Tyeisha Emmanuel, a member of the Anguilla National Youth Ambassador Corps, represented the island at a regional climate action conference in Grenada.
The 3rd Caribbean Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) Investment Forum took place from 31 March to 2 April.
Organised by the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), its aim is to accelerate climate action in the region.
The event featured a panel discussion entitled, ‘Bridging the gaps between young people and policymakers’.
Emmanuel participated in the discussion alongside three other young leaders from the eastern Caribbean – Yusuf Stafford, Aquanje Robinson and Kezia St Brice.
She emphasised the urgent need for youth voices in policymaking on climate issues, a statement from the Department of Youth and Culture said on 8 April.
In a Facebook post following the event, Emmanuel said: “Children and youth are at the forefront and are disproportionately affected when it comes to climate change.
“However, we are often left out of the discussions and decision-making processes that shape our future.
“We highlighted plausible solutions to combat the challenges faced.
“For we don’t want to be mere beneficiaries; we want to be partners, co-creating solutions for climate resilience and climate action within our region.”
The Department of Youth and Culture said in its statement that it is proud of Emmanuel’s leadership and commitment to youth engagement in shaping the future.
“Let us keep supporting our young leaders as they advocate for a brighter tomorrow,” it read.
