensures a seamless transition of knowledge and experiences, fostering a sustained commitment to climate action. It's particularly gratifying to mention that this edition saw the participation of five KDI students, creating a strong bond within our group. Beyond the academic connection, these relationships have extended to meaningful friendships rooted in our shared values and commitment to fighting for climate justice and against climate change. The realization that we cannot fight this battle alone has been a prevailing theme throughout the event, emphasizing the importance of collective effort and collaboration. Looking ahead, these connections serve as a solid foundation for future initiatives and endeavors, amplifying our impact and creating a network of like-minded individuals dedicated to making a positive change in climate action.

As a participant in "Global Youth Climate Change 2023," what key learnings or advice would you offer to young individuals looking to actively engage in climate change activism?

One crucial lesson is recognizing that our daily actions as individuals matter significantly in the larger context of climate change. Our choices play a vital role in promoting sustainability. As KDI students and public officers, we have the added responsibility to raise awareness that climate change is not a future problem but a pressing issue today. It is affecting the most vulnerable communities disproportionately, making urgent action imperative. It is essential to take on a proactive role in holding industries accountable for their environmental impact. Authentic advocacy for responsible practices and sustainable initiatives is crucial for shaping a genuinely eco-conscious industry landscape. Instead of mere greenwashing, we must demand tangible actions and commitments from industries to ensure a meaningful contribution to environmental sustainability. Moreover, it's crucial to emphasize that everyone can play a part in addressing climate change. Small, everyday actions collectively make a significant impact. Whether reducing single-use plastic, promoting energy efficiency, or supporting sustainable products, these efforts contribute to a positive change. Lastly, I recommend taking every opportunity for learning and personal responsibility. Stay informed about climate issues, engage in discussions, and continuously seek ways to reduce your carbon footprint. Climate activism requires a collective effort, and by embracing a sense of responsibility for our planet, we contribute to building a more sustainable and resilient future for all.